Premier League: Dream start for Sean Dyche
Everton 1 - 0 Arsenal
Sean Dyche enjoyed a dream start as Everton's manager as they stunned Premier League leaders Arsenal at Goodison Park.
Dyche was appointed last Monday following the departure of Frank Lampard. The hosts picked up their first victory in 11 games in all competitions courtesy of a link-up between two men who played for Dyche at Burnley.
James Tarkowski rose at the far post to power home a header from Dwight McNeil's corner to spark the sort of joyous scenes that haven't been seen since that memorable victory over Crystal Palace last season
Everton had enjoyed much better chances in the opening period too. Arsenal were outfought for large periods and failed to find any rhythm, although January signing Leandro Trossard forced Jordan Pickford into a sharp save late on.
The Gunners couldn't find the leveller and will see their lead at the top cut to two points if champions Manchester City beat Tottenham on Sunday.
Full-time scenes
Full-time SCENES! 🔊 pic.twitter.com/OuKsq2RYUW
— Everton (@Everton) February 4, 2023
One Burnley fan replied: "There isn't a Burnley Fan that hasn't become an Everton FC fan this week Dyche is an absolute hero in these parts with @Tarky19 and @dwightmcneil. You're staying up! Proud to be a Claret- proud to call these lads out! You're staying up Toffees, see you next season!"
Another Everton fan told us: "Wow, what an amazing atmosphere that was. Need to repeat the performance in the next game now!"
A neutral fan commented on a BBC match report: "Great result for both Everton and Man City. Dyche proves once again why he is a great motivator and manager."
Costly defeat for Arsenal?
Arsenal have swept aside almost everyone put in front of them this season. However, this is a major setback for them.
Exciting and free-flowing football has lifted them to the top of the table. However, this was absent against Everton, and they did not look like scoring after falling behind.
The Arsenal manager said: "Now is a time to love the players more than the day before and the month before, because they fully deserve it. We will be next to them and prepare for Saturday."
💬 "Now is a time to love the players more than the day before and the month before, because they fully deserve it. We will be next to them and prepare for Saturday."
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 4, 2023
Onto Brentford, Gunners 👊
Take a look at the highlights
Watch the highlights in the video below. Footage from Everton Football Club - YouTube
One Toffees fan commented: "Great performance by the team! Clean sheet, we kept their midfield and wingers quiet. DCL and Mcneil looked sharp, and Onana, Gueye and Iwobi were exceptional. Play like that again, and we can get a result against Liverpool."
