Everton manager Sean Dyche expressed his satisfaction with his team’s ability to “kill the game off” in their 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, with Newcastle United next on the horizon.
Everton fans held their breath as the Toffees secured all three points at Goodison Park, ending a string of frustrating matches where they had squandered two-goal leads. With Newcastle set to visit Merseyside next weekend, seeking revenge for a 3-0 loss last season, Dyche is focused on maintaining his side’s newfound resilience.
The previous clash between the two sides saw Newcastle suffer due to late errors from Kieran Trippier, but the Magpies still enter the upcoming match as favorites. Eddie Howe’s Newcastle did manage a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Everton in April 2023.
Reflecting on his team’s recent win, Dyche emphasized the importance of professionalism and game management. “I think it’s good that the players have earned the right (to celebrate) because of previous results and the question marks about seeing the game through,” Dyche said post-match.
He continued, “I thought we handled the second half very well. Two great moments, and after that, I felt we managed the game well, which had come into question this season. We debrief games, and you learn, showing them ways of killing the game off, professional things.”
Dyche acknowledged that while fans may want “glorious football” every week, the reality of Premier League survival requires doing the basics well. “Do the professional things, turn the game around, and defend resolutely. Do the absolute basics: head it, clear it, kick it. We kept them to a minimum in terms of clear-cut chances.”