Joao Felix’s shot slid past James Tarkowski’s legs and an outstretched Jordan Pickford, prompting an almost unanimous feeling among Everton fans. The Toffees had shown stoicism and resolve, reminiscent of Sean Dyche’s managerial style, for 52 minutes at Stamford Bridge. However, their hopes of salvaging a result were dashed after Chelsea scored, causing even the most optimistic of supporters to lose faith, writes the LiverpoolWorld.
Everton’s struggle to score goals this season has been a significant reason for their involvement in another relegation battle in the Premier League. However, their poor results and performances away from home have also contributed significantly to their current predicament. The fact that they have only managed to secure one league victory on the road, and only three since August 2021, underlines their lackluster form. Given these circumstances, it’s hardly surprising that many believed Everton would struggle to get anything out of their recent match in west London after Felix opened the scoring.
To have any hope of returning home with a positive result, Everton either had to fight for a goalless draw or score the first goal themselves. In previous matches against Liverpool and Arsenal, Everton conceded the first goal and went on to lose. Although they managed to secure a 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest, they let their lead slip twice. It seemed as though Everton were on track for another setback at Chelsea.
During his pre-match press conference, Dyche emphasized the need for Everton to change their mindset if they want to start winning matches away from their home ground of Goodison Park. Although their home stadium is crucial to their chances of survival, they cannot afford to simply give up points in away matches. Every point counts, and it could make the difference between staying up or being relegated. However, fans may have changed their thinking regarding Everton’s away performances in the remaining five games of the season, given the success of Dyche’s methods. Changing the team’s mindset has arguably been his biggest challenge, but it seems to be working.
Although Everton has only managed to win one away match this campaign, against Southampton, they did come from behind to secure the victory. They also managed to earn a 1-1 draw against Manchester City on New Year’s Eve, thanks to Demarai Gray’s outstanding finish. Nevertheless, there has been a prevailing belief that if the opposition scores first in away encounters, Everton will inevitably lose.
The 2-2 draw against Chelsea has completely changed the perspective of many Everton supporters. Not only did the team show resilience by fighting back once through Abdoulaye Doucoure, but they also demonstrated determination and grit to level the score again in the 89th minute through substitute Ellis Simms. When Simms scored the goal, the away fans erupted with joy, and the striker has now been affectionately dubbed “Ellis Limbs” due to the wild celebrations he sparked in the away section of Stamford Bridge.
Dyche has consistently praised the talent of the team he inherited since taking over in January. In fact, it may be the best squad he has ever worked with on paper. However, changing the team’s mentality has been just as challenging as shoring up the defense and improving their attack. The comeback against Chelsea is clear evidence that they are making progress on both fronts. If they fall behind during their upcoming match against Manchester United on April 8th, the team will no longer feel defeated before the match is over.