
EPL Index
·21 de agosto de 2023
Bailey and Diaby Shine in Villa’s Convincing 4-0 Win Over Everton

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Yahoo sportsEPL Index
·21 de agosto de 2023
Aston Villa came roaring back after their initial Premier League misstep at the hands of Newcastle, issuing an assertive 4-0 drubbing to an Everton side appearing a shadow of their potential.
While the weekend prior saw Unai Emery’s charges face a staggering 5-1 defeat, this day was a spectacle of resurgence. At the heart of this energetic resurgence was none other than the scintillating Leon Bailey, contributing directly to two of Villa’s goals.
An early glimmer of brilliance from Bailey saw him set up Villa captain, John McGinn, who nonchalantly placed his shot beyond the reach of the Everton defence.
Merely 24 minutes in, the hosts found themselves two goals ahead. A penalty, slotted home by Douglas Luiz, was the outcome of an alleged foul by Jordan Pickford on Ollie Watkins. Villa’s clinical nature shone as they exploited Everton’s every weak link. Bailey, continuing his fine form, took advantage of Michael Keane’s defensive error, striking home the third for Villa post the interval.
Pickford, though vilified for his earlier transgression, did display sparks of brilliance, most notably with a reflexive save, thwarting Moussa Diaby’s fierce volley. But the narrative was undeniably about Villa’s prowess, further exemplified when Jhon Duran capitalised on yet another defensive oversight by the Toffees, tallying the fourth.
In stark contrast, Everton, under Sean Dyche’s helm, have found the beginning of their Premier League journey riddled with pitfalls. Their shortcomings were painfully evident against a relentless Villa. Two matches down and with neither a point nor a goal to their name, the Toffees appear to be in turbulent waters.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whom many regard as Everton’s striking hope, experienced another setback. After a mere 36 minutes on the pitch, a face-off with Villa’s goalie Martinez saw him bow out with an injury.
Recollections of last season’s encounter bring to mind two English football stalwarts – Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard, managing their respective teams. Fast forward, and it’s evident whose managerial switch has paid dividends.
Emery, with his continental flair, has been nothing short of a revelation since his October inception. From teetering on the brink of relegation, Villa has experienced a renaissance, sealing a European spot last season. Their emphatic win against Everton marked a stellar eighth consecutive victory at Villa Park. The synergy of Bailey and record acquisition Diaby, tormenting their markers, especially a beleaguered Ashley Young, augurs well for the claret and blue faithful.
Everton’s trials are evident. Having barely evaded the drop last season, their current trajectory is worrisome for their supporters. Beyond Calvert-Lewin’s woes, their striker reserves seem bleak, with Neal Maupay’s form waning and Youssef Chermiti still regaining fitness. Substitute Arnaut Danjuma did show promise, but it’s clear more is needed.
Looking forward, the Toffees face another side bereft of victory – Wolves. It promises to be a compelling encounter. For Villa, the horizon looks promising.
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