Alan Pardew admitted he did not expect Cesar Azpilicueta to unlock Crystal Palace's defence as the Chelsea defender played a "Cesc Fabregas-type ball" to assist Diego Costa.

Chelsea extended their Premier League winning streak to 11 games as Costa scored the only goal of the game in Saturday's Selhurst Park encounter, with the Spain striker heading in a delightful cross from compatriot Azpilicueta just before half-time.

Azpilicueta won the man of the match award as he also impressed at the back to keep Palace at bay for another clean sheet - their ninth in the last 11 league games - and Pardew was full of praise for Chelsea's defence as the Eagles struggled to find a way past Antonio Conte's table toppers.

Pardew told BBC Sport: "You don't really expect a centre-half [Azpilicueta] to have that quality - it was a Cesc Fabregas-type ball for the goal and it was a crucial one before half time.

"I take heart from the last two performances. We deserved something.

"It was a strong performance but they did not give us anything and that was as good a defensive display that we have seen.

"Once we conceded, it was very difficult.

"We could not get Wilfried Zaha isolated.

"We kept the ball and passed it well, but the final pass was very difficult.

"For our offensive players, it was the toughest game they have had.

"This team is not getting what it is deserves. That will change."