Blues come from behind again

Trailing to Darren Bent's second goal in as many games at the break, the Italian saw Michael Ballack level with 52 minutes gone and Frank Lampard put the visitors in front from the penalty spot nine minutes later.

It was one-way traffic in the second half and Deco made sure of the points with a fine finish 20 minutes from time.

The visitors dominated possession. But, crucially, they were unable to make the pressure tell as the Black Cats defended from the front in numbers and with real tenacity. The hosts then managed to force their way ahead in what proved to be a rare excursion behind the Blues' defence.

The visitors may have considered themselves a little unfortunate when Jones' 18th-minute shot on the turn, which was blocked at source by Branislav Ivanovic, ran invitingly into Bent's path. But Michael Essien was caught cold as the striker pounced to slide a shot past keeper Petr Cech.

Chelsea's response was committed, but largely toothless, Deco sending a 21st-minute snap-shot well wide as Marton Fulop enjoyed a relatively comfortable opening 45 minutes.

Chelsea picked up after the interval exactly where they had left off, pinning Sunderland back and probing for a way through. The breakthrough arrived with 52 minutes gone when Ivanovic climbed to help on Lampard's corner and Ballack steered a left-foot volley past Lee Cattermole at the post.

Chelsea sensed their opportunity and flexed their muscles once again, and they took the lead only nine minutes later. Didier Drogba's trickery tempted George McCartney into an untidy challenge inside the box and referee Steve Bennett had little choice but to point to the spot.

Lampard stepped up to send Fulop the wrong way and ease the visitors in front for the first time on the night. Drogba could have wrapped up the points with 23 minutes remaining but headed Ashley Cole's inviting cross down into the turf and over the bar, but Sunderland's respite was short-lived.

There were 20 minutes remaining when full-back Jose Bosingwa found Deco on the edge of the penalty area, and he took a controlling touch before firing home a third goal off the foot of the post from 18 yards.