Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson scored either side of half-time against Brentford to move Chelsea within two points of Liverpool in the Premier League. Enzo Maresca’s side are the closest challengers to the Reds and proved their title credentials again in this 2-1 triumph at Stamford Bridge.
Cucurella headed the Blues in front against their west London rivals in the 43rd minute. Jackson, who missed a host of chances, made the game safe 10 minutes from full-time.
Bryan Mbeumo ensured a nervy final few moments for the hosts with a late consolation but Chelsea held on. Here is how Express Sport rated Maresca’s players.
Robert Sanchez – 6
Brentford struggled to create many chances until the final 15 minutes. They should have tested Sanchez more.
Malo Gusto – 7
Gusto made his return to the Chelsea starting 11 after dropping out for two games. He played well in an attacking role.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 6
This was a rare Premier League start for Tosin. The former Fulham defender will be pleased to have had little to do against a surprisingly toothless Brentford side, who only piled on the pressure late on.
Levi Colwill – 6
A huge success story of the Maresca era, academy graduate Colwill dealt with any pressure from Brentford well and impressed with his pass selection.
Marc Cucurella – 8
Cucurella grabbed the match-winning goal in an all-action display. His excellent run into the box saw him meet Noni Madueke’s cross, flicking home a header as Chelsea deservedly took the lead.
Moises Caicedo – 8
Caicedo returned to a midfield role after spending much of the last few weeks inverting from right-back. The £115m star was superb alongside Enzo Fernandez. His ability to quickly win possession stifled Brentford’s attacking threat.
Enzo Fernandez – 7
Fernandez was also key in preventing Brentford from posing more of a threat. The Argentine provided a link between Chelsea’s defence and attack, leading them on in style.
Noni Madueke – 7
Madueke is adding consistency to his game this season. The 22-year-old’s delivery was headed in by Cucurella. Madueke posed a constant threat to Brentford.
Cole Palmer – 6
This was by no means Palmer’s best performance in a Chelsea shirt, but he still managed to contribute plenty of bright moments in attack. A positive for Maresca is that when his star man struggles to find his rhythm in matches, there are other Chelsea players who are prepared to step up.
Jadon Sancho – 7
Sancho created several chances and had a positive game. He can point the blame at his team-mates for the failure to convert many of those opportunities.
Nicolas Jackson – 6
This was a rare off night for Jackson despite his late goal. The forward had missed several good opportunities before striking late on, and was frustratingly dispossessed on a couple of occasions. The 23-year-old has set high standards this season and he’ll be disappointed with his display.
Substitutes
Christopher Nkunku – N/A
Nkunku replaced Jackson in the 84th minute but had little time to make an impact.
