Chelsea end year in style

Chelsea ended 2005 in style with a comfortable win over struggling Birmingham at Stamford Bridge.

The victory briefly increased their lead at the top of the Barclays Premiership to 16 points with Manchester United and Liverpool kicking off two hours later than the champions.

First-half goals from Hernan Crespo and Arjen Robben earned Chelsea their win although City had goalkeeper Maik Taylor to thank for keeping the score down.