Barclays Premier League - Liverpool Versus Chelsea

This was the biggest hurdle that stood in the way of Chelsea from claiming their third title. Although both teams started off slowly, Chelsea came out as the better of the two teams as they showed that their ability to become champions in the second half. They were able to walk away with three points, with the match ending 2-0, in favour of Chelsea.

In the early part of the first-half, there were three penalty appeals from both sides. Two were from Chelsea and one from Liverpool. Kalou was involved in both occasions. In the first, he seemed to have dived in the ninth minute and he tripped himself in the second occasion, with Liverpool's Lucas Leiva hot on his heels. Alberto Aquilani of Liverpool went down in the penalty box after a challenge from Branislav Ivanovic. This was a reasonable appeal for a peanalty as the Chelsea player did not seem to come in contact with the ball. Moreover, before half-time, Liverpool also lost Maxi Rodriguez through an injury and was replaced by Ryan Babel. This was a huge blow to Liverpool. Alberto Aquilani was involved in some of the chances created by the Liverpool. However, he failed to convert in those occasions.

Chelsea opened the scoring through Drogba in the 33rd minute. A sloppy back-pass from Liverpool captain, Steven Gerrard, handed Drogba a simple goal. Chelsea finished the first-half with a one nil lead, all thanks to an error from Gerrard.

In the second-half, Chelsea was clearly off to a better start. After six minutes in the second-half, Kalou pulled a cross into the six-yard box, only for Anelka to miss a simple tap in.

However, Anelka was able to create a opportunity in the 54th minute for Frank Lampard, who was able to convert from close range. His cross manage to pick out Lampard who slid in to score Chelsea's second and his 21st premier league goal this season.

Chelsea could have extended their lead if not for Liverpool's goalkeeper, Reina, to keep Chelsea at bay. This included a double save from Anelka then Kalou. Malouda's low shot was also saved by Reina.

The match ended 2-0 in favour of Chelsea and they move one step closer to claiming their third league title, with only Wigan standing in their way.