At this critical juncture of the season, where securing points takes precedence over performance quality, Chelsea managed to gain three points against Everton – a feat that felt less deserved based on their display compared to what a different opponent might have allowed. Nicolas Jackson`s early goal clinched the victory over an Everton side that, having already guaranteed their Premier League safety, appeared content to merely go through the motions at Stamford Bridge. This lack of intensity from the visitors was likely a significant relief for manager Enzo Maresca. Any other team might have severely punished Chelsea`s apparent reluctance to make effective use of their possession.
Ultimately, the minimal effort invested was sufficient on the day. For the time being, this win propels Chelsea into the top five of the Premier League table. If they can maintain this position after facing Nottingham Forest in their final league game, Maresca will have met the expectations typically associated with his appointment at the season`s commencement. Achieving that objective will undoubtedly be considered more significant than the method employed to reach it.
Reflecting a pattern seen throughout much of the year, Chelsea exhibited control of the ball, but this control often lacked genuine attacking menace. They could comfortably advance the ball into the opposition`s final third, yet once there, they seemed to be short on creativity or the necessary drive to exploit the space. The tactical decision to have Moisés Caicedo invert from the right-back position seemed questionable. The more this developing team mirrors Maresca`s tactical blueprint, the less they appear to challenge opposing defences effectively.
Had Everton been playing with any meaningful objectives at stake, having long since confirmed another season in the top flight, this match could have been a formidable challenge for Chelsea. Instead, the visitors effectively gifted Chelsea the winning goal. Jordan Pickford`s weak, low pass into midfield immediately placed pressure on Beto. Trevoh Chalobah capitalized, picking Beto`s pocket from behind while Enzo Fernández closed in from the front. The Argentine midfielder quickly shifted the ball to Jackson, whose precise, low shot was placed beyond Pickford`s reach.
Within a Chelsea lineup that otherwise seemed devoid of attacking impetus, Jackson was a notable exception. His movement was intelligent, frequently dropping into the space in front of Jarrad Branthwaite and Jake O`Brien rather than engaging directly with Everton`s physically imposing centre-backs. When possession was lost, he diligently worked back towards his own goal to help recover the ball. His finish for the goal was excellent, and he nearly added a second but was narrowly offside when turning in a rebound from Marc Cucurella`s effort. Despite a recent spell of 12 games without scoring that may have led to some frustration among fans, Jackson`s performance demonstrated his value and suggests he should play a key role in Chelsea`s future plans.
Noni Madueke also provided sparks, proving a lively presence after being moved to the left flank. However, the contributions of these two players alone weren`t enough to ensure a comfortable victory. Goalkeeper Robert Sánchez was called upon to deliver an assured performance late in the game to repel Everton`s attempts. He made smart saves twice, first from Beto and then from Dwight McNeil, as time expired for the visiting Toffees.
Given that their opponents had nothing left to play for, the victory should not have been this difficult. Maresca`s side have kept their ambitions for a top-five finish achievable, with their fate still resting in their own hands as they approach the season`s conclusion. However, repeating this level of performance in their upcoming matches, particularly away from home, could lead to very difficult situations for Chelsea.
Dominic Ashworth