Second half goals give Blues win

New Fulham boss Roy Hodgson endured a losing start to his Cottagers reign as Chelsea overcame a lifeless first half to edge their west London rivals.

Danny Murphy blasted Fulham ahead with a 10th-minute penalty, a lead that deservedly remained intact until the interval.

But Chelsea clicked into gear after the break with a Salomon Kalou header and disputed Michael Ballack penalty securing the three points.

Substitute David Healy and Cole had half chances but it was Fulham who enjoyed the brighter moments of a nervy finish.

Their late dominance failed to pay off, however, as Chelsea held firm through four minutes of injury time to thwart their London rivals.