Latest: Chelsea 2 West Ham 0 – Blues on course for another victory

John Terry’s first-half tap-in and Diego Costa 13th Premier League goal in 15 games put Chelsea on course for victory at Stamford Bridge.

Terry’s close-range strike deservedly put the Premier League leaders ahead after a scintillating first-half display which could have seen them out of sight.

And Costa danced through the West Ham defence and scored with a precise low shot just after the hour to put the Blues in control.

Chelsea were dominant from the outset.

Oscar blazed a glorious early chance over, Gary Cahill twice went close and there were numerous close calls for an overworked Hammers defence.

Oscar, back in the side in the number 10 role, with Cesc Fabregas reverting to his more regular spot alongside Nemanja Matic, missed an opportunity inside four minutes.

A fine run and cross by fellow Brazilian Willian found Oscar, who shot wildly over the bar from six yards.

Eden Hazard, who played despite concerns over an ankle knock, was a constant menace and had decent claims for a penalty waved away.

But finally the relentless pressure told when Terry opened the scoring, tapping home from close range after Costa headed on a Fabregas corner.

With West Ham barely escaping their own half, Chelsea continued to boss things.

Matic drew a fine save from keeper Adrian and Costa twice almost added a second goal in an increasingly feisty game.

The visitors threatened from a couple of set-pieces after the interval, but Chelsea still made the better openings.

Hazard unleashed a rasping strike that Adrian blocked and Willian curled a free-kick over before Costa doubled the lead with a composed strike.

Chelsea: Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Fabregas, Matic; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Costa.
Subs: Cech, Zouma, Filipe Luis, Mikel, Ramires, Schurrle, Drogba.

Follow West London Sport on Twitter
Find us on Facebook