David Moyes Lauds Jack Grealish as Everton End Bournemouth Curse with Vitality Stadium Victory

David Moyes has heaped praise on Jack Grealish after the on-loan midfielder inspired Everton to a long-awaited triumph at the Vitality Stadium, ending their barren run away to Bournemouth.

Grealish, who has rapidly grown into a crowd favourite since arriving from Manchester City, settled the contest with a second-half effort that took a decisive deflection off Bafodé Diakité. The goal secured Everton’s first victory at the former Dean Court venue since February 2016.

Despite the element of luck, the moment delighted both the travelling supporters and their manager.
Moyes said:
“Everton supporters adore Jack. He has brought something completely different to this team. I wouldn’t describe him as an entertainer – he’s a top-class footballer, someone capable of creating and scoring goals. He’s full of passion, he never hides, and he’s not the type to come off after an hour. He keeps working. I’m hoping he can add plenty more goals this season. His strike tonight was on target, and although it took a touch on its way in, he earned that moment.”

Grealish’s goal proved the standout highlight of what was otherwise a subdued encounter on the south coast. Bournemouth created little, with Antoine Semenyo drawing a routine save from Jordan Pickford in the first half, while Alex Scott inadvertently headed the ball onto his own crossbar.

The deadlock was eventually broken when Grealish drove forward down the left flank and fired towards goal, only for the effort to be redirected beyond the goalkeeper via Diakité.

After the match, Grealish spoke warmly about his connection with the Everton fanbase.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said:
“I’ve been here three months and I’m honestly so fortunate. Everywhere I’ve played – even back when I was on loan at Notts County – I’ve always had a brilliant bond with the supporters. Aston Villa was unbelievable because I’m a Villa lad, and at City I’ve had another great relationship. Now here, it’s the same again. I’m lucky to have played for clubs with such passionate fans.

“The supporters were brilliant with me today. To be honest, I didn’t think I played well in the first half. Pickers [Jordan Pickford] even told me it was probably my worst game – and then I end up scoring the winner. They were singing my name before the goal, and it felt like they wanted more from me, so I gave them more.”

Tensions boiled over for Bournemouth late on when substitute Marcus Tavernier appeared to gesture in frustration towards sections of the home crowd following a breakdown in play involving team-mate Evanilson. Manager Andoni Iraola expressed his disappointment at the incident.

“I’m not sure whether Marcus heard something or reacted to something,” Iraola said. “Either way, it’s a mistake. You have to keep your focus on the pitch and on the football.”