When David Moyes returned to replace Sean Dyche as Everton manager, few expected an instant turnaround. But that’s precisely what the Scot has delivered, with Saturday’s gritty 2-1 win at Crystal Palace offering compelling evidence of his transformative impact.
Moyes Makes His Mark
In just his second match back in charge, Moyes guided an injury-ravaged Everton to a vital victory that bore all the hallmarks of his pragmatic approach. The decisive goal, smashed in by Carlos Alcaraz from an Ashley Young rebound, encapsulated the fighting spirit and tactical savvy Moyes has already restored.
Beto’s Channel-Running
Beto, marginalized under Dyche but integral to Moyes’ game plan, epitomized the new manager’s influence. The tireless striker’s willingness to chase channels and his coolly-taken goal showcased the work rate and clinical edge Moyes demands from his forwards.
Within seconds, Tyrick Mitchell’s poor throw had presented Carlos Alcaraz with chance to run. His pass was poked to Beto, whose finish showed a coolness unrecognisable in Everton’s Dyche years.
John Brewin, The Observer
Overcoming Adversity
That Everton prevailed despite an injury list that had swelled to nine absentees following the derby exertions speaks volumes. Moyes had to make do without talisman Iliman Ndiaye and the suspended Abdoulaye Doucouré, but still found a way to win.
- Ndiaye out with medial knee ligament injury
- Doucouré suspended after derby celebrations
Palace Profligacy
For all of Everton’s resilience, they were indebted to Palace’s wastefulness in front of goal. The hosts thought they had taken an early lead through Jefferson Lerma, only for VAR to intervene, and squandered several gilt-edged chances before Jean-Philippe Mateta finally equalised.
But Moyes’ men rode their luck and struck late through Alcaraz to extend Palace’s winless run to three games. It was a victory that owed as much to grit as guile, built on the solid defensive foundation and counter-attacking threat that are Moyes staples.
A Corner Turned?
While it’s early days, the manner of this win suggests Moyes has already begun to banish the malaise that set in under Dyche. If he can continue to extract such committed performances and astute game management, Everton’s season may yet have a happy ending.
If there was nothing like the fervour of midweek’s Merseyside derby, following the wash of emotion that encounter had entailed, Everton showed an ability to tough out matches, a quality he has resurfaced that felt lost for ever.
John Brewin, The Observer
The revival is gathering pace. With Moyes back at the helm, Everton suddenly look a team transformed – resolute in defense, potent on the break, and capable of grinding out wins. It’s a formula their returning manager has honed over his career. On this evidence, it may prove Everton’s salvation.
