Everton: Why David Moyes Still Commands Premier League Respect
Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirovic has explained why facing David Moyes remains a special challenge, joking that the Everton manager has spent "100 years" in the Premier League. Speaking after Hull's 2-2 draw against Everton at the MKM Stadium on Sunday, Jakirovic admitted that Moyes' experience gives him plenty to learn from as he begins his own Premier League chapter.
"I'm new here, and David is… 100 years here!" Jakirovic said, as reported by the Liverpool Echo. The 49-year-old added that he admired Moyes' calm presence in the dugout and considered it an honour to face him.
Moyes first arrived at Everton in March 2002, aged 38. His long career has included spells at Manchester United, Real Sociedad, Sunderland and West Ham United, alongside his two spells at Goodison Park.
The Scot has built his reputation on organising difficult teams to beat, and Jakirovic experienced that challenge first-hand. Everton took advantage of a costly Hull mistake when Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall intercepted Sorba Thomas' cross-field pass intended for Semi Ajayi.
He then picked out Thierno Barry, who finished the move to put the visitors ahead. Jakirovic admitted that Hull lacked energy and aggression during that passage of play.
His side struggled to press Everton effectively, prompting substitutions as he searched for a response. However, Hull showed character after falling behind.
They increased their attacking risk, improved their possession and found a route back into the contest through Mohamed Belloumi, who scored to secure a 2-2 draw. Jakirovic believed the result was fair, although he criticised his team's decision-making during counter-attacks and admitted that Everton's defensive organisation made creating clear chances difficult.
"They are a pragmatic team, they are a tall team who put in very good challenges and are tactically disciplined," he said. How has David Moyes built Everton's unbeaten start?
Their goal against Hull offered a clear example of that approach, with Dewsbury-Hall turning a loose pass into a dangerous attack. That method can frustrate opponents who prefer patient build-up play.