City lose at last as Chelsea revive title bid

Manchester City were left just two points in front of local rivals and reigning champions Manchester United at the top of the English Premier League after a 2-1 defeat away to Chelsea tonight.

England midfielder Frank Lampard, seemingly out of favour with Blues manager Andre Villas-Boas, sealed Chelsea's victory and ended 10-man City's unbeaten start to the league season with an 83rd minute penalty after Joleon Lescott handled striker Daniel Sturridge's shot.

Victory saw Chelsea move up into third place and left them just seven points behind leaders City as the London club revived their title bid.

Recalled striker Mario Balotelli put City 1-0 up inside two minutes at a wet and windy Stamford Bridge before Sergio Aguero missed a chance to make it 2-0 and David Silva had a penalty appeal rejected.

Chelsea levelled 11 minutes before half-time when Raul Meireles volleyed in Daniel Sturridge's cross and City's night got worse in the 58th minute when Gael Clichy was sent off for a second yellow card.