Everton 1 - 0 Arsenal

The winds of change blew through Goodison Park again — not in the Boardroom, of course; on that score, protest was in the air but so once more was defiance and a refusal on the part of almost 40,000 Evertonians to let this club sink without a fight. Sean Dyche took his place in Everton’s dugout (or, more accurately, the touchline where, in contrast to his more passive predecessor, he was a constantly animated and vocal presence) for the first time and oversaw one of those electrifying home wins over a superior foe amid an atmosphere that cows visiting teams regardless of their talent and standing.

Likely needing at least seven more wins to stay up, this was one of the most difficult of Everton’s remaining assignments this season. Arsenal, unbeaten in the Premier League since September under Mikel Arteta, are an excellent side yet there were precious few moments during the 90 minutes where they were allowed to exhibit their quality. In all, they had just three shots on target and only one of them, a powerful drive from substitute Leandro Trossard 12 minutes from time, really tested Jordan Pickford.

Another effort from Bukayo Saka in the first half, might well have gone in a week ago but this time, the positioning of Conor Coady, rejuvenated and inspired along with the rest of the Blues’ team in a highly-organised 4-5-1 formation, was exemplary and he cleared his England squad-mate’s volley off the line.

Eddie Nketiah and Martin Ødegaard wasted the other couple of decent chances that fell Arsenal’s way but, in truth, the best opportunities came at the other end and had Everton won by two or three goals, Arteta probably couldn't have had many complaints. They might have done had Abdoulaye Doucouré and Dominic Calvert-Lewin not spurned excellent headed chances in the later stages of the first half but James Tarkowski’s first goal for the Toffees, fittingly enough scored under the coach who really made him as a player, was all that was needed.

Since Marco Silva was sacked in 2019 as Everton dropped into the bottom three for the second time in as many years and an air of panic set in, the need for these kinds of backs-against-the-wall occasions at Goodison Park has become disconcertingly common.

Frank Lampard had a few, of course, not least his first Premier League home game against Leeds, where he appeared to have unlocked a more free-flowing Everton, those gritty, narrow wins over Manchester United, Newcastle and Chelsea, and the climax of his short reign, the emotional night against Crystal Palace last May.

Article continues below video content


Today was more reminiscent of the first game Duncan Ferguson oversaw in December 2019 against Chelsea — a high-octane, determined and feisty display that leveraged the power and tenacity in the squad together with that legendary 12th man in the stands. Fears that the demonstrations against the club’s hierarchy before kick-off, which saw thousands of Blues march from the Royal Oak, up Spellow Lane and around the Grand Old Lady, would detract from support for the team proved, predictably, unfounded as the fans raised the roof once more to roar home three points.

If Dyche’s arrival represented a clean slate for all, was illustrated clearly in Doucouré and Idrissa Gueye, two players at the heart of a nascent fracture in relations between Lampard and his dressing room. The Mali international had been banished from training with the first team by the former manager, apparently for sticking up for Gueye whose rapidly declining form was one of the most glaring symptoms of a failing team.

Not only did Doucouré start a Premier League game for the first time since August, he put in a terrific performance along with Gueye who, so wasteful in possession as recently as the last game at West Ham a fortnight ago, finished the match with a 100% pass-completion rate. And though Amadou Onana had no need to convince anyone of his worth to the side, the Belgian was a colossus in central midfield.

Dwight McNeil, meanwhile, heavily criticised for his work rate in recent matches, got the nod ahead of Demarai Gray, who wasn’t risked due to a slight groin strain, and he not only weighed in with the dead-ball assist for the game’s only goal, he combined with Alex Iwobi to provide the kind of cover and assistance to full-backs Vitalii Mykolenko and the age-defying Seamus Coleman that was also so lacking in the final days of the previous managerial regime.

McNeil had the first shot in anger in the ninth minute of the game, a deflected effort that spun towards Calvert-Lewin who was offside even though Aaron Ramsdale beat him to the ball.

Thomas Partey tested Pickford with a low drive that the England keeper gathered at the second attempt in the 12th minute before Calvert-Lewin forced a save from Ramsdale with a drive from the angle following an Iwobi flick-on and Onana tried to capitalise on a mistake by the keeper but couldn’t chip him from 25 yards out.

Everton had largely kept Arsenal at arm’s length for the first half hour but when Bukayo Saka rolled the otherwise impressive Vitalii Mykolenko, it set Eddie Nketiah up for a clear effort on goal but he lashed it wide.

And six minutes before the interval, Saka’s side-foot volley was searching out the bottom corner with Pickford beaten but Conor Coady had positioned himself superbly to hack it off the line by the far post.

Either side of that chance, Everton had carved out some of their best opportunities of the game, first when the irrepressible Onana drove down the left flank and slid a ball across the face of goal that was just too far ahead of Calvert-Lewin’s lunge.

A minute later, McNeil picked up a Calvert-Lewin flick and picked out Doucouré with a cross but the midfielder failed to make proper contact and headed well wide while Calvert-Lewin had a similar chance in first-half stoppage time but also glanced Iwobi’s cross wide with the goal gaping.

Everton started the second half the same way they had begun the first, with a deflected shot from the vastly-improved Idrissa Gueye prompting a reaction save from Ramsdale but Arsenal began to assert themselves in the manner in which Dyche must have been expecting they would given their quality and patience under Mikel Arteta.

Nketiah got free of Coleman near the byline and cut it back for Ødegaard but, thankfully, he skied his effort from the edge of the box and two minutes later it was 1-0 after Everton won a corner on the right.

McNeil swung it in and Tarkowski muscled his way past Ødergaard to meet it and guided a header back across goal past Ramsdale before wheeling away in celebration of his first goal for the Toffees.

Dyche had been readying Neal Maupay and he threw the Frenchman on in place of Calvert-Lewin who had played despite a slight hamstring issue and the Blues dug in for the final half hour.

A check by Video Assistant Referee John Brooks confirmed referee David Coote’s assessment that Maupay had not fouled Gabriel in the box amid howls for a penalty from the visitors in the 65th minute.

Then Trossard stung Pickford’s palms with that strong shot that was beaten away and cleared before the Belgian missed the target with a curling attempt a few minutes later.

Arsenal were increasingly desperate by the end and were finding their hosts hard to break down and they would have just one more chance to salvage a point in stoppage time but Zinchenko blasted it over the bar. And then, mercifully, it was over after six minutes of injury time, the referee’s whistle triggering relief and celebration in the stands.

