Thomas Tuchel has admitted the role the Everton crowd played on Chelsea's loss at Goodison Park on Sunday, but he wasn't surprised by the nature of the atmosphere.
The Blues secured a crucial 1-0 win at the weekend thanks to Richarlison's strike early in the second half, capitalising on a mistake from Cesar Azpilicueta. Jordan Pickford was called into action with some stunning saves to keep Frank Lampard's side in front, and make sure they secured a vital three points.
The mood was set by supporters outside the stadium as they organised an incredible welcome for the home team, with thousands lining the streets with flares and flags outside Goodison. That noise then transferred onto the pitch, but it didn't surprise Tuchel.
READ MORE: Everton is no ordinary club and massive double victory just proved it
RATINGS: Everton player ratings as Jordan Pickford sensational and Richarlison great vs Chelsea
He bemoaned another individual mistake which cost his side, and admitted that it was the worst thing they could have done in giving the home crowd yet more belief.
The Chelsea manager told his post-match press conference: "Very disappointed. We knew what was coming, and like in the last matches, we struggled to have clean sheets. In the last four matches, we have one clean sheet against West Ham, and it is the only win we have. So very disappointed.
"What was coming from the opponent, the crowd, and the way to approach the game. We knew that, and nobody was surprised
"What can I do? The ball is free, then give a goal away. It is the worst thing that can happen to you in this atmosphere and situation. It happens too often, and we struggle to play without big mistakes. That's why we struggle to have results."
The match was a hotly-contested affair with tackles flying in and players sometimes angrily coming face-to-face with each other throughout the game. Tuchel wasn't happy with the way the referee dealt with many incidents, but again he expected Everton to play in that manner and was not critical of their style.
He added: "No, no, we expected it. It would have been nice to have a referee who was in charge of it – they got away with a lot. He decided to manage the game the way he did, and I was not too happy with it, but it's his way.
"That is why it is important to not do any mistakes, install belief, and to keep doing what we do on the highest level of focus. We struggled."
