The England winger, who was given a rare start since returning from injury, connected with Didier Drogba's low cross to poke home in the 29th minute.

Chelsea will have now to protect their slender lead when they face Liverpool at Anfield Road on Tuesday if they are to fly to Athens for the competition's final on May 16th.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez surprisingly included Dutch winger Boudewijn Zenden in the starting line-up and fielded Dirk Kuyt and Craig Bellamy upfront.

Frank Lampard had the first chance for the hosts after eight minutes when his low shot from close-range was brilliantly blocked by keeper Jose Reina after being fed by Didier Drogba.

The Premiership chasers continued their complete domination until breaking the deadlock in the 29th minute.

Ricardo Carvalho collected the ball in his own half and sent a superb through pass to Drogba in the right-flank before the Ivorian hitman out-muscled Daniel Agger and laid off the ball to the onrushing Cole, who made no mistake despite Alvaro Arbeloa's attempt to clear the ball.

Chelsea keeper Petr Cech demonstrated why he receives special praise from manager Jose Mourinho after a wonderful save from Steven Gerrard's powerful volley in the 53rd minute ensured the hosts stayed in front.

Reina responded nine minutes from time when he dived to parry away Lampard's fierce drive.