This wasn't quintessential Dyche-ball as his reputation perhaps unfairly painted him at Burnley. Yes, the Blues went direct when they needed and the deciding goal came off a set-piece but the new boss had clearly set out to put legs in midfield and marry the technical ability and speed over the ground that exists in the team with its physicality and aerial ability.

When combined with a disciplined shape and an effective mid-block without the ball, it's a formula that should stand him in very good stead. 

Dyche was right, however, when he stressed in his post-match comments that today is just a start. Wolves’s win over Liverpool and West Ham’s strong performance at Newcastle illustrate how difficult the fight is going to be at the bottom over the remainder of the season.

It is going to take eight more performances of high effort and concentration at Goodison and some vastly improved results away from home if survival is to be achieved but this win over the worthy League leaders definitely points the way.

The manager indicated that his players will be back at Finch Farm on Monday to continue the work needed to build up their fitness and sharpness as they prepare for a Merseyside derby that looks a little more tasty than it might have done a week ago. Dyche will, no doubt, be relishing it.

Follow @EFCLyndon


Reader Comments (90)

Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer ()


Iakovos Iasonidis
1 Posted 04/02/2023 at 21:15:45
That was sweet! We actually played quite well. It wasn't Allardyce kind of football, it was brave and with purpose. Liverpool losing though makes it even harder for us next week.

Fans just want full commitment and will always back whoever wears an Everton shirt.

Dennis Stevens
2 Posted 04/02/2023 at 21:33:01
I should imagine we'd be near the top of the list of visitors they'd least like to have to welcome to their pit next week.
Paul Kernot
3 Posted 04/02/2023 at 21:34:59
What a win.

I said on a thread last week that today wasn't so much about the result but how we played — and hell, did we play! I know we've been here before but that was great to watch.

As always, I was nervous for the last 15 minutes but we weren't exactly hanging on Alamo style like in the recent past. I was concerned when Dyche replaced Dom with Maupay. Was that a match fitness thing or to maintain the pace and press?

Dare I hope we can repeat that result next week? Now that would be something.

Onana was my MotM, closely followed by Doucouré.

Gary Russell
4 Posted 04/02/2023 at 21:45:33
I disagree, Lakovos. It's neither easier or not. It's a derby game. Can go either way, more so than any other game.

And after today's result, we should be hopeful the lads have a good state of mind going into the game at Anfield. Bring it on.

Paul Kernot
5 Posted 04/02/2023 at 21:54:45
Bring it on, indeed, Gary, but I agree that derbies are a bit of a lottery. Our confidence is so fragile at the moment that, if any team, let alone the shite, score early, it could go wrong big time.

After today though, we'll go into next week's game well-drilled and organised and just that bit fitter hopefully. Can't wait!

Jerome Shields
6 Posted 04/02/2023 at 22:34:09
I thought Everton played very well. All the players gave a good account of themselves; some could improve, but that will come with this manager.

At last, Goodison is a fortress again with the team and fans as one.

Nicolas Piñon
7 Posted 04/02/2023 at 22:40:48
Great win!

Why did Calvert Lewin come off? We really need him.

Very good playing Doucouré behind the striker. That position suits him very well. Nice team selection from Dyche in my opinion. I just wish Mykolenko had just a bit more imagination going forward.

Onana MotM: he is our beast!

COYB!

John Raftery
8 Posted 04/02/2023 at 22:42:58
Who needs new signings?! Sean Dyche must have been very pleased with the way his players responded to his clear instructions. A compact formation and solid defensive shape were vital ingredients in this wonderful victory.

On New Year's Eve, our players had demonstrated they were capable of playing that way in the draw at Manchester City. It remains a mystery to me why Lampard chose not to persist with it. I doubt the new man will change a winning formula.

There were strong performances around the team with every player applying himself to the task allotted to him. The closing down at the front of the team was more joined up than in recent games with Calvert-Lewin, Onana and Doucouré choosing the best moments to disrupt The Gunners' passing moves.

There were several candidates for Man of the Match. Calvert-Lewin was excellent for the hour he was on the pitch. Onana showed poise and physicality in abundance in midfield. McNeil, written off by so many, worked his socks off while delivering some excellent crosses and set-pieces.

Doucouré made a very welcome return to the fold. Mykolenko stuck to his brief commendably against a very dangerous opponent, Saka. Tarkowski stood strong in the middle of the defence before and after notching the winner.

I thought the most telling contribution came from Gana who was once more the heartbeat in central midfield, providing the shield in front of the defence, winning possession and using it quickly. He was helped enormously by the extra pair of legs in midfield and not having to cover the vast acreage expected of him under Lampard.

As others have commented, the secret today was requiring individuals to do things within their capability. As a team, they looked confident, assured, and once they went ahead, determined to hold the advantage. This was far cry from the limp, disorganised showings we have witnessed of late.

As for the manager, it was interesting to see him applauding every cross into the box. The fact there were crosses into the box was in itself very welcome after the hesitancy displayed over the last few months. He was also constantly waving his team backwards, forwards and sideways to maintain the compact shape needed to combat Arsenal's possession game.

While the 3 points were insufficient to lift us out of the Bottom 3, there was evidence today the squad has enough quality and the manager enough knowledge and experience at least to make us competitive in what will obviously still be a tough battle to avoid relegation. Previously we had looked destined to go down with a whimper. Next stop: Anfield.

Mike Gaynes
9 Posted 04/02/2023 at 22:52:31
John, great summary.

Nicolas, I presume Calvert-Lewin came off because of a fitness issue... perhaps he's not yet 100%. It looked pre-planned to me -- Maupay was already off the bench and ready when the goal was scored.

Mark Murphy
10 Posted 04/02/2023 at 23:02:47
Roughly speaking, Dyche done a great job!

UTFT

John Raftery
11 Posted 04/02/2023 at 23:06:18
Thanks, Mike.

I have read Calvert-Lewin has a hamstring issue which presumably is being managed by restricting his minutes on the pitch and in training sessions.

Lyndon Lloyd
12 Posted 04/02/2023 at 23:22:24
*Ahem*

Nicholas and Mike, paragraph 20:

"Dyche immediately withdrew Calvert-Lewin who had played despite a slight hamstring issue and threw on Neal Maupay and the Blues dug in for the final half hour."

Barry Hesketh
13 Posted 04/02/2023 at 23:39:35
Maupay, what is he good for?

Absolutely nothing; he might prove me wrong over time but I just can't see what he offers to the team.

