David Moyes’ return to Everton as manager highlighted the challenges ahead, as Aston Villa secured a 1-0 victory at Goodison Park. Everton struggled offensively, failing to score for the ninth time in 11 Premier League games, and the homecoming did not deliver the desired new-manager boost. Unai Emery’s Villa, composed and clinical, exposed Everton’s weaknesses and extended their hosts’ winless run.
The decisive moment came when Ollie Watkins capitalized on a mistake in Everton’s midfield, finishing expertly to secure the win for Villa. Watkins’ strike reflected the difference between the two teams: Villa’s precision in attack contrasted sharply with Everton’s inefficiency. The home side had opportunities, most notably in the dying moments when Dominic Calvert-Lewin missed a golden chance to equalize, firing over from close range after a perfect cross from Jesper Lindstrøm.
Moyes, back at Goodison Park after more than a decade away, was warmly welcomed by the fans before kick-off. However, the optimism quickly gave way to a stark reality. Villa’s early dominance nearly yielded an opener when Amadou Onana, sold by Everton to Villa last summer, tested Jordan Pickford with a deflected shot. The Everton goalkeeper was called into action again moments later, making a crucial save to deny Morgan Rogers.
Everton showed glimpses of promise, pressing Villa energetically and creating a few decent chances in the first half. Calvert-Lewin, tasked with leading the line, struggled to convert. His off-target attempts, including a misdirected shot after a clever pass from Vitalii Mykolenko, underscored Everton’s attacking frailties. Abdoulaye Doucouré and Jack Harrison also came close, but Villa’s defense, marshaled by Emiliano Martínez, held firm.
Villa, in contrast, displayed the composure and quality of a team aiming for European football. Their breakthrough came after a loose pass from Jarrad Branthwaite gifted possession to Rogers. The forward capitalized, threading a perfect ball to Watkins, who finished clinically past Pickford. Villa could have added to their lead, with Boubacar Kamara and Jacob Ramsey both missing chances in the first half.
The second half saw Everton struggle to create meaningful opportunities. Villa’s organization and discipline limited their hosts to speculative efforts, with Orel Mangala’s late shot the only attempt on target. Calvert-Lewin’s last-minute miss epitomized Everton’s night, as the striker failed to convert from six yards out.
Moyes faces a daunting task to steer Everton away from relegation danger. The team’s defensive vulnerabilities and lack of cutting edge in attack were evident throughout the match. While the January transfer window offers a chance to bolster the squad, the immediate improvement must come from within. Villa, meanwhile, continue to progress under Emery, showcasing the cohesion and ambition of a side looking to challenge at the top end of the table.
