Chelsea are looking to make a significant impact on the title race as Liverpool’s normally resilient defence collapsed to hand the Blues a deserved two-goal interval lead.

Graeme Le Saux’s first goal in almost four years put the Blues ahead after just two minutes and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink doubled their lead as Liverpool struggled on a ground they last won at in the league 12 years ago.

However, Chelsea goalkeeper Cudicini will be the toast of Stamford Bridge after saving a Gary McAllister penalty to keep a two-goal margin between the sides.

John Aarne Riise was tripped by Mario Melchiot in the box but Gary McAllister's low spot-kick was well-held at the foot of his post by Cudicini.

In the second half, Sam Dalla Bona added a third with 20 minutes to go and Eidur Gudjohnsen made it four in injury time.