Chelsea secured a vital three points in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, defeating a resurgent Brentford side 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. The victory sees the Blues leapfrog their opponents in the table and move to within two points of fourth-placed Liverpool.
Rosenior's First League Test Passed Amid Squad Illness
The match marked Liam Rosenior's first league game in charge of Chelsea, representing a significant test against a Brentford team in fine recent form. Goals from Joao Pedro in the first half and a late Cole Palmer penalty sealed the win for the home side with 14 minutes remaining.
However, Rosenior revealed after the match that his preparations and the team's performance were hampered by an illness sweeping through the squad. "It's running through the squad," Rosenior stated. "There were a couple of players playing today who were complaining about their chests. They put in a magnificent effort."
He confirmed that both Liam (likely a staff member or player) and young star Estevao were affected, with the latter suffering from a fever. "We just have to be really adaptable," he added, explaining the impact on Chelsea's style. "I felt that's why we weren't good with the ball... but I'm so happy with the attitude of the group to get through this game."
Andrews' Frustration as Brentford Feel Unfairly Treated
Despite the scoreline, Brentford manager Keith Andrews believed his team's performance warranted a better result. Speaking to BBC Sport, he pointed to his side's control of the game against Chelsea's expensive midfield.
"Sometimes the game isn't fair. Ultimately, you've got to take the chances," Andrews said. "Coming to Stamford Bridge - a midfield that's worth £200m - and controlling large parts of it, I don't see a confidence issue."
He defended Brentford's recent away form, highlighting their victories in the previous two games on the road and insisting their performance levels have remained high.
Looking Ahead for Both Sides
For Chelsea and Rosenior, the result provides a crucial confidence boost. The new boss acknowledged his team did not play the "free-flowing football" he ultimately desires, but was pleased to "get the job done." The win solidifies their push for European qualification.
For Brentford, the defeat is a setback but not a disaster. Andrews' analysis suggests a team that is competing well but needs to find greater ruthlessness in front of goal to turn performances into points, especially against top-half opposition.
The result on 17th January 2026 reshuffles the pack in the race for the top four, with Chelsea now holding the initiative over Thomas Frank's Bees.
