Boss praises both Kirkland and Heskey after heroic draw.

Wigan drew 1-1 at Barclays Premier League title hopefuls Chelsea on Monday night to increase the points tally to 35 for the season. Emile Heskey converted substitute Jason Koumas' cross in the second minute of stoppage time to stun Chelsea and earn the draw.

Chris Kirkland earned praise from Bruce after making brilliant saves to deny Salomon Kalou and Nicolas Anelka at Stamford Bridge. In the post match press conference, Bruce said, "This is a great result because for a spell Chelsea looked like they might blow us away.

"But we stuck at it and Chris [Kirkland] has made some brilliant saves and we got our reward in the end. He is an outstanding goalkeeper and if he stays fit there are not many much better than him."

Steve Bruce also spoke highly of goal hero Heskey after the match, saying, "He is the best English centre forward of his type, and all the partners he has ever played alongside, such as Michael Owen have enjoyed playing with him because he can lead the line so well.

"He might not be prolific, but he gives you something with his pace and his power and his technique is very good. He is a very important player for us."

Latics are now six points clear of the relegation zone, and there are now just four games remaining before the end of the season. The gaffer admitted that the club are closer than ever to making sure they secure a fourth consecutive season of top flight football at the JJB Stadium.

"We have now got 35 points and that has usually been enough over the last five years. It is a wonderful achievement and we are looking like a decent team at the minute."

Wigan World subscribers can watch the whole of the post match interview with Steve Bruce on Wigan World soon.