What Everton players were told at half time as inspiration for comeback revealed

Everton’s comeback against Crystal Palace was built on emotion rather than tactics, Sean Dyche said. The Blues were overwhelmed in the first half, ending it behind to Marc Guehi’s goal and after the visitors had repeatedly threatened to add to their lead.

But two Dwight McNeil strikes in the opening minutes of the second half swung the momentum towards Everton and, after four games in which the club had surrendered a lead, Dyche’s side finally held on for a victory.

Asked what happened in the dressing room to inspire the change in fortunes, Dyche said: “Not a lot. We just tried to correct a few things and told them it is a team game and everyone has got to make a difference and not wait for someone else. I just felt we played a bit cagey, which is understandable, it is a nervy stadium to get that first win, and I think we handled the second half very well.