HILL CLIMB

Euphoria of new stadium and Dewsbury-Hall impact can't mask size of Moyes' early-season task

- By JOE THOMAS

TWELVE months ago an intelligent, quick-footed new signing with socks halfway up his shins brought Everton supporters to their feet in the club's final preseason friendly.

Iliman Ndiaye made an immediate impression against Roma when he came on as a substitute to grace Goodison Park back then - a sign of the excitement that was to come.

Everton's first senior match in front of supporters at the club's stunning new stadium was a case of history being made. But it was also a sign of history repeating itself as an intelligent, quick-footed new signing again had Blues purring from the stands

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was on the pitch as Chelsea overcame Champions League winners Paris Saint Germain in the Club World Cup final at the start of the summer. He ended preseason as the standout player on the freshly-laid turf at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The 26-year-old started as the most advanced of Everton's central midfield three, slotting in behind fellow new signing Thierno Barry.

He showed glimpses of quality all over the pitch - with his back to goal, carrying the ball forward and - in a sign of progress from last season that will delight David Moyes - from set pieces.

It was from a Dewsbury-Hall corner that Everton almost took an early lead, his inswinging effort landing on the head of James Tarkowski at the back post only for the centre back to loop his effort across goal.

Moyes spent six months bemoaning the dead-ball delivery proffered by his squad - at least until the return to fitness of specialist Dwight McNeil.

Dewsbury-Hall offered an immediate solution to one of the big issues that plagued Moyes' return.

Another major issue - one Everton have struggled with for some time - was the lack of creativity.