Chelsea 2 Newcastle 0
Diego Costa’s 15th goal of a prolific campaign helped Chelsea secure another home victory as they moved out on their own at the top of the Premier League once more.
Newcastle dominated the first half, with the recalled Petr Cech making fine saves from Yoann Gouffran and the lively Remy Cabella, while Moussa Sissoko hit the post.
But the Magpies profligacy cost them as Oscar struck against the run of play just before half-time, converting Branislav Ivanovic’s centre after a quickly taken corner.
And a much-improved Chelsea were firmly on top in the second half, with Costa’s crisp shot applying the finishing touch to a fine move involving Eden Hazard and the influential Oscar.
Jose Mourinho sprang a surprise with his team selection, giving Kurt Zouma his first Premier League start at the expense of Gary Cahill and bringing Cech back in for the benched Thibaut Courtois.
And Newcastle’s pace troubled the rejigged Chelsea backline early on, with Cech providing a reminder of his quality as he kept out Gouffran’s free-kick and Cabella’s drive.
Sissoko hit the outside of the post after a surging run into space left behind by Cesar Azpilicueta, who pulled up injured before being replaced.
But Newcastle’s pressure was all in vain as they switched off at a Chelsea corner. Willian took it quickly to Ivanovic, and he picked out Oscar, who drilled home.
Mourinho’s men were much sharper in the second half and Costa’s goal on 58 minutes provided Chelsea with a comfortable cushion.
The Spain striker helped start the move by closing down to prevent a Newcastle clearance, and finished it after Hazard and Oscar passed their way through the Magpies defence.
Costa went close again after a dynamic run across the box took him past a couple of defenders, but his shot was deflected over the bar by Fabricio Coloccini’s outstretched leg.
The victory – Chelsea’s 10th in as many home league games this season – coupled with Manchester City’s 1-1 draw at Everton meant the Blues moved two points ahead of the champions at the top of the table.
Chelsea: Cech; Ivanovic, Zouma, Terry, Azpilicueta (Filipe Luis 37); Matic, Fabregas; Willian, Oscar (Ramires 78), Hazard; Costa (Remy 83).
Subs not used: Courtois, Cahill, Mikel, Drogba.
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This post was last modified on 10/01/2015