James Kirrane
14 Posted 04/02/2023 at 23:43:43
A terrific all-round performance. Disciplined, well-organized and aggressive. Every single player put in a shift. Well done Everton and Sean Dyche.
Jerome Shields
15 Posted 05/02/2023 at 05:31:34
Barry#13

He will be one of the improvers.He is a alternative style of play to Calvert Lewin and will benefit from the more direct/ get the ball forward approach of Dyche.Mau pay isn't a physical player so will benefit from such monentum.He also is prepared to defend deep and is effective at it when the game tightens up.

Mc Neill is also not a physical player, but benefits from this same momentum.On watching the match replay McNeill under Dyche is less light weight putting in his share of tackles.It is increasingly looking that quite a few players did not understand what was being asked of them under Frank.I always remember Paul Clements on the touchline flicking through a full 10 pocket folder giving a Sub instructions before he went on to play..I thought that it was blandly obvious that thosev instructions where not going in one ear, never mind going out the other..

Whilst Everton played well and won well, other Premier League Clubs will be analysing how they played to death, looking for ways to stop them playing and finding weaknesses to exploit.Dyche will need to have alternatives and different players for different games.I have been very impressed how Dyche set up the team against Arsenal and managed tactics during the game.He was really on the ball as far as instructing individual players and seems very aware of where they team are at and where to need to improve and adapt in the future.I expect now the players know that they are going to be provided with positions from which they can actually score they will become more clinical, knowing what they have to improve on.It really was a impressive performance from the Manager.The players are also aware that they have a Manager who knows what he is about.

It was lucky that Calvert Lewin only had a tightens in his hamstring.IMO problems with hamstrings are the result of a lack of resilience training, something that I have always thought Mina shied away from.Dyche will have his own input into that with Medical services.If he is as foresight as he appears to be, Medical Services maybe will have no alternative but to change and work with him.I can't see Dyche being overruled by a physiotherapist.

Dyche very much comes across as someone who knows what he is talking about and what he wants.Even in interviews his explanations are detailed and full of awareness.There is not a inkling of BS about him.

Bob Parrington
16 Posted 05/02/2023 at 06:05:38
We kept it simple, no stuffing around at the back and played to our strengths.

Good management by Dyche. Only thing that concerned me was putting Maupay on, rather than Simms. Maybe he did this as Maupay has that way of getting in the face of the opposition – which he did clearly in the dying minutes.

Well done, guys and fantastic Everton fans.

Martin Davies
17 Posted 05/02/2023 at 06:54:52
Fantastic. The only thing is … I'd gone through disbelief, anger and denial, settling firmly in resignation to relegation. I was sure we'd be one of the 3 worst teams in the league. Now I'm not so sure. Straight back to disbelief.

Dammit, it's the hope that kills me.

UTFT

Darren Hind
18 Posted 05/02/2023 at 07:04:54
Good article, Lyndon...

Idrissa – 100% pass rate? ... I hadn't realised. Although my lad did say on the way out that he hadn't put a foot wrong all afternoon. What a difference a Gueye makes.

I suspect Doucoure was one of the players Frank Lampard was talking about after the Bournemouth cup game when he complained about players constantly knocking on his door, then not producing when they were given a chance.

He played like he had a point to prove. He was great. If these two can perform like that until the end of the season, we can start looking up instead of down.

Onana could be anything. He has been caught in possession more times than a one-legged thief this season, but he has just about everything in his locker. Power, pace and wonderful skills. His growling and gesturing to the crowd after chasing down a lost cause yesterday had them eating out of his hands. If we can keep a player with his talent and in this form for a few seasons, we can look forward to a future where going to the match will once again be a pleasure rather than a duty.

Calvert-Lewin looks a far better player when the ball is played directly up to him. A real handful. I think he will like playing for Dyche.

Iwobi's work was lung-bursting and impressive. Even McNeil came right out of his shell – where has that confidence been?

Without having to play to me, to you and with much better protection, I thought our centre-backs had their best game but it was our full-backs who pleased me most. Martinelli and Saka have wreaked havoc this season – neither got any change at all out of Seamus and Mykolenko.

I worry about Seamus, but he used every bit of his experience to keep Martinelli quiet yesterday and it was a joy to watch.

Dyche has pointed the way. The players now need to keep following his directions.

Who knows? A dozen or so games like this and we could all start getting a decent night's sleep.

It wasn't always pretty, but it was always beautiful!

Bill Gienapp
19 Posted 05/02/2023 at 07:21:08
It's easy to get carried away with a new manager (and as others have pointed out, basically everyone in the Moshiri era has gotten off to a strong start – Lampard's being slightly more checkered)... but it's hard not to respond to the cut of Dyche's jib.

I particularly liked how he seemed to appreciate the Arsenal result without being overly impressed by it. "Back to work on Monday and on to the next match" was the prevailing attitude.

He also comes across as a stern taskmaster – but always with a bit of a twinkle in his eye, which I imagine goes a long way in the dressing room.

We've been saying "cometh the hour, cometh the man" for years now (usually with our fingers crossed)... but maybe, just maybe the sentiment will prove prophetic for once.

Gareth Williams
20 Posted 05/02/2023 at 07:50:47
A great performance! They were a different team today. Frank Lampard should have gone last November after the two Bournemouth games.
Mike Gaynes
21 Posted 05/02/2023 at 07:51:55
Bill, I'd say we may just have finally found the right horse for this course.

Lyndon, I saw that paragraph but decided not to point out that it wasn't precisely correct. Maupay wasn't "thrown on" as a result of the goal. He was already up, stripped for action and taking a last swallow of water just behind Dyche when the goal went in.

Mal van Schaick
22 Posted 05/02/2023 at 07:59:23
Obviously, it is what we have been lacking in that we created chances for goal scoring opportunities.

The players worked tirelessly, especially in midfield, proving that the amount of effort from the team reaped just rewards, and a valuable win.

My only reservation is that, when Maupay came on, we didn't look the same side up front, but I couldn't fault his effort either. If Maupay concentrated more on his playing side and not being mischievous with opponents, he would be a better forward producing the goals that we will need to retain our Premier League status.

Well done and let's hope that there is more to come a week tomorrow.

Andrew Heffernan
23 Posted 05/02/2023 at 08:14:32
Getting an extra 15-25% out of this group will improve confidence and performances and, despite obvious lack of firepower, we should get over the line. Well done, Sean Dyche and team – a lot more of this please. COYB
Terry Farrell
24 Posted 05/02/2023 at 08:32:57
The world seems a better place this morning and thank you, Sean Dyche – I had run out of lucky undies, lucky socks and lucky badges!!

Made up with every player and the crowd. Seamus, Onana, Doucouré, Dom were all sensational. Long way to go but great start.

Eddie Dunn
25 Posted 05/02/2023 at 08:33:45
Others, especially John and Darren, have summarised the match perfectly, so I will just make a couple of observations.

