Latest: Chelsea 1 Burnley 0 – Blues within sight of another victory

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Branislav Ivanovic’s fourth goal in six games kept Chelsea on course for victory at Stamford Bridge.

The right-back turned the ball in from close range after a sublime run and cross from the outstanding Eden Hazard to earn a deserved half-time lead.

But despite dominating play, having two strong penalty claims turned down and creating numerous excellent positions, a second goal has so far eluded the Premier League leaders.

Chelsea, chasing a 12th home win in 13 league games, made a decent start and could have gone ahead within five minutes.

But Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton did well to tip over Juan Cuadrado’s header from a Filipe Luis cross.

At the other end, Thibaut Courtois made a routine save from a spectacular long-range Ashley Barnes strike.

However, the majority of attacking threat was coming from the home side.

Cesc Fabregas, playing in a deeper role to accommodate Cuadrado, was dictating play and allowing the Chelsea to dominate possession.

And after Ivanovic’s opener, Oscar had a shot saved from the edge of the box, Ivanovic was denied what looked a clear spot-kick by the outstretched arm of Michael Kightly.

And Diego Costa also claimed a spot-kick after going down under a challenge from Jason Shackell.

Ivanovic was still providing as big a goal threat as anyone after the interval, his near-post header from a Fabregas corner almost teeing up Nemanja Matic.

Costa was then through one-on-one after a perfectly timed Hazard pass but his finish was not convincing and Heaton was able to make a comfortable save.

Chelsea: Courtois; Ivanovic, Zouma, Terry, Filipe Luis; Matic, Fabregas; Cuadrado (Willian 63), Oscar, Hazard; Costa.
Subs: Cech, Azpilicueta, Cahill, Ramires, Drogba, Remy.

 

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