LONDON: A first-half strike by Diego Costa gave Chelsea a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace as the English Premier League leaders cruised to their 11th consecutive victory on Saturday.
Costa struck in the 43rd minute at a foggy Selhurst Park, rising at the back post to nod Cesar Azpilicueta's cross past Wayne Hennessey for his 13th goal of the season.
Chelsea were well worth the win and had chances to extend the lead after the break with Marcos Alonso and N'Golo Kante forcing fine saves from Hennessey before Alonso struck the underside of the crossbar with a free kick.
But Costa and teammate Kante also picked up bookings that will rule them out of the home match with Bournemouth on Dec 26.
The victory lifts Antonio Conte's side nine points clear of Liverpool and Arsenal pending the outcome of their weekend matches. Palace have won only once in their last 11 league games and remained three points above the bottom three.
In any case, Chelsea are assured of being in first place on Christmas Day. They have won the league title on each of the four previous occasions they have been on top at Christmas (2014-15, 2009-10, 2005-06 and 2004-05).