Dyche went straight down the tunnel after the whistle. He soon mentioned that it was back to work on Monday (as did Tarkowski a minute or two later). No milking the crowd.

It is clear that this group of players responded to the clear instructions and the demands made on them. Now we need them to back this up with a similar attitude at Anfield. Every man Jack of them stepped up a level.

Seamus was just sensational. At one point he sprinted to the byline and pinged over a perfect cross turning the clock back about 7 years! And the set-pieces were better than Gray's.

It's great to stroll around on a Sunday morning whistling a tune, watching the tits on my nuts.

Ian Bennett
26 Posted 05/02/2023 at 08:51:03
All the pundits and journalists could say is the players can't handle playing in a toxic atmosphere.

Let's get it right, yesterday was top class from our fans. They celebrated tackles and winning corners more than most fans do when they score.

3 points yesterday was greeted like we'd won the world cup. Clapped off at half time and full time, singing in the stands, singing in the streets.

If the players put the effort in, this fan base responds. It isn't the hardest fan base to please, at times it's the easiest.

Dave Abrahams
27 Posted 05/02/2023 at 08:57:01
Darren (18), I agree with your lad Gana was everywhere throughout the game part of a midfield trio that we hadn’t seen play like this all season, he was my MOTM but wouldn’t argue if Onana or Doucoure were picked by others, praise for Dyche and his coaches as well with every Evertonian present and those watching on tv willing us on part of a United Everton team.

It was only one game and we’ve got build on this remembering that a win is brilliant but a draw is mportant and think how the table would have looked with three draws versus Wolves, Southampton and West Ham with us three points better off and those three teams two points worse off. It’s far from over yet.

John Keating
28 Posted 05/02/2023 at 08:59:47
Brilliant performance and brilliant result
Everyone, including the fans, beeds to take a bow, well done

We knew Arsenal would have the ball more than us and set up with that in mind. Next week I have no doubt we will do similar at Mordor, hopefully it will get us the same result.
Against City, again, we set up knowing they would control the ball and again got a great result.

My big concern, and has been for a couple of seasons, is how we play when we come up against teams especially at home where sitting back and counterattacking is not really acceptable
The upcoming games against Leeds and Villa will be interesting.
Can Dyche set this lot up to take the game to “lesser” teams? Fingers crossed

Danny O’Neill
29 Posted 05/02/2023 at 08:59:49
Love that post Darren.

I'll get the negatives out of the way first on what was a great day out at was is my sacred home.

Bullied and abused on the way home by Arsenal fans and so called football supporters. I can take it as I have tough skin and can look after myself, but why not just accept you support different clubs and don't win every match? I had a great conversation in the taxi back to Lime Street with the driver. Kopite; we had a real genuine football conversation. I respect that.

Fortunately those idiots were removed from the train for snorting the white powder. Or unfortunately as it incurred a 45 minute delay at Stafford (I think) as the Police came on to physically remove them!, which then involved a debate I just wanted to get home as I was happy apart from the conversation I had with the dick who got told to calm down..

On Lyndon's report

Great write up. And Darren, great post. My thoughts in reflection.

The supporters were man of the match again. It was electric in the Gwladys Street.

Iwobi ran his socks off. I don't think we appreciate his effort and commitment enough. Always looking to create something.

I've been saying there is a player in McNeil; he just needs confidence and something to aim for. His delivery is really good and Calvert-Lewin should have had two. McNeil is still young. Give him time.

I suspect Dominic is going to come back on form once fully fit.

Onana was immense. I almost want him to calm down otherwise the Bank of Bill will come calling.

Tarkowski was awesome. I think he will thrive with Dyche in the chair.

Coady' kept us in the game. Great anticipation and instinct to clear that one off the line. Another breathless moment..

Seamus keeps defying gravity. He won't give in just like the supporters.

Pickford at half time was almost about to jump into the Gwladys Street!!

And last point, without sounding biased, that has to be one of the worse performances I've seen from an official that I can remember. It was like he was trying to be the 12th man in the Arsenal team to help them win.

Well you couldn't and you didn't.

A great start under the new manager. Let's keep it going.

And to the board. Shithouses. I don't care about the money, but that cost me a lot and I travelled roughly a 500 round trip to be there and be faced by Police and Stewards.

You couldn't be arsed. As an 80s boy, It's Graeme Sharp who disappoints me the most.

Well, I hope they have the balls to be at at Anfield. Because we will be.

Tony Abrahams
30 Posted 05/02/2023 at 09:05:54
I’ve got up this morning made a cup of coffee, (I’m going to listen to Dylan singing about coffee, after I’ve written this) put on my iPad to watch the highlights of Liverpool’s game yesterday, then scrolled down to read the comments because Klopp said they only lost two nil. (No wonder I’m in a happy mood)

Then I went on the echo page and found a must read story for every single Evertonian, which shows the honest values, and complete common sense, that Sean Dych, is going to bring to our club.

First I read that he’s told Onana, that he’s going to get Stefan Defour, to try and educate him about the premier league, and how he’s going to get him fitter and sharper, and more adapt at doing the dirty things, and then I read what I think is a must read for us fans.

How a fractured leg started the long running feud between Dyche and Klopp. They’ve got their manager, (they have always wanted it both ways) and hopefully and finally, we might just have ours🤞

Danny O’Neill
31 Posted 05/02/2023 at 09:18:19
I forgot to mention Gueye.

Very unassuning but worked hard and played a crucial role in breaking up play.He just gets on with his job.

Jeff Armstrong
32 Posted 05/02/2023 at 09:31:21
Great interview with Dyche on twatter if this link works.

https://twitter.com/everton/status/1621911157341552643?s=46&t=RwyZ-06lvtEjkj3sVGnNjw

Tony Everan
33 Posted 05/02/2023 at 09:46:32
Very happy this morning, a delight to see an organised team, balanced and working as it should. Sean Dyche is right, there are good players at Everton, but they need to be organised in the right set up and disciplined in their play. Dyche brought all of this to the table.

Outside of some top performances, something that really struck a chord was the fact that the manager, Woan and Stone were like having an extra man on the pitch, like another captain on the sidelines.

He was barking instructions after 15-20 minutes from the sidelines to the all important midfield. Using his voice and sign language, “ line of five “ “ line of five “. Telling Iwobi “get back and stay there “ .

This is a huge asset for us, having this vision and direction from the touch line. It influences games in real time, corrects errors in individual’s play and positioning, keeps the unit tight, organised and disciplined. It’s only good if the players respond to it and they did. Under Frank this aspect was non existent.

