Everton fans were once accustomed to a distinctive kind of set-piece dominance under Sean Dyche: the inswinging corner met by a towering figure at the back post, overloading the aerial contest and exploiting a goalkeeper’s vulnerability under high balls. There was almost a brutality in how it was executed. Recall December 2023’s 2–0 win at Burnley or the 2–2 draw with Tottenham: Everton won the aerial battle comprehensively and, put bluntly, bullied their opponents. In such moments, Dyche’s side thrived even amid other shortcomings.
Once defined by their formidable ability to dominate aerial contests and score from set-piece situations, Everton is currently facing a significant challenge in maintaining that reputation. Under former manager Sean Dyche, the club established a distinct identity characterized by direct style and set-piece dominance. Players like Dwight McNeil were central to this approach, but recent shifts in team personnel and philosophy have seen a move away from that style. Under current manager David Moyes, Everton has prioritized technical skill and a more calculated, tactical approach to match play.
However, this transition has not been without its setbacks, as evidenced by the club’s recent 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham. During the match, Everton struggled significantly with set-piece defense, with Tottenham capitalizing on corners to score twice. The loss highlighted a clear vulnerability in defending dead-ball situations. The team's previous set-piece coach, Charlie Adam, left over the summer, and his responsibilities have since been absorbed by Moyes's coaching staff. Given the recent defensive struggles, the club is now considering the appointment of a specialist coach to address these weaknesses, potentially looking to incorporate insights from organizations like Chris Howarth's Insight Sports.
The club, led by Moyes and his team, remains focused on addressing these vulnerabilities to restore the tactical edge that once made Everton a formidable competitor.
