Everton boss Ronald Koeman has bemoaned his side’s first-half display during their 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday.
Junior Stanislas scored the only goal of the game after 23 minutes as Koeman suffered his first Premier League defeat since succeeding Roberto Martinez as Toffees manager during the summer.
The Dutchman conceded after the match that his team were not at the races during the opening 45 minutes and the hosts ultimately deserved their victory.
“The difference between the two teams was the pressing of Bournemouth, especially in the first half,” Koeman said. “That’s where we need to improve.
If you start like this, it’s very difficult to turn it. We tried in the second half and it was much better but football is over 90-95 minutes not 45.”
Everton could have moved to the top of the table had they secured a victory on the South Coast and other results had gone in their favour, but they have now slipped to fifth in the league standings, and Koeman believes the defeat will give his side a reality check.
“We know we will not win every game, it’s the Premier League, we need to be prepared for everyone,” added Koeman.
The former Southampton boss will be hoping the Toffees can bounce back from Saturday’s defeat when they take on Crystal Palace at Goodison Park on Friday night.
Everton are available at 1.75 to secure a victory against the Eagles, who are on offer at 4.50, while the draw is priced at 3.75.
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