Antonio Conte believes Chelsea was good value for its 1-0 Premier League home win over West Brom despite struggling to break down the visitors' defence.
Conte's men went back to the top of the table on Sunday as Diego Costa's 12th goal of the season in the 76th minute proved enough to see off a dogged West Brom side.
Clear-cut chances proved difficult for Chelsea to come by for much of the contest prior to Costa's individual effort, which secured a ninth successive league win for the London club.
"We must know the other teams try to block our football and for this reason it's important to play with patience," Conte told BBC Sport.
"Then you must pay attention, avoid the counter attack. We had a dangerous opponent, but we were good for commitment and work rate. We deserved to win.
"We have won nine in a row which is fantastic because this league is very tough. We are working very well.
"I think West Brom prepared well defensively and tried to close every space. This game if you find the goal quickly, you can have an easier game. When you don't find the goal, it becomes more difficult but we were very good to find in the right moment to do it."
Costa's 12 goals have come in 15 league games, with the former Atletico Madrid striker having been directly involved in 17 goals this campaign.
Speaking to BT Sport, Conte added: "Diego Costa has fantastic commitment and work rate during the game with and without the ball.
"He was good to score the goal. He is playing fantastic football and it's important because he is working a lot for the team."
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