Premier League — 09 December 2012

Chelsea picked up their first Premier League victory under Rafa Benitez, with a 3-1 victory at Sunderland on Saturday. The Blues took the lead on 11 minutes. Eden Hazard’s cross was half-volleyed home by Fernando Torres superbly.

In first half injury-time Chelsea were handed the opportunity to double their lead. Sunderland’s Sebastian Larsson brought down Brazilian midfielder Ramires in the penalty area. Torres took the resulting penalty and made no mistake from the spot.

The home side were three goals up in the 49th minute. Fernando Torres hit a ferocious effort that cannoned off the cross bar, only for compatriot Juan Mata to score with the rebound.

Sunderland did get a goal back in the 66th minute, winger Adam Johnson scoring with a superb curling left-footed effort. The defeat leaves the Black Cats in the relegation zone, with a crucial six-pointer against Reading on Tuesday night.

Norwich claimed a 4-3 victory at Swansea to continue their impressive run of form. The visitors took the lead on 16 minutes through full-back Steven Whittaker. Defender Sebastian Bassong doubled the Canaries lead with a header from a Grant Holt cross in the 40th minute.

It was Holt that made it three in the 44th minute, heading home from Robert Snodgrass’ free-kick. Michu got a goal back for the home side in the 51st minute and Jonathan De Guzman volleyed home the Swans second goal in 59th minute from a Nathan Dyer cross.

Swansea’s hopes of a comeback were dealt a blow in the 77th minute, as Robert Snodgrass curled home a superb free-kick for Norwich. Michu got a second goal for Swansea in injury-time, but the home side didn’t have time to find an equaliser.

Other Premier League results:

Arsenal 2-0 West Brom

Aston Villa 0-0 Stoke

Southampton 1-0 Reading

Wigan 2-2 QPR

Could Norwich be the surprise package of the Premier League season?

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David Nugent

David is a 29 year-old football fan and journalist, who is passionate about the beautiful game. He is a lifelong supporter of Premier League Everton and likes nothing better than a healthy discussion about the world's favourite sport.

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