Southampton vs Everton Preview
- Draw or Everton win
- Over 1.5 goals
Southampton host Everton at St Mary’s Stadium as they search for their first win of the Premier League season.
After a difficult return to the top-flight, Southampton face an Everton side that is beginning to find consistency and could be on the brink of their longest unbeaten streak under Sean Dyche.
Southampton: Desperate for a Breakthrough
Southampton have struggled since their return to the Premier League, entering matchday ten with just one point and languishing at the foot of the table.
Their current winless run in the league stands at 22 matches, a dismal streak that’s only been eclipsed twice in Premier League history.
The Saints managed a morale-boosting win over Everton via penalties in the Carabao Cup in September, but they’ll need more than cup success to lift their league form.
While they’ve had some success in recent head-to-heads, winning three of the last four encounters against Everton, their midweek Carabao Cup clash with Stoke City meant limited preparation time for this match.
A 3-2 victory against Stoke saw them advance to the quarter-finals, yet it’s league success that remains elusive for Southampton.
Everton: Building Momentum Under Dyche
Everton’s early-season form was shaky, marked by five defeats in their first six games, including a Carabao Cup loss to Southampton. However, Dyche’s side has since found stability, going unbeaten in their last five matches (W2, D3).
Their most recent outing against Fulham ended in dramatic fashion, with a stoppage-time equaliser ensuring they kept their unbeaten run intact. A positive result here would give Everton their longest unbeaten streak since Dyche’s arrival in January 2023.
The Toffees will approach this game with confidence, particularly after securing their first away win of the season with a 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town.
Everton have been strong against newly promoted teams, with their unbeaten streak against such sides now stretching to six games (W4, D2). Dyche’s men will be looking to extend this run and capitalise on Southampton’s poor form.
Key Players to Watch
Flynn Downes (Southampton)
The Southampton midfielder has shown his aggression and determination in recent games, earning three yellow cards in his last five league appearances.
Downes’ energy and tackling ability will be key in helping Southampton control the midfield and counter Everton’s attacking threats.
Beto (Everton)
Beto has been a reliable goal-scorer for Everton, netting his seventh goal of the season last weekend.
Known for his late-game impact, six of his seven goals have come after the 70th minute, making him a potential game-changer, especially if this match remains close heading into the final stages.
Tactical Insights: Can Southampton Finally End Their Winless Run?
Southampton’s primary focus will be on shoring up their defence and remaining disciplined, particularly in the midfield where Flynn Downes could play a pivotal role.
The Saints’ recent win in the Carabao Cup may offer a morale boost, but they’ll need a stronger performance to earn their first league win of the season.
Everton, on the other hand, will look to control the game through their midfield and exploit Southampton’s defensive fragilities.
Beto’s tendency to score late could be a critical factor, especially if the game remains tight. Dyche will be hoping his side can maintain their discipline and finish clinically when chances arise.
Final Thoughts
This fixture presents a crucial opportunity for both teams, with Southampton desperate to end their winless run and Everton eager to continue their upward trajectory.
With key players like Flynn Downes and Beto set to play significant roles, this match could hinge on moments of discipline and composure.
Will Southampton finally secure their first win, or can Everton extend their unbeaten streak and push further up the Premier League table?
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