Two former Chelsea players were on target for Southampton, but a Diego Costa brace ensured that Chelsea claimed a vital victory in their Premier League title charge.
Chelsea started the game as brightly as they ended Saturday’s win over Tottenham, and took the lead within five minutes as Eden Hazard fired the ball across Fraser Forster from a Costa cutback.
Southampton did, however, control possession for large parts in the first half and got their equaliser through former Blues defensive midfielder Oriel Romeu who tapped in Manolo Gabbiadini’s shot come cross from close range.
But right on the stroke of half-time Gary Cahill powered in a header to restore Chelsea’s lead, and show everyone exactly why he is captain – leading by example with a fine finish.
The second Chelsea goal seemed to propel Antonio Conte’s men onto the front foot in the second-half, and it was not long until Costa put the Blues in control with a much needed headed goal – the Spaniard’s first goal in six appearances and his 50th in the Premier League.
Costa added another goal to his tally on 89 minutes, when he collected a Pedro one-two before shooting low into the net. There was still enough time however for another former Chelsea player and Champions League winner Ryan Bertrand to grab a consolation goal for Southampton, as he rose well to head past Thibaut Courtois.
The win sends Chelsea seven points clear with a game more to their name.
