Enzo Maresca praised his Chelsea side’s resilience after their 2-1 win over Brentford, despite a nervy ending to the match. The Blues took the lead just before halftime when full-back Marc Cucurella flicked a header into the net after sustained pressure on Brentford’s defense.
The game appeared to be in Chelsea’s control until Nicolas Jackson squandered a golden opportunity, missing an open goal from close range. However, the Senegalese forward redeemed himself in the 80th minute, finishing an Enzo Fernandez through ball with precision.
Drama unfolded late in the game when Cucurella’s mistake gifted Brentford possession, leading to Bryan Mbeumo’s composed finish past Robert Sanchez. Chelsea were forced to hold on with 10 men after Cucurella was sent off, but they managed to secure the victory, much to Maresca’s relief.
Cucurella 8, Palmer 5.5: rating Chelsea players in Brentford win
Cucurella – 8
Great defensively, scored the first goal. Sent off after the final whistle.
Caicedo – 7.5
Won the ball to start the attack leading to the second goal. Was tackled in the build-up to Brentford’s only goal.
Madueke – 7
An uneven display, but was a trouble for his opponents. A brilliant cross for Cucurella’s goal.
Jackson – 7
An astonishing empty-net miss was followed by a great goal. Subbed off.
Palmer – 5.5
Limped early on. Perhaps, that’s why he was quieter than usual.
The rest: Sanchez – 7, Gusto – 6.5, Tosin – 6.5, Colwill – 7, Fernandez – 7, Sancho – 6, Nkunku – n/a
