Chelsea closer to title triumph after sinking Liverpool

Carlo Ancelotti’s side are now four points clear of second placed Manchester United and will be crowned champions for the first time since 2006 if Sir Alex Ferguson’s team lose at Sunderland later on Sunday or if the Blues beat Wigan at home next weekend.

Chelsea were given a substantial helping hand by Gerrard, whose poor back-pass allowed Didier Drogba to opening the scoring in the first half before Frank Lampard struck after the interval.

After a three-year reign as champions of England, Ferguson’s men had to watch on helplessly as their old rivals Liverpool presented Chelsea with a win which should stop United securing a record 19^th championship.

Liverpool’s usually vociferous fans were extremely subdued as they refused to roar their team to a win that could help bitter enemies United land the title.

Benitez’s players gave slightly more effort and dominated the early stages, but United would have been furious at the careless way Gerrard gifted Chelsea the lead in the 33^rd minute.

Under no real pressure in midfield, Gerrard turned towards his own goal and played a back-pass that Drogba gratefully seized before rounding Jose Reina and slotting into the empty net for his 33^rd goal of the season.

Ancelotti’s side took total control after that and Lampard increased their lead in the 54^th minute when he slid in to convert Nicolas Anelka’s low cross.