CHELSEA MOVED UP to second in the Premier League with a 2-1 London derby victory over Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.

Jose Mourinho backed his misfiring strikers ahead of Saturday’s game and Fernando Torres responded by scoring his first goal since October to put Chelsea in front.

In-form Palace striker Marouane Chamakh scored his third goal in as many games to equalise, but Ramires notched his first Premier League goal of the season with a fine strike to restore Chelsea’s advantage before half-time.

Palace have been resurgent under new manager Tony Pulis and had chances to get something out of the game, but Chelsea held on to secure a seventh win out of eight home games in the top flight and close the gap on leaders Arsenal to two points.

Defeat for Palace ensured they remain in the relegation zone, but Pulis will take plenty of heart from their display.

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