EVERTON secured their third win in four Premier League games under Carlo Ancelotti as Richarlison’s goal was enough to see off Brighton on Saturday afternoon.

The Toffees were able to put the misery of their FA Cup exit at the hands of local rivals Liverpool behind them to stay on track in the league.

They have lost just once in seven games since sacking Marco Silva in December, and have won three of their four matches since Ancelotti took over.

A fairly lacklustre Brighton weren’t able to show the enterprise which has made them a great side to watch this season under Graham Potter, but they were also stifled by Everton’s well-organised defence and the 4-4-2 system Ancelotti is currently using.

The Italian commented in his programme notes that “the immediate priority this season is to play intelligent, attacking and entertaining football which wins matches and improves our position in the Premier League table.”

In truth, there wasn’t much entertainment on show, but Brazilian playmaker Bernard tried his best in this regard, showing flashes of flair and creative spark to produce numerous chances for the home side.

It was his link-up play with Lucas Digne that helped produce the game’s only goal, but there was still plenty of work to do for Bernard’s compatriot Richarlison once Digne’s cross fell to him in the area.

“Look at the goal, it’s a bit of high-quality play,” said Potter. 

“That was the difference between the two teams. The scoreline means we’re disappointed, but there wasn’t that much in the game.

“We still managed to get into the final third often, but we lacked quality once there.”

Everton are looking to bring in a midfielder before the January transfer window closes, and Ancelotti now wants to build on this win and put the derby defeat behind them.

“The reaction was good, but my idea is that we don’t have to react, we have to act,” said the Everton boss.

“The fact we have to react means that at some point before we didn’t act well. Part of my job is to make sure we continue [this good form] and we need to be competitive with more intensity.

“And the fact we don’t currently have games in midweek can help us improve quickly.”