Chelsea recorded their first Premier League clean sheet in nine months, since a 2-0 win over Brentford in January.
Although Alonso said he was “not obsessed” with keeping a clean sheet, his side, who had conceded a record 13 league goals before kick-off, were keen to break that record after a much-improved 5-1 win over Bournemouth after the international break.
There had also been talk of Chelsea being a “soft” team, particularly away in the north of England, having lost 19 of their previous 41 matches at north Luton in the last four years.
Last season, Chelsea lost 3-0 at Everton during Liam Rosenior’s five-match winless run, a run which ultimately cost him his job. The Blues had also won just one of their last nine matches against the Toffees.
This time, however, Everton managed just six shots, the fewest in a Premier League match since recording five against Arsenal last December.
Chelsea have also conceded just one clear-cut opportunity and have allowed their lowest expected goals against (xG) against top opposition this season at 0.45.
They started with a back three of Josh Acheampong, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill, while goalscorer Neto and Jorrel Hato, who provided the assist, operated as full-backs.
The midfield duo of Moises Caicedo, returning from international duty, and new signing Jordan Henderson also brought much-needed strength and experience.
However, it was club-record £117m signing Morgan Rogers who set the tone for a combative display, taking on Everton defender James Tarkowski during a hectic first half.
“We had to show that we can win in this way,” added Alonso. “We looked solid, we played solid, we were strong and we stayed in control.
“In the first half there were difficult periods with throw-ins, corners and pressure from Everton. We have to overcome those moments.
“In the Premier League it is very difficult to have complete control in an away game, but you cannot lose your form or your belief.”
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