Goalkeeper Petr Cech has hailed Chelsea's "character and determination" after they ground out a 2-1 win at Blackburn on Saturday.
The Premier League leaders went behind in the first half at Ewood Park as Benjani notched for Rovers, marking the striker's first goal in 23 months.
Nicolas Anelka scored the equaliser for the Blues before Branislav Ivanovic snatched a late winner, but the champions' showing was far from their most encouraging of the campaign.
However Cech, whose solid individual display was a bright point in Chelsea's afternoon, praised his side for showing their resolve even when their performance was not up to scratch.
"It's important when you don't play well that you pick up points," said Cech in the Daily Express.
"That makes the difference. It was a positive performance in terms of showing the character and determination to win.
"Everything didn't go well but we still won, and this was a massive three points. Manchester City lost, the gap is still five points which is good and we have put pressure on the other teams."
Carlo Ancelotti's side travel to Liverpool next weekend ahead of clashes with Tottenham, Manchester United and Arsenal over the Christmas period.
Cech knows it is crucial the Blues continue their dominance against their fellow 'Big Four' clubs after securing a perfect record on their way to the title last season.
He added: "The other advantage is we play everyone around us - the top four and those trying to get there - at a time of no Champions League.
"Last season the key was we won all those head-to-head games against the top four."
