Ivorian striker Didier Drogba scored The Blues' goal on 75 minutes, after meeting Ricardo Qauresma's cross with a swerving low shot past David James.

The win ensures Chelsea's second position in the Premiership table with 58 points, four points less and two games more than leaders Manchester United.

The victory also maintains Guus Hiddink's hundred percent league record since the Dutch manager took over following Luiz Felipe Scolari's sacking in February.

Third-placed Liverpool kept the pressure on both Chelsea and United by beating Sunderland 2-0 at Anfield.

French striker Davide N'Gog and Israeli midfielder Yossi Benayoun hit the net each to secure the home win for Rafael Benitez's side.

The Reds are joined-second with Chelsea on 58 points.

In another game, Arsenal came back to winning ways with a convincing 3-1 win at West Bromwich Albion.

A brace from Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner on 3 and 44 minutes, in addition to a Kolo Toure goal secured The Gunners their first league win in six games.

Chris Brunt scored West Brom's consolation from a long-range free-kick.