Everton made history yesterday, as the latest a Premier League side has thrown away a 2 or more goal lead whilst being ahead, after 87 minutes.
It’s ludicrous to think that the clash would have ended in anything other than a win for the hosts, who had enjoyed one of the most comfortable afternoons in recent memory.
Despite a nervous first-half in which they were clearly the better side, a blistering start to the second had Sean Dyche‘s side cruising at 2-0. And, they should have had more too.
So, to see this safety crumble right before Goodison Park’s very eyes was just pitiful, and torturous to watch.
Stephen Warnock felt Bournemouth’s third goal coming
As Dyche said in his post-match interview though, he could smell something was happening after they shipped the first goal.
He was screaming at them to refocus and keep their shape, but his calls fell on deaf ears and tired legs, who simply did not have the energy to execute his game plan.
It did not help that Goodison Park seized up, petrified at what might happen, but who could blame them?
If Everton has proven anything to these fans, it’s that happiness is never a long-lasting thing.
Stephen Warnock, speaking to BBC Sport, said even he could sense how the crowd had changed, and after the second went in, loosely predicted another: ‘It wouldn’t surprise me if Bournemouth go onto win this, you can hear the negativity around the stadium.’
Sean Dyche has to take blame for Everton collapse
Whilst Warnock might point to the nervousness of the crowd, it was certainly warranted given the barrage that the Cherries were enjoying on Jordan Pickford’s goal.
After all, not only had they already scored twice, but the visitors had also forced the goalkeeper into three stunning saves to deny them their winner.
It’s remarkable how, from the 87th minute onwards, a team that had looked so comfortable completely fell apart.
The players must take plenty of responsibility for their cowardice, but what cannot be blamed is the fatigue from the midfield, and Dyche’s gross misconduct to leave them on.
Tim Iroegbunam, for all his brilliance, was getting lazy in his passing and defending. James Garner was right there on the bench.
Meanwhile, Iliman Ndiaye had provided an outlet all game for Everton, driving the team forward with his pace and trickery. To take him off freed up that flank for Bournemouth, who later scored with a cross from that side.
So many poor decisions that were so clear to many within Goodison Park. This one is going to sting for some time.
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