Maresca Hails Nasty Chelsea As Top Five Bid Stays Alive

Enzo Maresca saluted Chelseas nasty performance as a gritty 1-0 win over Everton on Saturday kept alive their bid to qualify for the Champions League.

Nicolas Jackson struck for the first time since December to seal a vital victory at Stamford Bridge.

The Senegal strikers first half blast from 20 yards moved Chelsea back into the Premier Leagues top five as they fight for a place in next seasons Champions League.

Chelseas third win in their last five league games eased the pressure on Maresca, who has come under fire for his teams cautious tactics during their slump in the second half of the season.

Once again they endured a nervy finale as keeper Robert Sanchez made two fine saves to preserve the lead.