Chelsea are BPL Christmas champions

ALL content used in this not-for-profit blog remain the property of their respective owners.
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30474063

Chelsea ensured they will be top of the Premier League on Christmas Day after a hard-fought victory over Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium.

John Terry's header inside two minutes kick-started a spiky contest that threatened to spill over at times.

Yet for all Stoke's desire, Chelsea always looked in control and deservedly doubled their lead through Cesc Fabregas's scuffed finish.

Steven Nzonzi had Stoke's best chance but his deflected shot was well saved.

Victory took Chelsea three points clear of second-placed Manchester City.

The only blight on Chelsea's night came with a late injury to Eden Hazard, who limped off after appearing to injure an ankle in a tangle with Jonathan Walters.

Stoke's only win in 12 previous Premier League meetings with Chelsea came in this fixture last season, when they won 3-2 thanks to a last-minute winner from Oussama Assaidi, but a lack of midfield quality dimmed hopes of a repeat.