Second half goals from Nicolas Anelka and Florent Malouda sent Liverpool crashing to their third Premier League defeat of the season at Stamford Bridge.The defeat leaves Liverpool six points behind Chelsea and Rafa Benitez's side have now lost three times in their first eight league games after losing just twice through the whole of last season.
Chelsea were without first-choice goalkeeper Petr Cech, who served his suspension following his red card against Wigan, but they were buoyed by the return of Didier Drogba.
Liverpool's midfield was strengthened by the return of Javier Mascherano after injury - and he played a crucial role in protecting his defence in a scrappy and evenly contested opening period.
After a tight first half, former Liverpool striker Anelka opened the scoring when he converted Drogba's cross in the 60th minute.
Drogba was the provider again in stoppage time as he over-powered Jamie Carragher and crossed for Malouda to slide home.
Substitute Benayoun wasted Liverpool's best chance when he somehow missed an easy shot with only stand-in goalkeeper Hilario to beat but that came after Malouda had already doubled Chelsea's advantage.
After the international break, Liverpool next head to the North-East in 2 weeks' time, aiming to extend their impressive winning run against Sunderland. The Reds have triumphed in their previous six meetings with the Black Cats and a repeat of last season's 1-0 victory at the Stadium of Light is much needed to help maintain the title challenge.
Steve Bruce's men have enjoyed a promising start to the new campaign and the Reds are well aware that they will need to shackle the goal threat of on-form strike duo Darren Bent and Kenwyne Jones if they are to come away with the three points once again.
