Dominic Calvert-Lewin did something no Premier League player has since 2021 on Monday evening

Everton are still waiting for their first win of 2024 after Crystal Palace held Sean Dyche’s side to a 1-1 draw on Monday evening.

For those at Goodison Park and watching around the world, it’s fair to say the first half wasn’t one for the purist.Neither side could find any rhythm, with a lack of quality apparent to see. Nevertheless, Amadou Onana’s late header salvaged a point for Dyche’s men after Jordan Ayew had fired Palace into the lead with a smart finish. The Everton boss will probably be quite pleased with his side’s overall performance on the balance of play. Per FotMob, the Toffees produced a higher xG (expected goals) and registered nine more shots than the visitors. Furthermore, the home side squandered four big chances, which could have been the difference on Monday evening.

Once again, the lack of quality in attacking areas was evident. The sooner Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto improve their output, the sooner Everton will pull themselves away from the bottom three. The former has just three goals and hasn’t found the back of the net since Everton’s 1-0 away victory over West Ham United in October. However, Calvert-Lewin’s link-up play remains one of his stronger attributes, and the 26-year-old achieved something that hasn’t been done since May 2021 against Palace.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin aerial prowess shines v Crystal Palace

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Calvert-Lewin’s heading ability is one of his strengths, and the Everton striker was aerially dominant on Monday evening. Per WhoScored, he won 17 duels in the air, more than any other player has amassed since May 2021. The striker was far too athletic for Palace’s defenders and could potentially thrive with another player looking to run in behind.

Should Sean Dyche play a front two?

Calvert-Lewin’s strengths could be suited to playing in a front two. The number of flick-ons and headers could suit a pacey forward with good finishing ability to run in behind, and considering Everton’s current struggles in front of goal, it’s something Dyche could consider. Up next for the Toffees is a tough-looking trip to the South Coast to face Brighton and Hove Albion. However, if Everton can repeat their 2023 performance at the Amex, they will send the travelling fans home extremely happy.

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