Hat-trick for resurgent Lampard

Frank Lampard served up a reminder of his importance to the Chelsea cause as he hit a hat-trick in the Blues’ 5-1 demolition of Bolton at the Reebok Stadium.

Lampard responded in the best possible way to speculation over his future after being dropped to the bench for last week’s win over Swansea, netting twice in the first half before completing his treble just before the hour mark.

Daniel Sturridge grabbed a brace for the victors, who return to third in the standings, while rock-bottom Bolton’s consolation came when Dedryck Boyata nodded in early in the second half.

At Craven Cottage, Fulham striker Andrew Johnson emulated Lampard’s efforts as he bagged three in his side’s 6-0 mauling of west London rivals QPR.

The 30-year-old broke the deadlock after just 79 seconds before adding a further goals either side of the break.

Danny Murphy’s penalty along with efforts from Clint Dempsey and Bobby Zamora complemented Johnson’s treble as Martin Jol’s men secured their first league win of the season.

Record signing Danny Graham grabbed his first Swansea goal as the Welsh club maintained their unbeaten home league record with a 2-0 victory over Stoke at the Liberty Stadium.

Scott Sinclair opened the scoring when he slotted his second penalty of the campaign in the tenth minute after Potters captain Ryan Shawcross brought down Wayne Routledge. Graham then made sure of the win with five minutes remaining as he came out on top in a challenge with Jonathan Woodgate to calmly fire home.