Ballack on target again as Chelsea win 2-0 in Sheffield

LONDON, Oct 28 (Reuters) Goals by midfield duo Frank Lampard and Michael Ballack either side of halftime eased Chelsea to a regulation 2-0 victory at Sheffield United in the Premier League's early kickoff today.

The champions return to the top of the league on 25 points, though that tally can be matched by Manchester United, who visit third-placed Bolton Wanderers (20 points) later today.

Chelsea had a few early scares but were eventually comfortable winners.

Sheffield United, seeking their second win of the season, missed a great chance to take the lead in the 17th minute after Chelsea striker Didier Drogba was ruled to have hauled down Claude Davis.

However, Chelsea's third-choice keeper Hilario had little difficulty saving Danny Webber's under-hit spot kick.

That made it three misses from three penalties for the promoted club this season, and with just for goals in their first nine games, the lowest in the division, it is a profligacy they can ill-afford.

Chelsea broke through two minutes before the break when United keeper Paddy Kenny, who had brilliantly saved a Lampard header moments earlier, horribly misjudged a regulation 25-metre free kick from the same player, allowing the ball to fly past the wall and straight into the space he had just vacated.

Lampard turned provider four minutes after the restart, crossing to the back post for Ballack to climb high and head home strongly for his second goal in consecutive league games.

Chelsea, who visit Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday, were able to cruise home from then on.

REUTERS DH RK2025