Players like Iwobi, Onana and McNeill need this direction and vocal reminders at the right times , to keep their focus at 100% on their responsibilities throughout the 90 minutes.

The way the midfield was set up yesterday was I think the key to the performance. It has balance and effectiveness. Gana deeper with Doucoure and Onana either side is a good combination. Iwobi and McNeill in the wider berths of that midfield five was a great call.

Both players are not out and out wingers, more midfielders who like to attack. These players add to the compactness of the midfield closing down space, whilst still offering the right balance for some attacking sorties and getting crosses in.

All in all a magnificent start to Sean Dyche’s reign. It was an encouraging first step on a very tricky path. If yesterday’s performance is repeated, and I see no reason why not, we should fear no one. There’s points for us in every match.

Onwards and upwards.

Jim Lloyd
34 Posted 05/02/2023 at 09:48:09
Darren (18)
"It wasn't always pretty, but it was always beautiful."
Says it all, mate...brilliant!

I'm going for a walk in about an hour, in beautiful Croxteth Hall Park. The sun is shining, the birds are singing and the R/S are whingeing. Magic :)

Brian Harrison
35 Posted 05/02/2023 at 09:49:17
We have all seen so many false dawns over the last 6 years that I promised myself no matter what happened yesterday, I would judge our new manager over a year. Like all new managers the intensity from players go up a notch for the first game or two, and players discarded by the previous manager have a point to prove. All of this happened yesterday, in some cases it was like watching a different player.
I have been critical of how Onana went missing in games for long periods, yesterday he didnt. We all know there is a player in there but for me hasnt shown it enough. Calvert Lewin another I have criticized but I saw more aggression from him than I have in a very long time. Gana was played in his best position and did what he does best broke up opposition attacks. Doucoure played like a man with a point to prove to his previous manager. Seamus who has nothing to prove to anyone let Martinelli know from the first minute who would be in charge of their encounter.
So the question has to be asked why have we had to wait so long for a performance like that, you proved against the league leaders that you can go toe to toe with them and come out best. But for months we have played a lot of the bottom placed teams and come off 2nd best.

One wonders if this change of manager had taken place months ago as some of us were asking maybe just maybe we wouldn't be in a relegation fight.
Finally to Sean Dyche and his coaches a great start but as he said himself its only a start and we will have to see if he can get that level of performance from this squad every week not just every Preston guild. I also liked the fact that Dyche didnt look for applause from the fans after the game, and let the players soak up the applause as he knows the job has only just started and it will still take a massive turnaround for us to avoid relegation, but at least now we have a manager who knows how to set a team up to ATTACK as well as defend.

Danny O’Neill
36 Posted 05/02/2023 at 09:56:56
Jim, having said all I can on yesterday. For now, most know me!!

Away from Everton, Croxteth Hall Park is indeed beautiful. I also think Speke Hall is a hidden gem.

And Calderstones Park.

My favourite was always Camp Hill in Woolton.

Blessed as a city for those paces.

Ajay Gopal
37 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:06:33
Some really good posts here - John Raftery (8), Jerome Shields (15), Darren (28) and Danny (29). It is great what a win does to the mood of the club and what a precious win it was! There is a huge amount of hard work to be done over the next 17 games, but I like that Sean is not getting carried away and nor is he basking in the moment. He is already looking forward to Monday. If we can perform in a similar way next week, it would require bad luck or bad refereeing to deny us a result.

A bit worried about the dramatic drop in our threat up front once Calvert-Lewin was substituted. God forbid he is out for any length of time, who would come in in his place? For that reason, I wish Dyche had brought in Simms instead of Maupay. But can’t gripe too much because the result was achieved yesterday.

My MOTM was McNeil - he worked his socks off and produced quite a few moments of magic including the telling corner. I feel slightly vindicated as I had been pitching that Everton buy him since a couple of years now. I strongly suspect that Garner and Davies will also come on well under Dyche’s tutelage.

In a way, I am glad we did not bring in anyone during this transfer window. They key change required was clearly to replace Lampard who was hopelessly out of his depth as a manager, great guy though he is. And the board may just have stumbled onto their most sensible decision in years!

Jim Lloyd
38 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:08:59
You're so right Danny,

We live in a city with many beautiful places. Ther old coast path from Speke airport to Hale lighthouse then a pint in the Childe of Hale.

Unheard of for years, but I've even bought the Liverpool Echo today...walks out whistling merrily away!

Robert Tressell
39 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:12:30
I think we had a glimpse yesterday of clear tactical thinking for the first time in ages. As others have observed, this isn't like an Allardyce team - it's probably more like a Moyes team crossed with a Royle team.

https://youtu.be/IWR4SRo3hlw

The link above is to an analysis of Dyche tactics (assuming I got it right and its not the music I've been listening to).

You can actually see those tactics play out with yesterday's game - and with instantly improved individual performances across the pitch.

We've got the right man in charge. It won't all be plain sailing by any stretch but Dyche is the right appointment for us.

Peter Carpenter
40 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:14:33
Lots of great observations on here this sunny morning, and one or two worrying ones, particularly Eddie's tits being on his nuts.
I too liked the fact that Dyche only briefly applauded the crowd and then went down the tunnel. Simple, straightforward, no frills. That showed in the team too. Gueye was in the only position he can play, not fannying around on the left of midfield. Crosses went in straight away, no delay or cutting back. Corners were hit deep, not cut out by the first defender. Players, notably McNeill, carried the ball forward when there was space in front of them. We were nastier and more niggly. (Right about the ref, Danny, constantly ball watching and missing so much.) Onana fits in so well, he seems to be slightly bonkers - I love him.
My best realistic hope was a draw or narrow defeat but with one or two sparks of hope. This was just so much more.
Hope the board continue to stay away, pictures of their empty seats do them no favours; it looks like they are boycotting the team. What about giving the seats to some kids who live around Goodison but can't afford to go to games? Peoples' Club? They haven't got a clue.

Colin Glassar
41 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:19:12
Ajay 37, you are so right when you say how much a win can change the mood but we can’t get ahead of ourselves as you stated.

This is the same group of players who beat, convincingly, Crystal Palace only to lie down and die in the next half dozen games and leave us in the relegation zone. They are the same (core) players who’ve let down previous managers time and time again by their lack of mental and physical strength.

I’m all for celebrating a great win and performance but they’ll have to start doing it on a regular basis to convince me they’ve truly changed.

