Everton cruised to a 3-0 Premier League win over AFC Bournemouth at Goodison Park, comfortably their most comprehensive victory of the season.
After failing to score more than one goal at home in nearly a year, it felt like a foregone conclusion, given how dominant Sean Dyche’s men had been in earlier fixtures against Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, such was their misfortune, no one could have foreseen when their good fortune would ultimately arrive.
It was a very flawless afternoon as they witnessed three different scorers and a clean sheet, boosted greatly by a visiting side devoid of any passion, cutting-edge, or willingness to face a beleaguered home side with well-documented troubles in Merseyside.
While it was nearly impossible to pick a single Player of the Match, James Garner was the official recipient via Everton’s official channels, there were far too many standouts to mention.
Jarrad Branthwaite was as tenacious as ever at the back, shielding Jordan Pickford, who also shone in goal, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin put in yet another exhausting performance in which he did everything but score.
Things appear to be coming together for Dyche, who will face his first Merseyside Derby in front of home fans following the international break.
Who stood out for Everton against Bournemouth?
As previously stated, it was a truly amazing performance from their number nine, who completed another admirable 83 minutes before being replaced by Beto.
He appeared to win everything in the air, including his own second balls, as a willing runner sent into channels.
However, Dwight McNeil was named their greatest player, with an 8.6 Sofascore rating that exceeded Garner, Abdoulaye Doucoure, and Jack Harrison, all of whom scored. That should come as no surprise given that the former Burnley wide man was typically the one generating, with six key passes and two major chances created despite failing to earn an assist.
The Cherries were terrorized down his wing on a frequent basis, apparently too shell-shocked to even threaten the host’s goal. Pickford was still at ease when called upon, making three straightforward saves, firing 16 crisp long balls, and even making a critical pass.
It would be difficult to find fault with anyone on the pitch, but the on-loan Leeds United dynamo, whose magnificent strike supplied a much-needed cushion just before the break, could be claimed to have stolen the show.
How did Jack Harrison fare against Bournemouth?
It was only his second start for the Toffees since joining in the summer, but it was a typically hardworking performance from the two-footed wide man, who added a dash of offensive flair to his unrelenting work ethic.
Dyche would have been ecstatic to see him chase down defenders and harass opposing midfielders, with his 47 touches indicating a player who was properly involved.
The 26-year-old would remain effective with the ball, recording one critical pass alongside his 80% pass accuracy, while also creating a big chance and winning 100% of his two aerials, according to Sofascore.
His goal-scoring ability, on the other hand, shone through, with his back-post header improbably blocked before Doucoure hammered in the rebound. His actual goal, however, grabbed the headlines, a side-footed volley from 25 yards out, expertly placed over Neto, that struck the underside of the bar and bounced over the line.
A very wonderful strike, perfectly timed to avoid those in his path, it also signified a significant attempt to ensure the scoreline was protected, given how vulnerable the Toffees have been at times.
Journalist Connor O’Neill even gave the £90,000-per-week star an 8/10 in his post-match analysis, writing: “Superb after a slow start.” He took his goal smartly and provided Everton with a balance that they lacked this season. The more fit he becomes, the better he will become.”
Fans appear to be only seeing the beginning of what looks to be a great deal for Kevin Thelwell, who fought off late interest from Aston Villa to earn his signature.
Clearly, writer Ell Bretland owes a debt to the club’s Director of Football, who described Harrison as a “proper Everton player”: “Don’t know how to explain it other than Jack Harrison is a proper Everton player.”
Everton signed Harrison for what reason?
Many realized how talented a player they had acquired in the summer, despite the fact that his progression into the first team had been delayed by injury. However, the mystery created by his absence has just added to the excitement and made his immediate impact feel even more earned.
Last season, the speedster shone for the demoted Whites, scoring five goals and assisting on seven others in the league. His work for a struggling club lends validity to the idea that he could be crucial for Everton, who have also been trying for safety with each passing year.
However, Harrison’s US college coach Bobby Muuss would highlight these qualities after the signing was revealed, telling the Liverpool Echo: “The guy knows how to grind.” He’s been working hard and taking the longer and more difficult route than others.
“If I’m an Evertonian right now, I’m definitely excited to have someone with that mentality and character on my side.” Jack possessed qualities that others lacked. He was just distinct with his work rate, ability to beat players, and savviness.”
These are qualities that Dyche will have hoped to achieve with his signing, and the rest of the team is sure to be pleased with his improvement so far. The sky is truly the limit for the former Manchester City player, who appears to be the ideal candidate not just for the club, but also for the manager.
Yesterday only added to that, and it’s a belief that’s only going to get stronger with each passing game.
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