David Moyes' return to Everton has starkly illuminated the pressing challenges confronting the club, which is in urgent need of revitalisation. The team’s disappointing form continued as they failed to score for the ninth time in 11 Premier League matches, culminating in a narrow 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa. This result leaves Everton grappling with a third consecutive league loss, while Ollie Watkins' well-placed goal secured the victory for Unai Emery’s side, further complicating Moyes’ efforts to instil a winning mentality at Goodison Park.
In the closing moments of the match, Dominic Calvert-Lewin had a prime opportunity to level the score. Unfortunately, his attempt to convert Jesper Lindstrøm's cross sailed over the bar. Without significant improvements from Calvert-Lewin and his fellow forwards, Everton's immediate goal of avoiding relegation will remain a daunting task. In contrast, Villa is on an upward trajectory, having made a remarkable journey from Championship promotion to contention for a Champions League spot within just six years.
Prior to kick-off, Moyes was visible on the pitch, reminiscent of his initial match as Everton manager on 16 March 2002. Unlike that day’s 2-1 victory over Fulham, where he participated in warm-ups, the 61-year-old stood in the centre circle this time, engaging with familiar staff. His enthusiasm was palpable as he greeted the home fans, receiving a warm welcome when his name was announced.
The only change to the starting line-up from Everton's previous fixture saw Calvert-Lewin replace the injured Armando Broja. The tactical approach remained consistent with Sean Dyche's previous strategy, although Moyes implemented a marginally higher defensive line. The necessary improvements for Everton to stave off relegation will likely hinge on internal adjustments unless the club secures crucial signings during the January transfer window.
Aston Villa, undeterred by the backdrop of Moyes’ return, posed an early threat. Amadou Onana, sold to Villa last summer due to financial regulations, almost opened the scoring with a long-range shot that narrowly missed the target. Everton’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, made an impressive save from a corner, denying Morgan Rogers’ curling effort.
However, Pickford's position was nearly compromised by a misdirected backpass from Ashley Young, which allowed Watkins a clear chance, though he failed to convert. Boubacar Kamara also tested Pickford with a low drive, while Jacob Ramsey squandered a golden opportunity just before the half-time whistle, much to Emery's evident frustration.
Moyes quickly identified the vulnerabilities in Everton's setup, casting doubt on Dyche's optimistic assessment of the team's condition. Dyche, in a statement through the League Managers' Association, reflected on his tenure with pride, acknowledging the club's difficulties and stating, "The right time has come to leave the club."
After a shaky start, Everton attempted to regain control, creating several chances in the first half, but failed to find the back of the net. Calvert-Lewin, encouraged by Moyes to "get his goalscoring boots on," missed a promising opportunity, firing wide after receiving a pass from Vitalii Mykolenko. Abdoulaye Doucour also squandered a chance, directing a shot straight at Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. Another attempt from Calvert-Lewin, set up by Jack Harrison’s clever chip, lacked power and was cleared off the line by Kamara.
Throughout the match, Villa showcased superior composure and quality in the final third, capitalising on a mistake from Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. After regaining possession, Branthwaite inadvertently handed the ball to Rogers, who set up Watkins for a clinical finish past Pickford.
Everton struggled to create meaningful opportunities in the second half, managing only a speculative shot from Orel Mangala in the 92nd minute. Calvert-Lewin, unmarked and positioned just six yards from goal moments later, should have done better but sent his shot over the bar.
As reported by Yahoo! Sport, this match highlighted the significant challenges Moyes faces as he endeavours to revive Everton's fortunes amidst a backdrop of ongoing struggles. Meanwhile, Aston Villa's ascent continues, reflecting their growing ambitions and potential in the Premier League.