Everton travelled to the capital to take on West Ham United on Sunday afternoon, and will be delighted with the 1-0 win on the road.
After a truly turgid opening half of football, in which both sides put in leggy and disjointed displays, it was always going to be a moment of magic that would open up the clash.
Especially given neither side were forcing the issue, seemingly content with the opposition having possession, and limiting chances throughout.
However, fortunately for Sean Dyche, that point of inspiration came his way, with Jack Harrison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin combining before the latter fired home from just outside the box.
His arrowed right-footed shot, lasered into the corner after his turn afforded him the space, would prove to be the only goal of the game, as the Toffees will return to Merseyside with another vital three points amidst the potential 12-point deduction they are set to be dealt with.
Everton had to cling on in the end to get over the line, but will be buoyed by such a result as they now look ahead to their midweek cup clash against Burnley.
Everton Player Ratings
Jordan Pickford – 6/10
After a frustrating outing against Liverpool, the England international was confident and composed for the most part. David Moyes will be frustrated at how unchallenged he went, but he remained sharp to deny an offside Mohammed Kudus from point-blank range and a fine Said Benrahma volley.
Nathan Patterson – 4/10
Endured a pretty torrid afternoon at the London Stadium, with his positioning and one-on-one defending called into question. Grew into the game.
James Tarkowski – 7/10
A classic James Tarkowski showing, capped off by a crunching second-half tackle on Kudus which sparked outrage. Marshalled a backline largely untroubled.
Jarrad Branthwaite – 8/10
Another stunning showing from the 21-year-old, who is growing into a hugely important figure for Dyche. Composed and comfortable against Michail Antonio, who causes problems for most centre-backs.
Vitaliy Mykolenko – 8/10
Kept West Ham’s biggest threat in Jarrod Bowen largely silent, keeping yet another outstanding right winger quiet in successive weeks. Seemingly getting better with each week.
James Garner – 6/10
Struggled to get a grip on the game, with his influence fluctuating throughout the afternoon. Remained as workmanlike as ever.
Amadou Onana – 7/10
Despite being forced into a deeper role, his desperation to get on the ball was admirable. In a first half lacking quality, he stood out. A metronome for the Toffees.
Abdoulaye Doucoure – 6/10
A solid if unspectacular showing from the 30-year-old, whose only real interaction was to force a fine save out of Alphonse Areola. Kept things ticking over, but not quite as influential as he can be. Looked exhausted by the end.
Jack Harrison – 5/10
Probably his worst performance in an Everton shirt, the on-loan Leeds United man squandered a golden opportunity in the first half. His defensive work rate remained key.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin – 8/10
The perfect performance from Everton’s number nine on the road, who led the line with poise and power, capped off with his splendid winner. A huge positive for Dyche when fit.
Dwight McNeil – 5/10
Similar to Harrison, the £20m former Burnley man looked sluggish in possession, and misplaced a few first-half passes under little pressure. Again, his work rate can never be faulted.
Substitutes
Youssef Chermiti – N/A
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