MX23RW : Wednesday, December 11 15:12:58| >> :60:1731:1731:

Half-Time Report: Juan Mata gives Chelsea lead

Juan Mata gives Chelsea a 1-0 lead at the halfway stage of their match against Norwich this afternoon.

Juan Mata has given Chelsea a 1-0 lead going into half time of their Premier League clash with Norwich City at Carrow Road this afternoon.

Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez - in front of Frank Lampard - on the bench at Carrow Road on December 26, 2012© PA Photos

David Luiz looked to make the most of his role in the centre of midfield, getting forward whenever he could, and it almost paid dividends in the 23rd minute as he found space to shoot, only for his curling effort to go over the bar.

Luiz then turned provider as a clever reverse pass found Juan Mata, who couldn't squeeze his shot in at the near post.

Chelsea star Juan Mata scores the first goal against Norwich on December 26, 2012© PA Photos

Mata had more luck seven minutes before the break as he linked up with Victor Moses and Oscar to fire past Mark Bunn from 20 yards.

The Canaries couldn't respond before the break as Chelsea took their 1-0 lead into the break.

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Barney Corkhill
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