Stunning goals from Oscar and Cesc Fabregas sealed the win though they owe a huge debt of gratitude to Palace defender Damien Delaney. Within a minute of Chelsea being reduced to 10 men after Cesar Azpilicueta deservedly received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Mile Jedinak, the home side's numerical advantage was thrown away. The Irishman's idiotic tug on Loic Remy earned him a second yellow card and the initiative was handed straight back to Chelsea who kept hold of it for the rest of the game.
Prior to all that drama, Chelsea had dominated the match though the home side always looked sprightly on the break. Once Palace lost Delaney, however, all threat disappeared and the second half was about as one-sided as any that the Premier League will witness this season. A loss of concentration late on saw Fraizer Campbell pull one back to set up a nervy finish but Chelsea's performance will have delighted Jose Mourinho considering the manner of his team's defeat at Selhurst Park last season.
(GK) Thibaut Courtois, 7 -- The Belgian stopper was rarely called into action but was flawless when needed. Dealt with an uncomfortable cross-shot from Yannick Bolasie with customary ease but had no chance with Campbell's late strike.
(DF) Cesar Azpilicueta, 5 -- The Spaniard had been enjoying a typically solid defensive performance but that all unraveled five minutes before half time. Having seen the ball run away from him, an injudicious lunge caught Jedinak and referee Craig Pawson had no choice but to send him off. The aberration could have cost Chelsea dear, thankfully Delaney levelled the playing field moments later.
(DF) Branislav Ivanovic, 7 -- A sturdy display from the right back as he largely curbed his forays upfield no doubt due to the danger presented by the pace of Bolasie, Jason Puncheon and substitute Wilfred Zaha. None of them managed to get the better of the 30-year-old who has become the dictionary definition of dependable.
(DF) John Terry, 7 -- Positionally excellent as always, the former England captain repelled the few attacks that Palace mustered with the exception of the goal that saw Zaha's cross go between his legs. Given the pace and proximity of the ball, he can be excused and can be pleased with his contribution as he captained Chelsea for the 500th time and was unlucky not to mark the occasion with a goal after he saw a header cleared off the line.
(DF) Gary Cahill, 6 -- The current England center back had an uncharacteristically shaky opening 25 minutes in which he was given a torrid time by Campbell and had Courtois to thank for ensuring that his errors didn't result in a goal. Recovered his poise after that period and made a sensational last-ditch challenge on Bolasie in the closing stages to restore his pride.
(MF) Nemanja Matic, 9 -- The giant Serb absolutely dominated the centre of the pitch in yet another fantastic display. Not content with just breaking up attacks, Matic was pulling the strings in the opposition half as the creative hub of the team. Covered every blade of Selhurst Park and seemed to pop up wherever the ball was no matter where it was on the field. The best individual performer in an excellent team display.
(MF) Cesc Fabregas, 8 -- The tricky Spaniard buzzed around Matic with his usual efficiency as they dove-tailed beautifully in midfield. Was not afraid to get forward and supplement the attack, culminating in him rounding off a sensational move to score the decisive second goal. Usually the provider for Costa, Fabregas finished in the manner of his ruthless compatriot.
(MF) Oscar, 8 -- A sensational free kick from the Brazilian set the Blues on their way and he continued to play superbly for the rest of the 90 minutes. Dogged in the tackle and inventive in possession, he laid the ball on a plate for Fabregas's goal. Would have been man of the match had it not been for Matic's excellence.
(FW) Willian, 7 -- Was enjoying a decent game until he became the sacrificial lamb following Azpilicueta's dismissal. Prior to being substituted for Filipe Luis, the Brazilian was industrious and creative, helping to pull the Palace defence out of position.
(FW) Loic Remy, 7 -- With the prolific Diego Costa ruled out through injury, the Frenchman had some sizable shoes to fill but did so admirably. Despite being bereft of Costa's physique, he still managed to hold the ball up well through using his body intelligently but he was equally happy to spin his marker and head goalwards. Had few chances to score yet generally executed his role as lone frontman very well.
Substitutes:
(DF) Filipe Luis, 6 -- Made only his second appearance in the Premier League after coming on to fill the gap left by the sending off though did not have the steadying influence normally provided by Azpilicueta. His weak challenge allowed Zaha to set up Campbell who gave the Blues a fright with a minute to go.
(FW) Mohamed Salah, NR -- Came on with just a few minutes and ran around enthusiastically. Had no time to make much of an impression.
(FW) Didier Drogba, NR - Would have sat this game out entirely had Palace not scored as 17-year-old Dominic Solanke was about to be brought on for his Premier League debut. With the scoreline narrowed, Mourinho understandably opted for experience to help close the game out
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