This archive report was first published on 23 December 2019.
On Sunday, Chelsea enjoyed a timely return to form, outplaying Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in the Premier League. The win, which came after four defeats in their last five Premier League games, helped Chelsea tighten their grip on fourth place.
Published on December 23, 2019, the match saw Frank Lampard outwit his former mentor Jose Mourinho in their managerial battle. Willian struck both Chelsea goals in the first half, with the first goal coming after 12 minutes.
Chelsea's win was aided by a shoddy home performance from Tottenham, who barely created a decent chance in response. A rush of blood to the head for Tottenham keeper Paulo Gazzaniga gifted Chelsea a penalty, awarded by VAR, just before halftime.
With the decision again being made by VAR, Tottenham's hopes of a revival were scuppered when Son Heung-min needlessly kicked out at Antonio Rudiger and was shown a red card.
The hosts could also find themselves in hot water after an object was thrown at Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and Rudiger appeared to suggest he had been victim of racial abuse.
Chelsea's win means they have opened up a four-point lead over fifth-placed Sheffield United, while Tottenham are six points back in seventh spot.
It was the first time in 14 matches at home against one of his previous clubs that Mourinho had suffered a defeat.
