Xabi Alonso has conceded that Chelsea lost their grip on the game during a damaging 3-0 defeat to Brentford on Friday evening, adding that he agreed with Levi Colwill's assessment that his side were bullied at set pieces.

The result was a bruising one for Chelsea, who offered little resistance as Brentford dominated the physical battle throughout the match. Colwill had been candid after the final whistle, suggesting the team were outmuscled in dead-ball situations — a view Alonso did not dispute.

The defeat will raise serious questions about Chelsea's ability to handle the intensity of opponents who thrive on aerial duels and direct play, with Brentford exposing clear weaknesses in the Chelsea backline.