Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall believes a more aggressive approach in the second half led to Everton rescuing a point in the 1-1 draw with Leeds United. It also acted as a reminder of how to get the “fans off their feet” when playing at home.
After a poor first half, the Toffees faced the second half with a more positive approach. Thierno Barry scored the equaliser while Idrissa Gana Gueye struck the post just minutes later.
David Moyes brought on Dewsbury-Hall along with Jarrad Branthwaite from the bench at the break. Both players - suffering from hamstring issues - returned after a long injury layoff and contributed to the hosts getting an upper hand in the second 45 against Daniel Farke’s side.
“[It was] probably a game of two halves, really,” Dewsbury-Hall told after the game.
“First half, they were probably the better team. We couldn't really get to grips with the way they were playing, and I thought second half, we were the better team.
“I just thought we were more aggressive, more on the front foot. [The lads were] getting closer to players, pressing players, and you've seen what happens to the crowd and the atmosphere when we do that.
“It just comes alive and we feed off that. And then, yeah, I thought we were pretty dominant in the second half.”
Everton’s recent home form has been concerning. David Moyes’ side hasn’t won at Hill Dickinson Stadium since the 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in early December. While their away form has been excellent, with only Arsenal and Aston Villa picking up more wins on the road (six) compared to Everton (five) this season, there’s room for improvement at home.
“It doesn't take a lot for it to become loud and for fans to get off their feet,” remarked Dewsbury-Hall. “It might only take one tackle, one press. And I think us lads just need to remember that in the back of our head.
“We don't need to be playing silky football or completely dominating teams, it's being in people's faces, getting aggressive, getting the crowd up and then playing football and showing what we're about.
“So, yes, I think if we start doing that more in the next couple of home games, we're going to pick up better results.”
The return of Dewsbury-Hall is one of the major takeaways from Monday’s draw against Leeds United. The playmaker had been in excellent form prior to his injury at Stamford Bridge, scoring three goals and registering one assist in his last five games.
He has brought a fresh dimension to Everton’s attack with runs into the box as well as decisive passes and the 27-year-old is excited to recapture his form.
“[It’s an] amazing feeling. I mean, I got injured at the worst possible time for me. I was playing some of my best football and the team was doing really well.
“It's been tough to watch it for the last six-or-so weeks. I've been wanting to get out there as soon as possible, but I've been working hard to try and get back fit.
“So, it's nice to get the minutes. That first time back on the pitch is always the toughest, but now I'm hoping to kick on now and help the team.”
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