Rob Halligan
43 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:23:29
Danny # 36. I’m just about to go to calderstones park with the dog, to clear me head and blow the cobwebs away. Doubt I’ll bump into Anthony Gordon though, maybe Seamus, as he goes there quite often with his wife and two young kids to the kids play area. Great to see you again yesterday, and we really must have more than a few minutes here and there for a proper chat.
Danny O’Neill
44 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:26:00
Me and my mate used to walk the dogs along Hale shore regularly Jim.Stunning.

I got married in Hale Church as the wife didn't want a Catholic wedding. The alternative would have been St Christopher's in Speke, were I was Christened. Being a West Midlands girl, I accepted her point.

My best friend was a bit of an artist and a picture framer. He drafted and framed a personal picture of Hale Church as a Wedding present that sits on my wall 30 years later..

And the Childe is a great pub!

I'm still running on adrenaline after yesterday!! I'll go out and watch the football later. I haven't even looked who is on. I don't care. I am still smiling.

Laurie Hartley
45 Posted 05/02/2023 at 10:55:03
Call me old fashioned but one of the many things that brought a smile to my face was seeing McNeill running to guard our back post whenever Arsenal got a corner.


Trevor Peers
46 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:07:18
With Dyche at the helm I think hard work and sticking to a game plan will always be a given, it's in the guys DNA.
There will be setbacks but I think now we have some hope and that is such a huge relief to what has gone on before.

The fighting spirit and organization we shown yesterday quickly got the fans onside. It created the true Goodison atmosphere which can be like an extra man and was the dream start we can build on in our desperate fight for premiership survival.

Stu Darlington
47 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:09:05
A great performance and a much needed 3 points.An encouraging sign for me was that we actually created a fair number of good chances and could have finished with 3 or 4 goals.
I have maintained on another thread that I thought at the beginning of the season we were not a bad side just missing a couple of creative players to complete the jigsaw. I still think that,and yesterday’s performance confirmed it.
That however needs to be the bench mark for the rest of this season.
All too often over the last couple of seasons,we’ve seen games where we have played really well being followed by games where we looked as if we’ve never kicked a ball in our lives.
If we can consistently deliver the same level of performance as yesterday we can give anyone a game.
So consistency is the key.
That’s got to be down to the manager playing players in their best positions,getting the tactics right and employing the right psychology to get the squad believing in themselves.
It’s also down to the players taking responsibility and trusting in what the manager is trying to do on the pitch.
The fans of as usual will do their part as they always do.
We won’t of course get points every game but if we continue playing with the effort and attitude of yesterday we will get enough to pull away from the threat of relegation,with ( maybe!) a platform to build on for next season.
All this of course without one signing in the transfer window!
I really hope we don’t get sucked in to signing someone like Isco.I don’t think his mentality is right to get in a fight for us and is just looking for a payday.
Anyway we’ll be getting a revitalised and motivated Dele back ( I know,I know) so we won’t need him!
Ken Kneale
48 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:11:17
Danny - I suspect Graeme Sharp is the one who disappoints many the most - his non-attendance clearly shows whose pocket he is in. He has tarnished his legacy beyond belief by simply not being man enough to be his own person in all of this and with his continued silence and non-attendance, that feeling of disappointment builds by the day with many of us.
Dave Abrahams
49 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:14:45
Laurie (45), yes I noticed McNeill putting himself on the goal line for Arsenals corners and it might be old fashioned but it is also very sensible and points to Dyche and his coaches and their ability to give insurance to guarding the goal and looking at every aspect of the game.
Dave Abrahams
50 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:17:00
Ken (48), somebody, either on ToffeeWeb or another Everton website, said Sharp was at the game yesterday.
Christine Foster
51 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:17:34
Laurie, exactly, I was the same! common sense af last I thought.. how many times is that back post just left theses says, criminal..

24 hours on, I have slept, smiled and agreed with Jerome and Robert that it's so good to have a manager who is capable of tactical awareness and is a like a conductor directing a performance.. never missing a trick.

I think this performance highlighted a few things, the main one is that the way we played was designed specifically to thwart Arsenal, but I think he is more than capable of changing formations, tactics and approach to suit. In short we won't be a one trick team, I think we will be much more flexible and harder to be as a result.

Bernie Quinn, l hope you got chance to watch that Bernie, it should have made you smile and punch the air!

Martin Mason
52 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:26:37
I can't pick a MOTM as they all played so well in their own particular roles.
Dale Rose
53 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:30:39
Just a great performance. Let's hope the recovery begins here.
Derek Thomas
54 Posted 05/02/2023 at 11:58:18
Brian @ 35; disclaimer; I'm still basking in the after-glow and there's not much I can add to all the above points in praise - except endorse them in spades...and maybe a happy Sunday like today is not the time to get into your point - but anyway

True, it should've happened after Bournemouth. But strangely enough I think both the off field and on field debacles had to come to a head...which happened after boxing day and the subsequent defeats (and 1 draw)...or else there was a good chance that gaining - say 6pts from boxing day onward might’ve just acted as a heat shield for the Board and just kick the underling causes down the road.

Headlock-gate is discredited as fake news and thus Kenwrights personal house of cards is teetering. Moshiri seems to have marginalised him but he himself might be on borrowed time. Maybe this was the January from hell we needed to have.

But jeez did it all come together yesterday


Neil Copeland
55 Posted 05/02/2023 at 12:25:30
Fantastic yesterday, like Danny, I am still on a real high. What a difference simple tactics and organisation makes particularly when it Is combined with real desire. The support was up for it regardless but the early challenge from Myko on Saka really set the tone for the 90mins.

The players played as a unit, a team which had good balance and everyone understood their role. Football really can be a simple game when coaches do not try to be too clever and over complicate things.

A couple of points;

Maupay did an excellent job when he came on. Yes we lost most of our attacking threat but he was winding up the Arsenal players at every opportunity and they were losing their composure. It was also helping to wind the clock down. Zinchenko should have seen red for his reaction to the foul from Maupay late on and had the ref or assistant or VAR being paying attention I think he would have walked.

Which brings me onto the second point; the reason Jordan Pickford hadn’t kicked the ball when he was booked for time wasting was because the ref was in the process of lecturing a couple of players in the middle of the pitch. Did Jordan take advantage of that? Yes of course he did but the ref wasn’t even paying attention and had Jordan kicked it I think he would have been ordered to retake it. Mind boggling incompetency.

Danny, sorry to hear of the Arsenal dicks on the train. I talked to a small group on my way back to the car and they were very gracious and accepted that the better team on the day won and may well have won by more. They were very complimentary towards our support too.

