Juan Mata felt it was crucial that Chelsea defeated Arsenal 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
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The Blues had not won at home since thrashing Aston Villa 8-0 in December, but crept closer to Manchester City following goals from Mata and Frank Lampard.
Theo Walcott pulled one back as the Gunners improved in the second half, but Rafael Benitez's side held on for all three points.
After the game, Mata said: "It was very important for our supporters after four or five without winning at Stamford Bridge.
"Against our rivals like Arsenal, one of the best in the Premier League, it was a very good win.
"It was important to score in the first minutes and we played more relaxed. In the first half we played really well and created a lot of chances. In the second half... Arsenal have some top players.
"We knew they would try and score and they got a beautiful goal through Theo Walcott. They always play to score and win.
"Today's game was important for us in different ways. We first kept going and reduced the gap to Manchester United and City. Then we played well in front of our supporters, who were very nervous."
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