Upbeat Chelsea beat holders Liverpool to boost top five push

Chelsea bolstered their bid to qualify for the Champions League with a 3-1 win as Liverpool suffered a Premier League title hangover at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

- Agencies

LONDON:

Enzo Maresca's side took the lead through Enzo Fernandez's early strike at Stamford Bridge.

Jarell Quansah's second-half own goal was followed by Virgil van Dijk's late reply for Liverpool.

Cole Palmer's stoppage-time penalty condemned the champions to only their third league defeat this season.

While lacklustre Liverpool had little to play for after winning a record-equalling 20th English crown with a 5-1 rout of Tottenham last weekend, Chelsea had every incentive to secure a priceless three points.