Chelsea go top as Liverpool upset at Southampton

Chelsea's John Obi Mikel (2nd L) celebrates with team mates after scoring against Fulham during their English Premier League soccer match at Stamford Bridge in London September 21, 2013. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON - Chelsea scored their first win in four games after beating west London rivals Fulham 2-0 and moved to the top of the English Premier League but previous leaders Liverpool were stunned at Southampton on Saturday.

After consecutive defeats to Everton and Basel, Jose Mourinho's side was in desperate need of a victory but they still struggled to create chances in the first half.

The Blues went ahead in the 52nd minute when Oscar scored from six meters out after David Stockdale had failed to hold Andre Schurrle's shot.

John Mikel Obi made it 2-0 six minutes from time with a volley after John Terry had knocked down Frank Lampard's corner. It was Mikel's first Premier League goal for the Blues in his 185th appearance.

"They have been killing me about it - going to the national team and scoring but not here," the Nigeria midfielder said. "I'm sure the guys will give me a lot of stick."

Mikel had only previously scored twice for Chelsea, in the FA Cup in January 2007 during Jose Mourinho's first reign as manager.

Liverpool, who were held to a 2-2 on Monday by Swansea City, saw their momentum fade further as Lovren scored the winner for the hosts in the 53rd minute with a header from a left-wing corner.

Elsewhere, West Bromwich Albion beat Sunderland 3-0 to impose more pressure on visiting manager Paolo Di Canio. Newcastle missed out on the chance to go second after losing to Hull City 0-3.  Everton beat West Ham at Upton Park 3-2, Aston Villa snatched a 1-0 win over hosts Norwich.