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Andriy Shevchenko and Frank Lampard scored two goals as Chelsea homed in on a fantastic three points and a 2-0 victory over relegation doomed Sunderland. Avram Grant will be delighted with moving up to third spot in the Premiership.
Chelsea started with Andriy Shevchenko in place of injured Didier Drogba who has undergone a successful knee operation upfront while first choice keeper Petr Cech failed to recover in time from a calf injury.
Chelsea went into the breather with a one goal cushion thanks to a superb header by Andriy Shevchenko in the 23rd minute of play.
In the very 1st minute itself, Chelsea and England international Ashley Cole sent in a first time cross in the rival territory but the Black Cats keeper Ward Darren punched the ball to safety before any damage could be done.
Four minutes later Salomon Kalou outsmarted his marker and leaped high to head Joe Cole corner but unfortunately it hit the upright and travelled back into play.
Sunderlandâs Whitehead was lucky to gain a goal kick after the referee overruled his tackle on Shaun Wright-Phillips inside the 18-yard box.
Shevchenko sent the Stamford Bridge supporters into raptures in the 23rd minute; Brazilian winger Belletti long ranger found Kalou on the left flank whose crisp cross saw unmarked Shevchenkoâs diving header give no chance to the outstretched hands of the keeper.
In the second half, Sunderland started brightly but failed to convert the chances that came in their way inside the rivalâs goal area.
Just when Sunderland looked threatening Chelsea scored the second goal in the 74th minute.
Defender Alex who was about to get a touch to Frank Lampard`s free kick was brought down inside the danger zone by Higginbotham, Lampard who stepped forward made no mistake by sending the keeper in the wrong direction.
Sunderland were reduced to ten men for the last five minute as Liam Miller was flashed the red card for rough play.
Lampard almost scored his brace for Chelsea in the closing minutes of the injury time but his feeble volley hit the post.
Written by majicka
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