Another win, another clean sheet, another Diego Costa goal – some things never change.
Chelsea extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to nine points with a hard fought 1-0 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
In a first-half that was relatively equal in terms of chances created, Chelsea broke the deadlock with just two minutes until the break.
Costa, who is now suspended for the game against Bournemouth having picked up his fifth yellow card, latched onto a Cesar Azpilicueta cross to loop a header past a poorly positioned Wayne Hennessey.
Crystal Palace then started the second-half on top, as they went in search of a much-needed equaliser.
But this dominance was countered to perfection by the introduction of Cesc Fabregas, as Chelsea moved to a three-man central midfield.
Fabregas created numerous chances for the Blues to increase their lead, with both Marcos Alonso and N’Golo Kante coming close.
Palace continued in vain to try and find an equaliser but were met with stern resistance from the impressive Chelsea backline. Alonso hit the underside of the bar with a late free-kick, but the game would end 1-0 to the visitors.
Midfield anchorman N’Golo Kante will also be missing from the Boxing Day match against Bournemouth, having picked up his fifth booking of the season.
Here are my player ratings from the game…
