EPL Update: Willian Snatches Late Chelsea Winner

Chelsea 1-0 Everton

Willian left it very late to ensure Chelsea retain their seven-point lead at the summit of the Premier league table as his deflected strike broke the hearts of visiting Everton fans.

Chelsea struggled to make an impact in the game and often time were at the mercy of an inspired Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard, who kept out efforts by Loic Remy, Nemanja Matic and Willian.

Petr Cech was likewise on hand to deny Romelu Lukaku with his outstretched legs.

Willian Celebrates Chelsea Match-Winner against Everton at Stamford Bridge. Image: Getty.
Willian Celebrates Chelsea Match-Winner against Everton at Stamford Bridge. Image: Getty.

While the match edged closer to injury time and with the Blues staring at a stalemate, a couple of minutes at Stamford Bridge proved decisive after Matic thought he had scored only for his celebration to be cut short by the linesman’s flag and Gareth Barry was dismissed in the melee than ensued afterwards.

Willian squeezed in a deflected half volley to settle scores and help the Blues continue in their driving seat.

Stoke 1-4 Man City

Sergio Aguero scored his first goal since 3 December as Manchester City secured their first league win at Stoke City since 1999.

Aguero opened scoring for Manuel Pellegrini’s side courtesy of a good solo performance; the Argentine finished into the bottom corner after a swift surge.

Peter Crouch drew the Britannia Stadium hosts level few minutes later, powering in a header from Marko Arnautovic’s long cross, but James Milner restored the champions’ advantage after the break.

Aguero completed his brace from the penalty spot after David Silva had been fouled by Geoff Cameron, before Samir Nasri drove in a fourth to seal a comfortable win.

Southampton 0-0 West Ham

Ten-man West Ham frustrated Uefa Champions League football contenders Southampton in a goalless draw at Boleyn Ground.

The Hammers had goalkeeper Adrian sent off for handling the ball outside the area when under pressure from Sadio Mane after a clumsy touch.

Senegalese striker Mane was denied by a goal-line clearance earlier. Maya Yoshida headed over as Southampton pushed for a late winner.

The result, the Saints’ first clean sheet in 18 away games, leaves them in fourth position, a point ahead of Arsenal.

Man Utd 3-1 Burnley

Palace 1-1 Newcastle

West Brom 2-0 Swansea

More to follow…