Everton player ratings vs Brentford: Toothless attack falters in 1-0 loss

Everton now have just one win in 10 games

The early season upstart gave a huge boost of confidence to Everton but soon the injury bubble burst and there was a stone-cold reality check for Rafa Benitez. With the 1-0 loss to Brentford, Everton now have just one win in the last 10 games.

Another frustrating outing where Everton lacked the required bite in the final third, missing Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison dearly. The Toffees controlled the game and moved forward but just couldn’t penetrate in the Brentford goal area. The chance creation wasn’t smooth and any chances created were simply dead in the final third.

Rafa Benitez made three changes as Abdoulaye Doucoure returned, Salomon Rondon started and Alex Iwobi came in for Demarai Gray. Iwobi played behind the striker meanwhile Anthony Gordon and Andros Townsend were tucked in at the flanks.

The sixth loss of the Premier League campaign puts the Toffees in 14th position as pressure starts mounting on Rafa Benitez. Some might even start questioning his player preferences as the Spaniard did not bring on any striker despite having Cenk Tosun, Lewis Dobbin and Ellis Simms on the bench. With the Merseyside derby up next, Everton are in deep waters and in worst possible shape to face their archrivals.

Everton player ratings vs Brentford

Jordan Pickford – 6.5

Jordan Pickford was fairly involved in the play in the opening stages, collecting long balls and punching the high balls around the goal area. Ivan Toney sent Pickford the wrong side and scored from the penalty spot after a spot kick was awarded after VAR intervention.

He did not put a foot wrong in the whole game and was very unfortunate to concede via a spot kick. Pickford was authoritative and smart in his area and kept things under control.