Everton began the game with high energy, pressing Brighton’s defense and creating a few early chances. The most notable opportunity came in the 8th minute when Doucoure and McNeil combined to beat Brighton’s offside trap. McNeil hit the post and, despite the rebound, neither Doucoure nor Calvert-Lewin could capitalize on the chance. This sequence highlighted Everton’s promising start but also their lack of precision in front of goal.
Brighton’s defense looked shaky early on, but they gradually found their rhythm. Their first real threat came in the 25th minute when Minteh’s cross found Mitoma, who scored with a powerful finish, giving Brighton a 1-0 lead. The goal was a result of Minteh’s pace and ability to exploit Everton’s defensive gaps.
Everton struggled to break down Brighton’s defense and were often left exposed at the back. This was evident when Welbeck danced through Everton’s defense in the 28th minute but missed the target. The Blues were fortunate to avoid conceding a second goal, but their defensive errors were becoming increasingly apparent.
In the 37th minute, Iro had a chance to make amends for his earlier mistakes with a blocked shot, and moments later, he committed a foul that led to a free-kick. However, Everton’s attacking efforts remained disjointed, and they failed to capitalize on the set-piece opportunities.
Second Half:**
The second half started poorly for Everton as their defensive issues continued. Young’s mistake in the 66th minute, leading to a red card after a foul on Mitoma, left Everton with ten men. Milner’s free-kick was initially saved by Pickford, but the resulting corner and Everton’s chaotic defending contributed to their woes.
With Young off, McNeil was tasked with playing right-back, a position he was ill-suited for. Brighton quickly took advantage of Everton’s disorganization. Adingra’s goal in the 87th minute, following a swift counter-attack, pushed the scoreline to 3-0. Brighton’s ability to exploit Everton’s defensive frailties was evident, with Mykolenko and Holgate struggling to cope with the pace of Brighton’s attackers.
Final Minutes:
In the dying moments of the match, Brighton’s Ayari scored with his first touch, but VAR ruled it out for offside. The decision spared Everton further humiliation, but it did little to mask the defensive collapse that had characterized their performance.
Brighton’s final goal came in the 90th minute, with Adingra netting after a well-placed pass from Welbeck. This goal sealed a comprehensive 4-0 victory for Brighton, leaving Everton with much to ponder.
Everton’s inability to convert early chances proved costly. Their defensive frailties were exposed repeatedly by Brighton, and the lack of cohesion in both attack and defense led to a comprehensive defeat. Manager Sean Dyche faces significant challenges in addressing these issues as the season progresses. Brighton, on the other hand, demonstrated their attacking prowess and capitalized on Everton’s mistakes, securing a well-deserved victory.
