Everton deafeat leaders Arsenal in Dyche’s first game

Mueez Ajao

– New Everton manager Sean Dyche enjoyed a dream start as a much-improved side deservedly edged out Premier League leaders Arsenal at a raucous Goodison Park.

– Dyche was appointed as boss last Monday following the departure of Frank Lampard, who was sacked with Everton in the relegation zone.

– But 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.

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– Centre-half 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 have been witnessed rarely at Goodison this term.

James Tarkowski scores the first @Everton goal of the Sean Dyche era ✨ pic.twitter.com/EJ1wVxlQx2
— Premier League (@premierleague) February 4, 2023

– Everton had enjoyed much the better chances in the opening period too, but striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin could not convert from the excellent Amadou Onana’s low cross and also flicked a header wide.

– Arsenal were outfought for large periods and failed to find any rhythm, although January signing Leandro Trossard forcing Jordan Pickford into a sharp save late on.

– The Gunners were unable to find the leveller and will see their lead at the top cut to two points if champions Manchester City beat Tottenham on Sunday.