Chelsea’s lead at the top of the EPL was reduced to two points as they failed to break down Hull City at the KC Stadium.

The Tigers belied their lowly status with a tigerish display against a Chelsea side which did not produce enough intensity to merit victory.

Star striker Didier Drogba announced his return from a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations with a trademark free-kick before half-time, equalising Steven Mouykolo’s 30^th minute header.

But the goal failed to inspire the Blues’ expected second-half push. And the hosts were well-worth their share of the spoils.

Hull keeper Boaz Myhill was tested early on by a shot from Frank Lampard and a diving header from Michael Ballack.

But Hull took the lead when an unmarked Mouyokolo headed home past a stranded Petr Cech from a Stephen Hunt right-wing corner.

Controversy surrounded Drogba’s equaliser after he drove the ball low past Myhill’s left-hand from the edge of the box, as a number of Hull players wrongly believed the free-kick was indirect.

Myhill denied substitute Daniel Sturridge with the best of his second-half saves and Tigers’ centre-back Anthony Gardner headed over what could have been a late winner when unmarked six yards out.