In a tightly contested Premier League clash, Aston Villa secured a 2-1 victory over Leicester City in their first match of 2025, but it was their subsequent encounter with Everton that drew considerable attention. David Moyes' return to Goodison Park as Everton's manager was overshadowed by Ollie Watkins, who scored a pivotal second-half goal for Aston Villa, leading to Everton's defeat. This result further compounded the struggles faced by Everton this season, as they continue to grapple with scoring difficulties and an alarming win record.
Everton's current form paints a grim picture. They have managed only three wins this Premier League season, with a mere 15 goals to their name. This dismal performance is second only to Southampton, who sit at the bottom of the league with 12 goals and fewer victories. Despite Dominic Calvert-Lewin's impressive off-the-ball movement, leading the league with 121 targeted runs in the final third, Everton has failed to capitalize on these opportunities, failing to score in eight of their last ten matches.
The challenge for Moyes is further exacerbated by Aston Villa's formidable away record against Everton. The Villans remain unbeaten in their last five visits to Goodison Park, securing three wins and two draws, and have kept clean sheets in their last three encounters there. Despite Aston Villa's own struggles on the road this season—securing only 10 of their 32 points away from home—their victory at Everton underscores their ability to perform under pressure.
Aston Villa has faced its share of difficulties this season, particularly in away fixtures. They have lost each of their last five away matches in the league, conceding at least two goals in each defeat. However, their performance against Everton marked a turning point, with Emiliano Martinez making a crucial flying save in stoppage time to preserve their clean sheet and secure the win.
The match highlighted Everton's ongoing issues in front of goal. They have scored just 15 goals in 20 games this term, struggling significantly in open play. Only Ipswich Town has a lower expected goals total from open play than Everton's 13.2. The Toffees' inability to find the back of the net consistently has been a major factor in their lack of victories, putting immense pressure on Moyes to address these shortcomings urgently.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, despite his commendable work rate and movement off the ball, has not scored in his last 15 Premier League appearances. His drought reflects the broader challenges faced by Everton's attacking lineup, which has been unable to convert chances into goals effectively.
David Moyes, the oldest manager currently in the top flight, faces a monumental task to steer Everton clear of the relegation zone and maintain their record as ever-present participants in the Premier League. The team's inability to secure victories due to goal-scoring woes has placed them precariously close to the bottom of the table.
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