Chelsea keep title race alive

A goal in each half from Didier Drogba and substitute Salomon Kalou kept Chelsea’s title dreams alive at Fratton Park.

Deadly Drogba struck his 29th goal of the season in the 32nd minute when he volleyed home Ashley Cole’s long cross.

Chelsea had goalkeeper Petr Cech to thank for protecting their lead until Kalou added a second goal nine minutes from time.

The victory leaves them nine points behind Manchester United at the top of the Barclays Premiership.

Chelsea had Cech to thank for keeping them in front with a superb double save. In the 77th minute, he saved brilliantly at point-blank range to stop a header from Andrew Cole and he repeated the feat seconds later to turn another headed effort from Kanu around the post.

Pompey paid the price for their failure to beat the Czech international when substitute Kalou added a second nine minutes from time.