Nigel Munford
56 Posted 05/02/2023 at 12:40:24
So ideally before we play RS next week we need Forest and Man U to thrash Leeds by more than 5 goals and we’ll be out of the bottom three 😃
Ken Kneale
57 Posted 05/02/2023 at 12:47:25
Dave - I applaud him if he was - family members at the game and MOTD seem to indicate empty seats.

Brent Stephens
58 Posted 05/02/2023 at 12:59:13
Robert #3,

Thanks for the link to the analysis of how Dyche might set us up at Everton. Produced after his appointment but before the Arsenal game. And it's spot on. 18 minutes of pure gold of tactical analysis and everybody here should watch it.

Link

Steve Brown
59 Posted 05/02/2023 at 13:08:25
Thought Dyche did the simple things tactically in a smart way yesterday.

The deep corners to the back post were getting cleared by Saliba in the first half, so he had Doucoure and Onana stand between him and the runners at the back post after the break.

The result was a goal.

He also spent most of the match ordering our defence higher up the pitch.

He looks like a proper manager, but let's see. Benitez and Frank won their first games as well.

At least, we can go to Liverpool confident as we already have those precious 3 points in the bag.

Brian Denton
60 Posted 05/02/2023 at 13:10:16
Nigel (58),

I think we want Forest to draw with Leeds, as they are both likely to be relegation candidates. The same will go for any matches between our relegation rivals, unless one is cut so far adrift (unlikely) that it doesn't do us any harm if they beat one of the others.

Bill Gall
61 Posted 05/02/2023 at 13:31:36
Well, like many others, I had my doubts about Dyche and his reputation of defensive football, but what a difference to have a genuine tactician at the club.

It makes you wonder if, like Howe at Newcastle, he never had the players to play in a more balanced team performance. It may be his first game but I believe he has started by building confidence in the players he has.

It is early days yet with most probably a few bumps along the way, but 3 points yesterday even though it didn't move us up the table much, will make other teams more nervous about playing us.

It was a very welcome win that improved my weekend a lot better than the other rare wins with a performance that makes the future more promising. Congratulations to the manager his coaches and players.

Just been for a walk glad it's warmed up a bit: it's only -15, a bit better than -25 yesterday.

Dennis Stevens
62 Posted 05/02/2023 at 13:53:58
Darren #18,

"It wasn't always pretty, but it was always beautiful!"

That could easily be on an Everton tee-shirt, it's just so very Everton that.

Robert Tressell
63 Posted 05/02/2023 at 13:55:11
Brent # 58, thanks for including the link properly.

There's also one from a channel called "The Coaches' Voice" which is worth a watch. Dyche himself explaining his tactical approach.

Very early days of course. But encouraging.

Tom Bowers
64 Posted 05/02/2023 at 13:58:06
Nice to wake up to a good feeling on a Sunday morning for once.

Dyche did what I was wanting for a long time. He got the tactics right in the middle of the park with a four, five, one formation and restricted Arsenal's great passing game.

Everyone worked hard and obviously responded to the new gaffer's influence.

Kevin Molloy
65 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:16:45
I didn't know you were a West Midlands girl Danny. Birmingham?
Danny O’Neill
66 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:21:49
Rob, I hope you had a good strong coffee at the Cafe on Calderstones if it's still there.

Talking of places I used to like in Liverpool, Otterspool Prom. There were some decent football pitches near there.

Rob Halligan
67 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:32:20
Nigel # 56, and Brian # 60.

Counting today, Leeds play three games before we play again. After today, Leeds have got Man Utd home and away in the space of four days. Leeds could easily lose all three, but would have to be by an aggregate of at least six goals to drop below us, as they have scored ten more.

Forest winning today might well be the best result for us. Anyway, sod Forest, Leeds, West Ham and anybody else down there, because we will be soon out of sight of all of them!

Rob Halligan
68 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:34:43
Danny, on Jericho Lane, there were decent pitches, but not so clever now. There is also a new sports centre built there with very good 4G pitches.
Danny O’Neill
69 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:41:03
I may have made a typo, Kevin.

The wife is from Dudley. Pesnett to be specific, so I'm very familiar with the area.

Rick Tarleton
71 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:42:56
It was good to see Dyche swopping the wingers so that we had a natural left-footer able to swing crosses over. I'm a great believer in wingers swopping sides, so that defences don't get set in their thinking.

Delighted to have had that feeling, not just of sneaking a win, but of being the better team and deservedly winning against the top of the league.

Kevin Molloy
72 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:43:56
Sorry, Danny. yes indeed. Dudley is one of those words which always announces the Brummie accent, I've always thought.

Just like 'chequebook' always gives away a scouser.

Bill Gall
73 Posted 05/02/2023 at 14:50:42
Talking about Otterspool Prom, I remember going to a Technical College there in the late 60s. Liverpool Cricket ground was next to it. I used to go the chippy close by and walk down to Otterspool Prom at lunch hour.

Is it me or do Nottingham Forest have the smallest pitch in the league? Either that or both teams are playing with 12 men as it seems really congested.

Brian Williams
74 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:00:48
Kevin#72.

........ or "chicken."

Kevin Molloy
75 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:02:14
Brian yes! 'Murder' normally gives a few of us away too.
Brian Williams
76 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:05:40
Or the infamous "Dee do do dat doe don't dee doe." 🤣
Alan J Thompson
77 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:07:36
Bill(#73); I used to play football and cricket in the late '60's there for Odyssey (Blue Funnel's ground) which had Old Liobians between it and Liverpool CC and when Blue Flu left Liverpool was leased to Merseyside Police. And at the top over the road the Aigburth Arms were Rimmer from Red Dwarf was found in a box under the pool table. I believe the Technical College is now a housing estate.

Jim(#38) & Danny(#44); And you could catch a cab from the Pegasus or Dove&Olive to get a late pint in the Childe of Hale pub as it has 11pm closing, or was it last orders.

Happy Days!

Tony Abrahams
78 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:10:47
Martin @52,

It should be quite simple for you to pick a man of the match, mate. Every single Everton player, coach, manager, and even those toxic fans, that you slaughtered the other day on ToffeeWeb, played their part yesterday.

A united Everton can be such a powerful force. 🙏

Jim Lloyd
79 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:18:49
Danny,

I haven't been in Hale Church, and I've got to have probably been there for hundreds of years. The whole village is. When I learnt about the Childe being the king's Champion, it brings that history right in your face.

The pub's not bad either!!!

Alan J Thompson
80 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:22:04
Sorry typo my #77, not Rimmer but Lister.
Filipe Torres
81 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:36:47
Don't know why all the criticism!?

