Chelsea missed the chance to consolidate fourth spot in the Premier League in a 0-0 draw with Norwich on Saturday afternoon.

The Blues started the match the stronger but it was the home side who came closer to breaking the deadlock in the opening stages.

Steve Morison almost found the opener after seven minutes but Ramires got a block in when the former Millwall striker was about to pull the trigger.

The Canaries continued to enjoy the better of the chances and Grant Holt fired wide after nine minutes, with Petr Cech seemingly beaten.

Chelsea did grow into the half, however, and but for a smart save from John Ruddy, Fernando Torres would have found the corner after 27 minutes.

Chances were few and far between for the away side despite their possession, and it was Norwich who continued to look the most likely.

Chelsea started the second period with more purpose and Juan Mata so nearly slipped Ramires in after 57 minutes, but Ruddy was quick off his line to gather the ball.

Torres missed a golden chance on the hour mark to fire Chelsea into the lead, but he placed wide from barely five yards out.

Raul Meireles was next to go close for the away side after 68 minutes when he fired over from the edge of the area.

Chelsea continued to search for the winner in the latter stages but to no avail, with Norwich holding on to secure a welcome point.

Norwich will look to continue their solid recent form when they travel to Sunderland on Wednesday, while Chelsea travel to Swansea a day earlier.