Everton almost recorded the perfect smash-and-grab against league leaders Manchester City on Saturday. In the end, the away side left with a hard-earned point after the first managerial battle between Ronald Koeman and Pep Guardiola ended in an entertaining 1-1 draw.
The visitors withstood tremendous pressure and highlighted the defensive improvements made under Koeman, but this point owed much to Maarten Stekelenburg, with the Everton goalkeeper delivering a masterclass between the posts, saving penalties from Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero and denying the same players with outstanding saves in open play.
Positives
This performance illustrated the uplift in hard work Koeman has demanded from his players.