A dogged Stoke side made Chelsea work hard for their narrow 1-0 victory following the first half dismissal of the Potters Ricardo Fuller. Stoke have not won at Stamford Bridge in the league since a 1-0 victory in April 1974 and following the red card showed to Fuller for stamping on Branislav Ivanovic in the 24th minute it seemed unlikely that record would not continue.
But the Blues had to be patient as Stoke defended well and had to wait until the 68th minute before making the breakthrough after twice hitting the Potters woodwork.
Juan Mata provided the pass for Didier Drogba to round keeper Asmir Begovic and stroke home his 100th Premier League goal following a momentary lapse of concentration in the visitor's defence.
Chelsea deserved the three points which sees them level on points with Arsenal in fifth place.
As for Stoke boss Tony Pulis will be furious with Ricardo Fuller for his first-half stamp which effectively handed the game to the home side.
Referee: Andre Marriner
Venue: Stamford Bridge
Attendance: 40,945
Chelsea scorers: Drogba 68 Stoke scorers:
TRIBAL ASKS: Will Chelsea now go and run of results to clinch a Champions League place?
Yellow cards: Mikel (CHE), Diao (STO), Shotton (STO) Red card: Fuller (STO)
