Stamford Bridge played its role as Nicolas Jackson scored the goal that gave Chelsea a much needed win against Brighton in the third round of Carabao Cup.
The Blues had come into the game on a four game winless run and and that showed in a very nervy first half where they were happy to let Brighton have the ball and dominate proceeding.
Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez gifted Brighton forward Joao Pedro a pass but the Brighton striker, caught totally unaware lifted his effort over the bar to the relief of the over 30,000 Chelsea fans in the stadium and million across the world.
Chelsea have spent almost a £1billion in transfer since their new owners took over, but it was Brighton who looked the sharpest and more cordinanted before Cole Palmer, making his full debut for the club arrested the game with a brilliant moment of skill to play a pass between the legs of Brighton defender Paul Van Hecke and set up Nicolas Jackson to bury home confidently.
His celebration was more of relief than excitement after missing seven chances in his last seven games, the pressure was building and the return of Armando Broja meant his days as the lead striker were numbered if he did not start scoring.
Brighton as has often been the case, continued to trust in their style of play and for much of the remaining game will have more possession- but it was Chelsea who created the better openings. Jackson again with an opportunity to seal the win but his finish was ruled out for an offside.
Chelsea held on to record a much needed win to progress to the next round. Here is how we rated the players out there.
1. Robert Sanchez 4.5
Incredibly unlucky not to concede after gifting Joao Pedro the ball. Looked nervous when playing out from the back. Great save in the second half.
2. Cole Palmer- 6
Started in the No 10 role and even though he showed flashes of brilliance, he just did not get going before a brilliant assist saved the day.
3. Nicolas Jackson-7
Uses so much energy in winning the ball back and when he got into the critical area he just could not master the energy to finish. Smart strike for his goal.
4. Marc Cucurella-6
Was paired against the electric Mitoma. Held his own for the majority of the game even if he did not attack as much he would have liked.