Everton picked up their second win in the Premier League after beating AFC Bournemouth 3-0 on Saturday (07 October) at Goodison Park.
It has been arguably their best performance of the season so far, and Garth Crooks was full of praise for Jack Harrison who scored a “spectacular” goal in the first half.
The Toffees have seen the likes of Wolves, Fulham, Arsenal, and Luton coming to Goodison Park and taking points off them, so it was a much-needed victory for Sean Dyche and his men to get their campaign up and running.
Harrison joined Everton on loan during the summer from Leeds and made his first start after recovering from an injury. In the 37th minute, when the ball fell to Harrison from a corner, he controlled it nicely and lifted it over Brazilian shot-stopper Neto who came off his line.
“The goal by Jack Harrison was spectacular, but I can’t understand why Bournemouth’s goalkeeper Neto selected to punch the previous delivery into the box when it was infinitely easier to catch it,” said Crooks to BBC Sport, while picking his Team of the Week.
“By Neto keeping the ball alive it presented Harrison with the opportunity to score. Harrison is a good addition to the Everton squad, but having observed him when he played for Leeds I don’t think 10 goals a season is too much to ask for a player of his ability.
“Harrison is now amongst players and an Everton crowd that might bring the best out of him. After the debacle against Luton, Everton, and in particular Sean Dyche, desperately needed the victory.
“Bournemouth, however, look a shambles and face Wolves after the international break. Gary O’Neil, their former boss, I am sure would take some satisfaction in reminding Bournemouth that his departure from the club might have been not merely a little premature but a shocking error of judgement.”
Impressive performance
Harrison can be a match-winner for Everton if he stays fit throughout the campaign. He is known for his pace and skill and can play multiple roles. It was a superb goal from Harrison and it clearly shows that he is a Premier League player.
It would have been a huge boost for Leeds had they managed to keep hold of him. But, it’s a great opportunity for Harrison to show his class in the top tier of English football once again. At 26, he should be playing regularly in the Premier League, and hopefully, he will find his best form for the Toffees.
Everton do not have a clause to sign him permanently, so Harrison could return to Leeds and play for them again if the Whites return to the Premier League next season. James Garner and Abdoulaye Doucoure scored the other two goals for the Toffees.
