Everton got to within two points of Premier League safety with a crucial win over Chelsea, aided by a raucous atmosphere at Goodison Park.

Starting the day five points below Leeds and Burnley in the relegation zone, the hosts were boosted by their fans in their bid to extend their 68-year run in the Premier League.

Richarlison dispossessed Cesar Azpilicueta on the edge of the area and scored his ninth goal of the season a minute after the halftime to reward Everton’s persistent pressing.

The Brazilian celebrated by grabbing a smoke grenade that had dropped on the turf and tossing it back into the spectators.

Soon after, Vitalii Mykolenko had a chance to increase the advantage but strayed wide, and Everton relied on two incredible saves from Jordan Pickford to keep them in ahead.

After Mason Mount’s strike hit both posts and bounced out, the Everton goalkeeper denied Azpilicueta. Pickford then took Antonio Rudiger’s shot full in the face from the subsequent corner, requiring medical attention.

It was a fantastic effort from the England goalkeeper, who also made a save from Ruben Loftus-Cheek, but it typified Everton’s mentality as they dug in to prevent Thomas Tuchel’s side, even if the German was not pleased.

Late goals from Demarai Gray and Anthony Gordon may have put the game out of reach, but Frank Lampard’s team held on to record only his fourth Premier League victory in 13 games as manager.

With the Toffees having a game in hand on their relegation rivals, the win proved crucial in closing the gap behind Leeds and Burnley.

Chelsea, on the other hand, will be disappointed that they were unable to convert their possession into goals, with their preparations disrupted by fireworks let off outside their hotel late at night.

Tuchel claimed they had no impact on his team’s preparations, but he was forced to ponder a loss that may jeopardize their prospects of finishing third.

By beating West Ham later on Sunday, Arsenal can close the gap to three points.