Fernando Torres's first hat-trick since September 2009 helped Chelsea on their way to a 6-1 victory over London rivals Queens Park Rangers this afternoon.
It took the Blues just 48 seconds to break the deadlock at Stamford Bridge. England striker Daniel Sturridge beat his marker on the edge of the area before curling an effort beyond the reach of Paddy Kenny in the away goal.
Their advantage was doubled in the 13th minute courtesy of captain John Terry, who rose above Clint Hill to guide a corner from Juan Mata into the net.
Torres claimed his first of the encounter six minutes later when he rounded Kenny to slot the ball into an unguarded net.
By half-time the Spanish international had netted Chelsea's fourth as he capitalised on a misunderstanding between Kenny and defender Nedum Onuoha to drill the ball in from a narrow angle.
Torres went on to complete his trio of goals in the 64th minute. Compatriot Mata produced a through pass for the striker, who guided the ball past Kenny with a low effort.
The home side refused to take their foot off the gas and added a sixth to their tally with ten minutes remaining courtesy of substitute Florent Malouda, who found the back of the net from eight yards out.
Struggling QPR did manage pull a goal back in the 84th minute through Djibril Cisse following a cross from Onuoha.
The victory has moved Chelsea up to fifth in the Premier League table.
Liam Apicella
