Aston Villa end goal drought but can’t stop rampant Chelsea

Aston Villa 1 Chelsea 2: This felt like a defining day in the destiny of this season’s Premier League title race.

Manchester City’s draw against Hull City enabled Chelsea, the league leaders, to stretch their advantage to seven points.

Perhaps that – in addition to the fact that this, somewhat curiously, was a first triumph at Villa Park — explained why Jose Mourinho, fists pumping as he orchestrated the celebrations on the field following the final whistle, appeared so emboldened by this success.