Everton’s slow second-half starts are a big worry

Patric Ridge argues that Everton have developed a worrying habit of starting second halves sluggishly under David Moyes. The writer points out that Everton fell behind just 43 seconds after the break against Chelsea, marking the third time this season the team has conceded within three minutes of the second-half restart, following similar occurrences against Manchester United and Hull City.

The writer notes that Everton have conceded seven second-half league goals compared to just one before the break. Combined with scoring only twice in first halves this season, Ridge stresses that Moyes and his players must improve their focus immediately to prevent leaving themselves with too much work to do.