Grant admits Blues rode luck after slender win over Boro
Avram Grant's side clash with Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on April 26th
Sunday, 30, Mar 2008 08:53
Chelsea boss Avram Grant admitted his side were extremely lucky to beat Middlesbrough 1-0 at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues maintained their four-year unbeaten home record thanks to an early goal from Ricardo Carvalho.
But Gareth Southgate's side bombarded the Blues' goal in the second half and hit the woodwork three times.
Substitute Alfonso Alves hit the post with an open goal to aim at and headed against the bar, while defender David Wheater also headed against the crossbar.
Grant, whose side remain five points behind leaders Manchester United, admitted his side were below-par.
"I cannot say that it was our best game, but it was important for us to win rather than have quality in the game," Grant said.
"They were unlucky but we also created some good chances from open play.
"We started very well and, maybe because of that, we thought it would be easy. But by not making it 2-0, it became a good chance for the other team.
"I think we deserved the win. At this stage of the season, it's about winning. We have to keep winning and hope that when United come here it'll be important."
The Blues face Fenerbahce away in the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, followed by a trip to Eastlands to face Manchester City next Saturday.