Eden Hazard struck a hat-trick as Chelsea eased past Newcastle United 3-0 at Stamford Bridge to go top of the Premier League.
Hazard scored his 12th goal of the season shortly before the half-hour mark when he exchanged passes with Branislav Ivanovic before slotting past Tim Krul.
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Hatem Ben Arfa caused a few problems for the home side in the first half and the French winger was denied by Petr Cech in the Chelsea goal after he jinked inside Cesar Azpilicueta.
Moussa Sissoko wasted a great chance for the Magpies when his heavy touch took him too close to Cech on 34 minutes.
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Moments later, Hazard added his second of the afternoon when he guided an effort inside the far post following an incisive counter-attack from Jose Mourinho's side featuring Willian and Samuel Eto'o.
The Belgium international had his hat-trick just after the hour mark when he calmly converted a penalty.
Mohamed Salah was introduced for Willian for his Chelsea debut with around 15 minutes remaining before Hazard was brought off to a rapturous ovation from the home supporters.
Paul Gorst
