LONDON: Chelsea maintained their blistering start to the season with a 3-0 victory over Burnley at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Nicolas Anelka broke Burnley's stubborn resistance when he slid in to convert Didier Drogba's cross just before half-time.

That opened the floodgates and newly-promoted Burnley, who had claimed famous victories over Manchester United and Everton in their previous two matches, were washed away.

Michael Ballack added Chelsea's second goal soon after the break when he headed in Frank Lampard's cross and Ashley Cole smashed in the third five minutes later to give Carlo Ancelotti's side their fourth successive victory under their new Italian manager.

Liverpool travel to Bolton later Saturday, while Manchester United host Arsenal in the day's big game.