Chelsea stretch lead with win over Hull
London, Jan. 23: Chelsea extended their lead at the top of the English Premier League to eight points on Sunday when recalled striker Diego Costa set them on their way to a 2-0 home win over struggling Hull City.
The game was overshadowed by injury to Hull midfielder Ryan Mason who fractured his skull in a clash of heads with Chelsea captain Gary Cahill in the first half and was taken to hospital to undergo surgery.
Costa scored shortly before half time after wing back Victor Moses ran at the Hull defence and found the Spain striker in a crowded penalty area with his cross.
Costa missed last weekend’s win at Leicester City with what Chelsea officials said was a back strain. British media reported that a row with backroom staff and a possible lucrative transfer to China were the real reasons behind his absence.
Cahill made sure of the victory when he headed home unchallenged from a Cesc Fabregas free kick in the 82nd minute.
The win against Hull allowed Chelsea to capitalise on the failure of their closest title rivals to win at the weekend, except for Arsenal who beat Burnley 2-1 earlier on Sunday. Hull remain one place above bottom-placed Sunderland.
Meanwhile, Hull City midfielder Ryan Mason has been talking in hospital about the incident which left him with a fractured skull, the Premier League club said Monday.
Mason was visited by Hull captain Michael Dawson and several club officials on Monday.
A Hull statement said: “Ryan has been visited this morning at St Mary’s Hospital by club captain Michael Dawson, club doctor Mark Waller, head of medical Rob Price and club secretary Matt Wild.
“Ryan has been speaking of the incident yesterday and will continue to be monitored at the hospital over the coming days where the club will remain in close contact with Ryan, his family and the staff at St Mary’s.”
The statement added: “Ryan and his family have also been extremely touched by the overwhelming support they have received and would very much like to thank all of those who have posted such positive comments.”
Cahill, Chelsea captain John Terry and assistant manager Steve Holland all reportedly visited Mason on Sunday.
Clubs and players from across England and beyond sent messages of support for Mason, among them former Manchester United and Chelsea striker Radamel Falcao, who tweeted: “My thoughts and pray for Ryan Mason. Get well soon!” — Agencies