With a 2-2 draw against Tottenham, Jarrad Branthwaite’s stoppage-time equaliser lifted Everton out of the relegation zone.
Jack Harrison’s goal seemed to have been in vain as Richarlison twice put Spurs up against his old club in the first half. But in the 94th minute, Branthwaite’s heroics helped Sean Dyche’s team pull off an improbable point.
Everton haven’t won a Premier League game since before Christmas, but this was a crucial point that helped them pass Luton and climb into 17th place. Tottenham wasted the opportunity to pull farther ahead of fifth-place Aston Villa, but they are still in fourth position.
“It is obviously a difficult place to come and play and dominate and for the most part I thought we handled it okay,” said Postecoglou afterwards.
“Started the game really well, lost a bit of our composure. Second half was okay, created some good chances, probably needed a third to kill the game off.
“I think we needed another goal. In the last 10 minutes, it’s almost inevitable you will be put under pressure here. We had the opportunities. The keeper made some good saves that kept them in the game. We have to take it on the chin and move on.”
Vicario received plenty of attention from the Everton players and there were complaints about Harrison’s goal, although Postecoglou stopped short of criticising the officials. “It just seems to be in general referees are reluctant to call these now and leave it to VAR.”
Asked if it disappointing to concede from set plays, he added: “Just as disappointing to concede any goal. There were about 30 set-pieces. It is stuff you have to deal with.”
The chief positive was the performance of Richarlison. “Richy was good again, not just his goals, his general play was really important, he worked hard for the team. There is more to come from Richy.”
Everton visit Man City next Saturday while Tottenham host Brighton on the same day as well.
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