‘You could argue’: Sean Dyche reveals the ‘main’ issue he still had with Everton’s victory over Ipswich

Although their opponents were admittedly poor and rarely posed a real threat, Sean Dyche’s Everton side still needed to create and convert the necessary chances in their routine win.

Both goals, one from Iliman Ndiaye and the other from Michael Keane, were impressive in their own right.

However, it was not a flawless performance, and Dyche highlighted one key area where his team needs improvement.

Speaking after the match, the 53-year-old manager acknowledged the victory but remained somewhat critical.

Dyche has always emphasized a balanced approach, never getting too high after wins or too low after defeats.

Reflecting on the game, he expressed a desire for his team to have been more clinical, saying, “In many different areas we looked a threat, and maybe the main gripe is that we didn’t score more goals, but our game management was good today.”

He pointed out that his team showed progress in handling the game’s more challenging aspects, often referred to as the “ugly” side of football.

Dyche continued, “People have questioned that, but it shows the team are learning – doing the hard bit, the ugly bit, to make sure we looked after ourselves. So, there were a lot of pleasing aspects.”

The Everton boss also praised the traveling fans, who filled the away end despite facing terrible weather, and noted the importance of their support. He added, “Both our goals were good finishes.

We know Keano is a very good finisher, and we want goals to come in different ways, so I’m pleased with that.

The most pleasing part, though, was how we handled the game. It’s not easy coming to these grounds because they’re full of energy and belief.”

Controversy briefly surrounded the game when Ipswich believed they should have been awarded a penalty, but VAR overturned the on-field decision, and protests were quickly dismissed.

Looking ahead, Everton need to build on this victory.

After turning a run of four straight losses into four unbeaten games, Dyche’s team still has plenty of work to do.

Their next challenge comes against Fulham at Goodison Park, where Everton have struggled in recent years, having not beaten the Cottagers at home since 2018 and losing their last three Premier League meetings.

Following Fulham, Everton will face 19th-placed Southampton in what should be a more favorable fixture.

Success in these two matches could put Everton in a strong position as they approach the busy Christmas period.