Arsenal are very strong on set-pieces, but were forced to think differently against Everton.
David Moyes’ side fell to a 2-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium, with both goals coming late on after a valiant effort.
Who was your Man of the Match in what was a positive performance? 👏
The players deserved so much more… 😡
Michael Keane in action for Everton during a Premier League clash against Arsenal
Photo by Alex Burstow/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Everton defended brilliantly, and also had a few decent chances to take the lead.
2-0 was perhaps not a totally fair reflection, however, the Toffees simply have to be more ruthless when good opportunities come about.
But Everton were at least very strong defending corners, with one statistic showing Arsenal’s respect for the Toffees.
Everton spooked Arsenal into rare short corner tactical switch up
Everton may not have had James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite playing, but this didn’t really have too much of a negative impact for Everton.
Because both Michael Keane and Jake O’Brien did well in the heart of the defence.
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And on corners Everton were strong.
Much has been made of the way Arsenal go about their corners. But on Saturday evening, the Gunners went short three times.
This was the most they’ve done that in any home game this season, according to The Athletic.
Arsenal prepare to take a corner vs Everton.
Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
It is perhaps a testament to how Arsenal viewed Everton’s ability to defend their usual style of corner, which is to plant the ball right on top of the goalkeeper with a number of players crowding around.
That has worked for them time and time again this season, and a lot of fans have actually become frustrated by it.
How have we come away from that with nothing? 😫
David Moyes, head coach of Everton, issues instructions during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/James Gill – Danehouse
But it’s something they do better than anyone. Indeed, ahead of the game, Arsenal had scored a league-high 21 goals from set-pieces this season.
Moyes actually defended Arsenal’s dead ball efficiency, saying: “What’s up with any of those things you say? You’re making it sound like that’s a problem because they’re good at set-pieces.”
So despite losing, Everton did at least force the Premier League leaders to really rethink one of their most significant playing strategies – and there is something to be said for that.
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