BLACKBURN Rovers were indebted to Brad Friedel for some inspired goalkeeping during a keenly contested first half at Stamford Bridge.

Mark Hughes' side gave a good account of themselves during the opening half hour, but gradually Chelsea got on top, and it needed some smart work from Friedel to ensure the teams went in level at the break.

It was Rovers who had the better of the opening exchanges but, despite some neat approach play, they failed to seriously test home keeper Petr Cech.

As the half wore on, Chelsea, who were defending a 65-match home unbeaten record in the league, then started to get into their stride.

First, Friedel produced an outstanding full-length save to keep out a Michael Essien blockbuster.

Then moments later, the Rovers keeper showed great awareness to dash off his line and smother an effort by Andriy Shevchenko.

Shevchenko also headed over from a promising position, and Juliano Belletti, who looked a real danger whenever he ventured forward from right-back, fired in a low drive that was comfortably gathered by Friedel.

Just before half-time, David Bentley created Rovers' best chance when he crossed to the far post, but Morten Gamst Pedersen's volley hit the side-netting.

Chelsea: Petr Cech, Juliano Belletti, Alex, John Terry, Ashley Cole, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Essien, Sidwell, Joe Cole, Andriy Shevchenko, Salomon Kalou.

Rovers: Friedel, Emerton, Samba, Nelsen, Warnock, Bentley, Dunn, Savage, Pedersen, McCarthy, Santa Cruz.

Referee: Mr H Webb