For the second time in succession Chelsea showed just why they are serious title contenders for this season by coming from a goal behind to beat Sunderland 1-3 at the Stadium of Light in a midweek Premier League fixture.

Chelsea dominated the first half, but still fell behind to an 18th minute goal from Darren Bent. The latter capitalized on a ball that came into his path after Branislav Ivanovic had blocked Kenwyne Jones' shot. The goal spurred Chelsea into action, but they were unable to make telling strikes with only Deco's 21st minute shot to show for in the first 45 minutes.

However the lead did not last long after the break when Ivanovic laid on a ball from a Frank Lampard corner into Michael Ballack's path, whose volley beat Lee Cattermole as well as goalkeeper Martin Fulop.

The goal seemed to be just the impetus Chelsea needed and Drogba's surging run on 61 minutes was halted by a challenge from George McCartney, which resulted in a penalty. Frank Lampard slotted home and put the visitors ahead.

The game was well and truly over on 80 minutes when full-back Jose Bosingwa found Deco on the edge of the penalty area. The Portuguese winger slotted home to give manager Carlo Ancelotti his first away win and leave Black Cats boss Steve Bruce with many questions to answer.