October 07, (THEWILL) – Everton finally secured a home victory with a convincing 3-0 win against a hapless Bournemouth side. James Garner opened the scoring early on before Jack Harrison, making his first start at Goodison Park, lobbed home a brilliant second to give the hosts a comfortable two-goal cushion at the break.
Abdoulaye Doucoure made it three on the hour mark with a simple close-range finish as the Toffees avoided equalling their worst-ever start to a season on home turf. For Bournemouth, it extended their miserable winless run to 12 games as they looked bereft of ideas, giving Everton one of their easiest wins of the campaign so far. The visitors posed little threat aside from a short spell after going behind, but Everton soon regained control and never looked back after Harrison’s superb goal doubled their advantage.
With four successive defeats at Goodison Park prior to this game, Everton were in need of a lift. Manager Sean Dyche rang the changes and was rewarded with an improved performance, helped by Bournemouth’s accommodating defence. The early goal was key, spurring the hosts onto a first multi-goal haul in front of their own fans since October 2022.
Dyche will be encouraged by his side’s comfortable win against limited opposition. The clean sheet was also a boost, especially for underworked keeper Jordan Pickford, who still had to make some late saves. After a difficult start, Everton will hope this is a lift-off for Dyche as he attempts to guide them away from relegation danger.
Bournemouth now share their worst start to a top-flight season, having won just three points from their opening eight games under new boss Andoni Iraola. Their timid display at Goodison suggests they face a real battle to remain in the English Premier League.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
