A rare goal from Ashley Cole gave Chelsea a hard-earned win over Stoke City at Stamford Bridge this afternoon.

The 31-year-old England left-back netted his first goal since May 2010 when he poked the ball past Asmir Begovic with just five minutes remaining.

The visitors, who had drawn their opening four Premier League fixtures, went close to taking the lead on 19 minutes when Jonathan Walters headed Glenn Whelan's free kick against the crossbar from close range.

Fernando Torres then spurned a good chance to give his side a half-time lead, completely missing the ball after being put through by Juan Mata.

Chelsea were camped inside the Potters' half for most of the second period, but they were unable to create many clear-cut chances.

Oscar, fresh from his midweek brace against Juventus in the Champions League, twice went close from distance.

The Brazilian midfielder was also shown a yellow card - correctly - for simulation, after throwing himself to the ground inside the penalty area.

The European champions finally broke the deadlock on 85 minutes, Cole completing a fine one-touch passing move with a dinked finish from five yards.

Chelsea remain top of the Premier League table.