Everton’s Win Sparks Nostalgia
In the final moments of Everton’s victory against Bournemouth on Tuesday, the traveling supporters began to sing a nostalgic anthem. Originally popularized during Roberto Martinez’s managerial era, the chant “The School of Science, it’s on its way back” encapsulated the optimism that once defined the club, highlighting its legacy of attractive, progressive football.
A Feeling of Positivity
The resurgence of this song over a decade later mirrored the current positive sentiments surrounding the team, with David Moyes’ squad marking their first Premier League win at the Vitality Stadium. While not quite reliving the high points of the 2013-14 season, when Romelu Lukaku led Everton to a record 72 points, the recent triumph has certainly instilled hope.
Breaking New Ground
This season has already shown signs of progress. Just a week ago, the team secured its first win at Old Trafford since 2013, even playing with ten men after Idrissa Gueye’s early red card. Tuesday’s win at Bournemouth was equally impressive, considering Moyes had only 15 senior players available, necessitating significant tactical adjustments, including reshuffling defenders and midfielders.
The Power of Adaptability
Injuries could have derailed the team’s performance, but the night reflected their resilience. “It was about showing what sort of mentality the lads had after a bad performance at the weekend,” said Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. The players showcased adaptability, and despite the lineup changes, several individuals stepped up, particularly in midfield.
Jack Grealish’s Impact
Among the standout performers was Jack Grealish, although his contribution initially seemed muted. However, he transformed the game by scoring the winning goal and embraced the fans passionately afterward. Grealish expressed his admiration for manager Moyes, who humorously noted the change in player sentiment towards him.
Building Belief in the Dressing Room
The presence of personalities like Grealish has instilled belief within the squad. Dewsbury-Hall acknowledged the significance of overcoming Bournemouth’s poor record, indicating a desire to deliver memorable moments for the club’s supporters. “We’ve got players now that can do that,” he said, highlighting the team’s potential.
Strategic Changes and Solid Performances
After a disappointing defeat, Everton adjusted their tactics, opting for a more compact defense and strategic pressing. Moyes actively guided his players, emphasizing discipline and using the right moments to transition from defense to attack. The improved performance was particularly noted in Iroegbunam, who excelled on the field despite an early yellow card, showcasing the team’s growing strength under Moyes’ management.
