Chelsea have narrowed the gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool to just two points, thanks to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford. Nicolas Jackson’s ninth league goal of the season proved decisive, as Enzo Maresca’s side capitalised on their dominance to secure a crucial three points.
The hosts, led by Jackson, exerted considerable pressure on the Bees’ defence, with the Senegalese striker coming close on multiple occasions. However, Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken produced a string of impressive saves to keep his team in contention, thwarting efforts from Enzo Fernandez, Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke.
Chelsea eventually broke the deadlock two minutes before half-time, as Marc Cucurella headed home Madueke’s pinpoint cross. The Bees responded strongly in the second half, with Christian Norgaard forcing a spectacular save from Robert Sanchez and Fabio Carvalho striking the crossbar from six yards out.
Thomas Frank’s side continued to push Chelsea back, but Jackson sealed the win with a clinical finish on the counter-attack with 10 minutes remaining. Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo scored a consolation goal in the 90th minute, but Chelsea held on for a hard-earned victory.
The win was soured slightly by Cucurella receiving a second yellow card after the final whistle following a clash with Carvalho. Despite this, the Spaniard’s superb performance was a highlight of an entertaining match at Stamford Bridge.
Image Credit: AFP