A first-half strike by Michael Essien gave Chelsea a 1-0 home victory over Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday. The Ghanaian international notched the sole goal on 18 minutes after diverting Frank Lampard's free-kick into the net. Upon claiming all three points, Chelsea advanced to second place with 61 points, trailing leaders Manchester United by four. Tenth-placed City remain on 35 points, just six above the relegation zone. The Blues haven't lost since Guus Hiddink succeeded Luiz Felipe Scolari as head coach at Stamford Bridge about a month ago. Watch Essien's goal