A hundred players bought (may not be, but it feels like) and half a billion spent and Chelsea haven't bought one striker.
The Mancs have spent a fortune since Ferguson left and look worse every season.

So why all the demeanour of this great club by their own fans??

Neil Copeland
82 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:43:58
The roads either side of Liverpool Cricket Club are Beechwood Road and Riversdale Road. The Technical College was down Riversdale Road with Otterspool Prom at the bottom of Riversdale. The prom land is reclaimed from a tip and I remember getting a nasty infected cut knee after playing football there as a kid.

There were hockey pitches on the field between the railway and Odyssey when I lived there. The hockey goals were great for a game of 3 and in.

The Aigburth Arms changed its name to the Kingsman in the '70s. We used to go there most Friday nights and have a pint before going to the match. It used get a bit rough between the locals and students from Ocean Fleet (?) which was a merchant sailor training college at the bottom of Beechwood Road.

Danny O’Neill
83 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:44:52
Some great quotes on here. I think we've missed out the Accrington Stanley advert. That would be a test of your nationally!

You should go to the Church Jim. It's on the way to a great walk to the shore and lighthouse.

And not far from the Childe for a pit stop!!

Back to yesterday, Onana was the stand out player, but as Tony says, every single one of them and us played their part.

It wasn't quite Palace but Goodison was absolutely bursting yesterday. Certainly from where I was stood.

Give us something to fight for and my god we will fight with them.

We silenced the away supporters, which can be unusual in the modern era. Following the fly away league leaders. Can you imagine if that was us?

Apologies, I don't think I've come down yet. Still feeling very emotional.

Bill Gall
84 Posted 05/02/2023 at 15:57:36
Hi Niel,

Riversdale Road was where the technical college was I went to, the chip shop was around the corner at the top end of Beechwood Road and that was where we used to walk down to Otterspool Prom. I think that was were it started from. From what I remember, there were a lot of nice houses down there.

Neil Copeland
85 Posted 05/02/2023 at 16:19:23
Hi Bill, yes the chip shop was on Aigburth Road, it was Greek if I remember correctly. I moved to a house in Riversdale Mews from Halewood when I was 9. It was a nice 3 storey town house. There were 2 large houses close by, one of which was a children’s home.

It was a nice place to live. All my mates lived down Beechwood Road where there was small council estate. We used to spend a lot of time messing about on the railway embankment. The railway was only used for goods trains then and was generally very quiet. We would often walk along the tracks!

Incidentally, the railway bridge down Riversdale Road was brick whereas the others on that line down Beechwood, Mersey Road and Jericho Lane and the haunted bridge in Otterspool Park were all sandstone. Apparently, the Riversdale bridge was the only one hit by bombs in WWII hence the brick reconstruction.

Ian Riley
86 Posted 05/02/2023 at 20:29:48
Think the performance shocked the arsenal management. Our work rate and passing was excellent. I said if our work rate improved we have the quality to stay up. The win kept us in the pack. Raised the bar yesterday.

The difference between Sean and Frank was simple. Sean knew when to change things during the game. Also,was the captain on pitch from the sidelines. Never let up on the players. Round one won. Round two coming up.

Alan J Thompson
87 Posted 06/02/2023 at 09:10:56
Neil (#82);

That would have been those from all over the world at Ocean Steamship's (aka Blue Funnel and Alfred Holt & Co) Midshipman's College and living quarters on part of the sports ground. Absolutely first class facilities and a lot of companies ran first class sporting grounds including the likes of Crawfords and Dunlops not to mention Working Men's clubs.

I suppose a lot has changed now when Thatcher and Blair made schools sell off sports grounds and some Council grounds were left to grow wild with a sign stuck in the ground saying that they had been left to go back to their natural state.

John Raftery
88 Posted 06/02/2023 at 15:11:23
Colin (41) It is inaccurate to say the same core players have let down previous managers time and again. Of the twelve who played on Saturday seven have arrived in the last thirteen months. The other five were Pickford, Coleman, Doucouré, Iwobi and Calvert-Lewin.

Of those ….

Pickford hit poor form after the 2018 World Cup under Silva before Ancelotti sorted him out in 2020/21. Arguably he kept Lampard in his job longer than was merited.

Coleman has been a model of dedication to the cause under every manager he has played for.

Doucouré has served under two previous managers; Ancelotti who rated him highly and Lampard who reportedly cast him aside for reasons other than playing performance.

Iwobi was one of Lampard’s few success stories, arguably our best player over the last twelve months.

Calvert-Lewin became a full international under Ancelotti and scored three in three for Benitez before succumbing to injury.

Hans Fyhrqvist
89 Posted 06/02/2023 at 17:18:47
I have been visiting this website for years but only now getting here to put occasionally some comments. To read the well-thought-out comments of ardent Evertonians is always very rewarding. Of course Lyndon Lloyd is the shining light with his expertise, match reports and various articles.

Yes, it was a magnificent win for Everton against Arsenal in Sean Dyche´s first game as our manager. Goodison Park was really rocking. It seemed that after the dreadful transfer window, we had eleven new players on the pitch when the game started. Now you could see, after a while, real organisation, huge amount of desire and "never say die" fighting spirit in our team.

This morale-boosting win gave us much delight and belief. Still we shouldn´t be carried away. Dyche himself said that this was only the beginning. And as Brian Harrison #35 put it very well, we must wait and see if the tide has turned, which we all of course hope.

We can all agree that, if Everton can repeat this kind of performance in every game, or more realistically most of them, for the rest of the season we have a very good chance to stay up.

Andy Crooks
90 Posted 06/02/2023 at 19:58:09
David O'Leary has unfinished business at Leeds. They still exist.
Jim Potter
91 Posted 06/02/2023 at 00:10:56
Well done, Mr Dyche. Early days, I know, but that looked like a team I used to know and love.

Thank you for talking common-sense with some honesty and humour. Thank you for re-introducing some fight, passion and visible effort into our performance. It's so pleasant to feel some pride again. It's draining being so constantly miserable.

We may yet live to fight another season where our club should be.

A pity though that it's so late for your early days. Another fault of those 'that cannot be named'.

John Pickles
92 Posted 07/02/2023 at 14:08:39
A good article in how Dyche changed tactics against Arsenal on Sky Sports:

The Sean Dyche effect: Everton feel immediate benefits in win over Arsenal as new manager makes his mark


Add Your Comments

In order to post a comment, you need to be logged in as a registered user of the site.

» Log in now

Or Sign up as a ToffeeWeb Member — it's free, takes just a few minutes and will allow you to post your comments on articles and Talking Points submissions across the site.


How to get rid of these ads and support TW


© ToffeeWeb