Marc Cucurella scored in Chelsea’s win over Brentford (Image: Getty)
Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson scored either side of half-time against Brentford to move within two points of in the . ‘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 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 starting 11 after dropping out for two games. He played well in an attacking role.
Tosin Adarabioyo – 6
This was a rare 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 deservedly took the lead.
Marc Cucurella scored his first Premier League goal for Chelsea (Image: Getty)
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 ’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.
– 6
This was by no means Palmer’s best performance in a 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 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.