Cesc Fabregas got the winner for Chelsea as they needed a late goal to down QPR and remain seven points clear.

The Spain international, criticised for his drop in form since Christmas, burst into the box before cooly dispatching Eden Hazard's lay-off to seal an undeserved victory in the west London derby.

QPR, embroiled in relegation battle, were the more dangerous team throughout and created a number of chances but were thwarted by visiting goalkeeper Thibault Courtois.

Chelsea dominated possession but, in the absence of injured forwards Diego Costa and Loic Remy, failed to register a shot on target before Fabregas's intervention.

Chelsea have 73 points from 31 games but have a game in hand of second-placed Arsenal, whom they play on April 26.

QPR remain 18th, two points behind Hull City – the side immediately above the relegation zone.

Third-placed Manchester United host rivals Man City, in fourth, in the day's late match.

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