November 07, (THEWILL) – Tottenham’s first Premier League game under Antonio Conte resulted in a goalless draw at Goodison Park against Everton.
However, there was some controversy, as referee Chris Kavanagh initially awarded Everton a second-half penalty before changing his mind after viewing the replay on the pitchside monitor. And when Mason Holgate went into a lunge, Kavanagh upgraded a yellow card to red, reducing the hosts to ten men for the final few minutes.
The first half was rather unremarkable, with both teams essentially cancelling each other out, however Everton came out on top. Hugo Lloris calmly saved Ben Godfrey’s 25-yard drive, giving the hosts at least a chance to stay in the game.
Spurs’ clearest chance came in stoppage time of the first 45 minutes, when Harry Kane picked up the unmarked Sergio Reguilon at the far post, but he blazed over with a first-time effort.
Spurs stepped up their game in the second half, but they were given a scare when Richarlison appeared to be caught by Hugo Lloris, with the referee pointing to the spot before controversially altering his mind.
Everton, enraged by such a decision, upped their game and put pressure on the visitors in search of an opening goal. Tom Davies had the finest chance for them, but he only managed a poor effort straight at the Spurs goalie, while Demarai Gray failed to complete Lucas Digne’s tempting cross.
Spurs substitute Giovani Lo Celso came agonisingly close to winning it right at the end, but his beautiful looping shot from 25 yards hit the post with Jordan Pickford clearly beaten.
There was still time for Everton defender Holgate, who had only been on the pitch for a few minutes, to be sent out for a reckless tackle on Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.
Tottenham are now in ninth place in the rankings, with Everton two places and one point behind them.
With only one day to prepare for this match, it is no surprise that Conte set his side up to take a point against an Everton side desperate to end their three-match losing streak. Tottenham were undoubtedly more energised and focused than they had been in recent weeks.
Yet, Spurs have not had a shot on target in over 200 minutes, and even if they were far more defensively resilient than usual, their decision-making in the final third will be a major source of concern for the Italian.
Rafa Benitez, meanwhile, will be encouraged by his Everton team’s improved performance. Following the penalty incident, he will feel a sense of unfairness, but if the Toffees keep playing like today, they will not be far off their ambitions come May.
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.
