Sean Dyche has praised Everton fans for their powerful connectivity and believes Everton’s Merseyside Derby was a “win on all levels”.
Goals from Jarrad Branthwaite and Dominic Calvert-Lewin in each half gave the Toffees a night to remember at Goodison Park against title-chasing Liverpool.
Not only did it end a 14-year wait for a home win in the derby, but the Toffees moved eight points clear of the relegation zone with four left to play.
Dyche said: “Very pleased for so many reasons, firstly the performance, which I thought was very good, the tactical side of the game, which is always the wonder of the manager and coaches, have we got it right and can they deliver it, which they did.
“When you add the feeling in the stadium, which I thought was terrific, I thanked the fans for that because the ugly performances, the ugly outcome, we all took a bit of heat on that we held our hands up, but they (fans) have stayed connected to the team.
“I think that was on the show against Forest, and that was certainly on the show last night, so I think it is a win on all levels, not just the fact that we got another really important three points.”
Everton, who picked up their first win in 12 against Burnley two weeks ago, were handed their second points deduction of the season for another break of Profit and Sustainability rules.
The deduction of two points took Everton’s total deduction from 6 to 8.
Since then, Everton have managed to pick up three wins out of four, and Dyche has praised his players, staff and fans.
“It certainly says we are sticking to the task, whatever comes at us, the players. I’m certainly proud of that because we have had some ups and downs ourselves.
“I think the challenge has been on the outside with the points. I don’t think that’s helpful, and everybody agrees with that, so sticking to the task so far, there is more to come.”
Dyche told his players to enjoy the moment but insisted his side must stay focused, as another big game is ahead on Saturday against Brentford.
“I said to the players immediately after last night. You have got to enjoy that because it means a lot to the fans in this locality and me, of course, by the way.
“Still, it has to be parked because another one comes around—another vital game, another chance to play at Goodison and get three points, so there is a lot on the next game.”
When asked if Everton players should feel like they are safe from relegation, Dyche was quick to dismiss any idea that Everton’s job was done.
“No, there certainly shouldn’t be; I’m not feeling that way. We have taken some big steps, but there is more to come.
“We can control the situation ourselves, and that’s what we have always been aiming to do even with the points deductions: grip hold of it and let run with it.
“I think we are beginning to show that again, you know, three wins out of four, three home wins, three clean sheets, so good signs.”
Dyche spoke about finding more consistency with his side as they look ahead to hosting Brentford.
“That’s the challenge; that’s why I nipped it in the bud last night I said. Of course, enjoy it, but let’s go and do it all again. We have got to perform again against a decent outfit in Brentford.”
Dyche also praised his next opposing manager, Thomas Frank.
“Thomas is a fella I like as well. I know him, spent a bit of time with him, and I like what he does and how he talks.
“They are a good outfit; it is not an easy game, and there are no gimmes in this league.
“I told the players that. Tomorrow, we come in, but we get on with business.”
Everton will be without left-back Vitalli Mykolenko, who is due to have an ankle scan, and captain Seamus Coleman, who is doubtful.
