Anticipation has been high with the new season fast approaching and excitement has filled most social media platforms. With Deadline Day now shut, all eyes were focused on the first game. With most of Everton’s signings coming late in the window and more than a couple heading away from the club, it was always going to be interesting to see who would start on Saturday.
When kick off came, it was the absence of a Palace player that was maybe more shocking than some of the Everton inclusions. With Wilfried Zaha on the bench from the off, surely this game would have been for the taking?
Everton began the more dominant team but after the unfortunate injury of Andre Gomes, Crystal Palace seemed to gain more possession in the away side’s half, restricting Everton’s attacking play. The momentum shifted further in Palace’s favour as Morgan Schneiderlin, who had already received a yellow card, was sent off for a late and clumsy challenge on Luka Milivojevic.
In the end I think most would have thought the result wasn’t one to be too disappointed about. Crystal Palace, a team who are very experienced and physical, did what they needed to do. Everton were stopped from building any real momentum and seemed frustrated with some of the referees decisions. However with a very average display I will do my best to bring you my Read Everton Three Stars.
Seamus Coleman
It was announced before yesterday’s game that our long-serving favourite Irishman had been made club captain. Seamus decided to mark that occasion with one of his usual reliable performances. Often finding space wide to the right of the pitch, Coleman offered a lot in our attack. With his right side partner for the night Richarlison at times leaving him with little options, he managed to cope well with the pressure. The captain managed to keep possession well and put some good balls into the box, unfortunately however none were converted.
Seamus Coleman however is first and foremost a defender and his ability at the back meant a near certain goal was avoided. A fantastic last minute block that took the sting of a Max Mayer shot kept things level for the travelling blues. Coleman continued his defensive form dealing with the ever more pressing attacks towards the end of the game.
Michael Keane
The Everton Centre Back had a tough game towards the end but the clean sheet adds to the impressive record continued from last season. I think there is a lot of organisational work needed with the defence & midfield however I feel like the partnership between Keane and Yerry Mina can work well for us.
The performance today was far from perfect but the first game of the season should be the base level and I think things will only get better. Keane looking the more comfortable on the ball out of the two centre-back options and tracking back to clear the ball when Palace slipped the line and appeared one on one with his England team mate. Again certainly not the performance of the season but a lot more encouraging than some of the other experienced players.
Jordan Pickford
The current England number 1 made a convincing start to the season. Pickford saw little action in the first-half, however he was called upon a lot more in the later stages of the game. With Palace allowed to come out of their own half more and at times break the Everton defensive line Pickford needed to be sharp and never failed.
The ‘keeper was called upon to progress the ball a few times throughout the game as Crystal Palace pressed an Everton defence who were trying to play from the back. Never seeming hassled and always confident, the ‘keeper made more than one save that surely sealed the point for us today.
