Sean Dyche is facing mounting pressure as The Friedkin Group awaits approval for their proposed takeover of Everton. The Everton manager faced growing discontent at Goodison Park after Brentford managed to secure their first Premier League away point of the season, despite playing with 10 men for 53 minutes. Brentford's resilience spoke volumes about Everton's lackluster second-half performance. Brentford captain Christian Nørgaard was sent off just before halftime for a dangerous tackle on Jordan Pickford. Everton started strongly against the 11-man Brentford but struggled as the game progressed. Dyche's team has now drawn five of their last eight league games and failed to score in three consecutive matches. A challenging December schedule, including games against the top four teams, Manchester United under Ruben Amorim, a resurgent Wolves, and Nottingham Forest, looms ahead.
Brentford entered the match with 16 points, all earned at their home ground, highlighting their contrasting away form. Thomas Frank's team found themselves on the defensive early at Goodison. Everton had ample opportunities to secure a comfortable lead but were thwarted by a lack of precision and quality in the final third. Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken was a significant barrier, making several crucial saves. Flekken denied Dominic Calvert-Lewin an early goal with a brilliant reflex save, and later thwarted the striker again with a foot save. Everton's persistent inability to capitalize on their chances left Goodison with a sense of unease.
The game took a decisive turn when VAR intervened, leaving Brentford with 10 men. Christian Nørgaard's high studs made contact with Pickford's knee, resulting in a harsh red card. Despite the numerical advantage, Everton struggled to break down Brentford's defense. Vitalii Mykolenko missed a golden opportunity, and the team's performance gradually deteriorated. Brentford nearly punished Everton on a counter-attack, but Everton managed to hold on, securing a draw. Dyche was met with boos from the home crowd at the final whistle.
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