Cesc Fabregas silenced his critics by producing a superb winner for Chelsea in a scrappy derby at QPR.

The midfielder popped up late on to deliver the visitors a crucial three points.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho handed Didier Drogba a rare start, with Loic Remy a late withdrawal after a training ground injury.

Rs manager Chris Ramsey went with two upfront as Charlie Austin and Bobby Zamora took on the Blues defence.

QPR gave as good as they received in a scrappy first-half. Austin went closest for the hosts, hitting a strong drive to the right of Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who turned it aside.

But it was the Blues who almost took a lead into the break when Willian struck Robert Green's near post with a deep cross.

QPR opened the second-half strongly and Courtois had to be at his very best to deny Matt Phillips with a world class reaction save.

Austin went close inside the Blues penalty area before Chelsea worked a wonderful winning goal.

Green's miss-kick fell for Eden Hazard who drove at the heart of QPR's defence before the ball was eventually worked to Cesc. The Spaniard calmly passed his effort beyond a despairing Green for Chelsea's 100th goal of the season.

Chelsea skipper John Terry enjoyed the victory more than most, having endured a torrent abuse from home fans for the entire 90 minutes.