Chelsea strengthened their lead at the top of the Premier League table on Saturday with a narrow 1-0 win over Stoke City at Stamford Bridge.
By no means a vintage display from the Blues, they earned the three points thanks to Ashley Cole's 84th-minute strike.
Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the match as Stoke once again left West London without a point.
Match Statistics:
Chelsea:
Shots: 17
On target: 9
Possession: 51%
Corners: 13
Fouls: 12
Stoke:
Shots: 13
On target: 6
Possession: 49%
Corners: 3
Fouls: 15
Was the result fair?
Based on possession, yes. Chelsea dominated most of the game but failed to create many meaningful chances. Meanwhile, Stoke defended with great determination and were also dangerous on the break. However, the Blues kept plugging away and were rewarded with Ashley Cole's late goal.
Chelsea's performance
The Blues had plenty of the ball but lacked dynamism in the final third. However, they were persistent and their patience paid off in the final five minutes. Not pretty but title challenges are all about the 1-0 wins, aren't they?
Stoke's performance
It was typical Stoke in many ways as a robust defensive display was complemented by some quick breaks. However, they refused to consistently lump it forward and played some decent passing football on the deck. Manager Tony Pulis is sure to be delighted with the account that his side gave of themselves if not the result.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Michael Kightly epitomised everything that Stoke were about at Stamford Bridge. Involved in most of his side's counter attacks, he also defended doggedly when called upon, covering every blade of grass on the pitch in the process.
Biggest gaffe
Jonathan Walters had a wonderful opportunity to give Stoke the lead after 20 minutes but somehow guided his header onto the crossbar from all of six yards when finding the net was surely easier. Needless to say it proved costly.
Referee's performance
Michael Oliver had three penalty appeals to deal with for the hosts and was right not to give any of them. Whistle-happy on occasions, he was correct with most of his decisions.
What next?
Chelsea: Manager Roberto Di Matteo is sure to give some of the club's youngsters a chance when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday at the Bridge.
Stoke: The Potters have the chance to get back to winning ways next Saturday when they host a vulnerable-looking Swansea City at the Britannia Stadium.
Jack Prescott
