Everton vs Arsenal: Bad Luck & Dominance Count for Nothing

Disillusioned Domination

This isn’t credible domination. Having 58% of the ball at Everton does not constitute Arsenal being in control of the match. The side in control are the side who have the game going precisely as they want. That wasn’t Arsenal.

Everton won without playing well but the improvements from the visitors after the break does not adhere to the parameters of being superior.

If Arsenal were peppering the Toffees’ goal, had them scrambling across the box and their back four at sixes and sevens, then we can begin assessing justified control. We can discuss an Everton performance below the standard they’ve produced more regularly this term, yet how do we not know their approach was intended?

A side incapable of scoring and who’re harking back to previous struggles dealing with counter-attacks and defending in transition, giving them the ball is the ideal tactical approach.

Likewise with Burnley, who are not a threatening away side and value draws on the road, or Southampton, who invited pressure in the early stages of the second half in the 1-1 draw. Ralphs Hasenhuttl’s side were undone by one moment of brilliance from Bukayo Saka, but they knew exactly what they were doing.

Give Arsenal the ball and not only will they not score, they’re easier to score against.