CHELSEA 2 COVENTRY 1

Chelsea earned a very hard fought three points against fast improving Coventry City at Stamford Bridge.

The visitors were the only side to have beaten Chelsea in the Premiership this season. Their early performance suggested they were more than capable of doing so again.

The hard and direct running of Darren Huckerby caused problems from the outset. Indeed it was Huckerby who gave Coventry an early lead after he cleverly lobbed the advancing Ed de Goey. In truth it was nothing more than Coventry's opening spell had deserved.

Chelsea were fortunate not to go further behind and after some incisive and intricate passing moves Coventry carved out a chance which came back off the upright. However, to Chelsea's credit although not playing at their best they continued to seek an equaliser.

In injury time in the first half Frank Leboeuf ventured forward with positive intent and unleashed a thunderous shot which flew into the top corner. The goal was celebrated with joy and relief.

In the second half a similar pattern emerged with Coventry growing in confidence and their defensive resolve seemed to be likely to secure them a draw. Chelsea, however, recognised that a game at home against a side in the lower reaches of the table should produce a home win.

They were not about to settle for parity but they had to wait till the dying moments to reach their aim. Denis Wise held off his marker inside the area before playing the ball back to Roberto Di Matteo.

His shot was as powerful as it was accurate and gave Chelsea what had hitherto appeared to be an unlikely victory. Nonetheless, it has proved the difference between Chelsea this season and last. They play for the full 90 minutes and beyond if necessary.

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