Emma Hayes believes Chelsea looked off the pace as they beat Everton 1-0 in the Women's FA Cup quarter-finals thanks to Catarina Macario's goal.

The Blues struggled to break down the Toffees for large periods, with substitute Macario's classy strike eventually getting the job done at Walton Hall Park.

After the match, Hayes, 47, said: "I think you can tell we've had a lot of games in quick succession.

"Third away game in a week, I thought we were sluggish in everything we did.

"Outstanding to get the result. The difference for us was Cat and that little bit of class.

"It was the one bit of quality we needed to win the game.

"We took it and you have to credit the players that have played three games in a week.

"They've done a tremendous job playing three games and Zecira Musovic made an outstanding save to keep us in the game.

"I thought Everton played well and probably deserved more from the game, but this is what you have to do. You have to grind results out. We did just about enough."

Everton, who have endured a tough campaign, enjoyed a respectable 44% possession against the Women's Super League champions and registered more shots on target.

But Chelsea ultimately had the extra quality with 24-year-old Macario, who was relieved to have helped her side get over the line with her second goal for the club.

She added: "It was a tough game. We struggled a little bit.

"Everton had a lot of chances but I do think that when we made the changes and after half-time we came out really well and came out with the win, which is the most important thing.

"It's only my second game. I am very happy to have scored and to be contributing to the win. It feels amazing and I hope to keep that form going."