EPL: Chelsea beat Bournemouth 3-1 to maintain 7-point lead

Chelsea maintained their seven-point lead at the top of the English Premier League (EPL) with a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth.

Pressured by Tottenham’s earlier thrashing of Watford, the visitors from Stamford Bridge looked to be cruising after two goals in three first-half minutes.

But Bournemouth, who had already hit the post, got back into the contest through Joshua King’s long-range deflected effort.

The Cherries continued to press after half-time only for Chelsea to gradually regain control and secured the points through Marcos Alonso’s impeccable free-kick.

The Blues next match is against Manchester United at Old Trafford, their sternest of six league fixtures between now and the end of the season.

If they return with their seven-point advantage still intact, they will be a huge step closer to a sixth title and fifth in the Premier League era.

In other EPL matches also played today, Liverpool came from behind to beat Stoke City 3-1 and stay on course for a top-four finish, thanks to goals by substitutes Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino.

Liverpool remain third in the table.

Also, Manchester City ended a four-game winless run with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Hull City. The victory has boosted their hopes of finishing in a Champions League spot.

Hull City remain two points above the relegation zone after Swansea lost 1-0 at West Ham.