This Monday evening saw Everton join Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea at the top of the table on 10 points. The Ev have started the season strongly under their new manager. In the 29th minute of Everton v Burnley Abdoulaye Doucoure showed he’s taken on a challenge from Rafa Benitez.
Everton 3-1 Burnley
If there’s one thing you can say about Rafael Benitez as a manager it is that he knows how to change a game when things aren’t going his way.
In the first half chances were shared with good saves made by each goalkeeper.
The game really kicked on after halftime with Ben Mee’s 53rd minute header putting the visitors in front.
Burnley’s lead didn’t last long with Michael Keane heading home on the hour mark following a terrific cross from Andros Townsend.
The winger grabbed a spectacular goal of his own moments later, curling one into the top corner from distance.
Just a minute later Demarai Gray latched onto an excellent through ball to put the game to bed.
Abdoulaye Doucoure taking up Rafa Benitez challenge
Signed from Watford last summer for £20m, Abdoulaye Doucoure has seen his fair share of managers, seven in five years in fact.
His current boss at Goodison Park could well be the best of the bunch in terms of his own form.
Speaking to The Times Abdoulaye Doucoure said that Rafa Benitez wants him to score five goals this season. He already has one.
In the 29th minute against Burnley we saw him ghost into a dangerous position in the box before firing towards goal.
Nick Pope produced an astounding save, a save not every keeper could make.
The moment showed just how much of an impact Rafa is having on his players, they are becoming more adventurous and he is getting the best out of them.
Most importantly, they are listening to him. They are taking on his challenges.
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