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Everton away form set for ultimate test

by Luna
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Graphic showing PL away table, matches played, wins, points Arsenal 16 9 32 Chelsea 15 7 25 Man City 14 7 24 Everton 14 7 24 Crystal Palace 15 7 23 Aston Villa 14 6 22
[BBC]

Fourth in the Premier League, one point behind second, with a game in hand. An average of nearly two points per game from seven wins and three draws in 14 matches.

That is the alternative table if just away matches counted.

David Moyes' side have been highly impressive on the road this season, behind only Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City in terms of points gained.

Then again, Crystal Palace have accrued only one point fewer on enemy territory.

The reason Everton are eighth rather than in the thick of the Champions League places has been their form at Hill Dickinson Stadium, which has yet to offer much by way of home comfort.

However, unbeaten in six away from home, the Blues now face the ultimate test at league leaders Arsenal on Saturday – and history is against them.

Mikel Arteta's team, seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, have the best home record in the division.

Not only that, but only once in 30 years have Everton won at Arsenal. That was in April 2021, in front of an empty Emirates Stadium when Gunners keeper Bernd Leno gifted them a late winner.

Generally, this particular corner of north London has proved harrowing for Everton supporters, although last season’s 0-0 draw at least ended a run of 10 straight defeats in front of fans at Arsenal.

So far this season, Everton have scored 16 goals on the road (from an xG of 15.4), averaged just under three shots on target per game and commanded 39.5% possession.

Being dogged, resolute and packing a punch on the counter has been a successful blueprint to wins at Manchester United, Aston Villa and Newcastle in recent months.

On Saturday, opportunity knocks to prove an unlikely thorn in Arsenal's title challenge.

Moyes will relish it.

Original Article

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