Coming out of the gate swinging

As has rarely been the case in recent years, Everton came out of the gate strong against Watford FC. Through some very direct play, Everton were able to put the pressure on the away side almost immediately.

The usual play up the wings and overlapping by fullbacks was on full display, but it was a point perfect long ball from Lucas Digne to Bernard that nabbed Everton the only goal of the match. Things did eventually slow down for Everton has the half wore on, but it was vital that they get that first goal of the season right away.

Watford eventually settled into the match and used their own dangerous attack to trouble Everton. It would have been nice to see the team extend the lead going into the half, but being a goal up on a team as crafty as Watford cannot go unnoticed.

Defensive unit looks largely solid

The center back pairing was a bit of a question mark going into this season. Michael Keane has been mostly very good since his second season after joining Everton, but it was his partner that was slightly more unproven. With Kurt Zouma back at Chelsea, the job was left to Yerry Mina. The young center back struggled to stay healthy last season and was unable to show his true potential. But in the first two matches, there are no big complaints about the pairing.

Jean-Phillipe Gbamin also looked a little better in this match. Playing for the suspended Morgan Schneiderlin, the young midfielder looked to be more settled with his new team. He was not without some sloppy play, but his aggression and strength are qualities that this team will need with Idrissa Gueye now gone.

Moise Kean introduces himself

Subdued in impact thanks to a red card in the opening match, Moise Kean let Evertonians know what they can expect from him this season. Subbed on with just under 20 minutes left to play, the young striker made an immediate impression on the Goodison faithful, running at the winded Watford defense.

With a scary blend of skills, speed and strength, Kean sliced his way through the opposition and nearly netted himself two goals. He was certainly unlucky not to get his first goal in blue under his belt, but his performance was very impressive. While Dominic Calvert-Lewin has a fantastic work rate, Kean has that special something that will make him a nightmare for opposing defenses across the league.