Match Analysis: Everton 1-0 Chelsea

Everton chalked up their first win of the Premier League season on Saturday as they saw off Chelsea 1-0 at Goodison Park.

Steven Naismith scored the only goal of the game, heading the ball past Petr Cech on the stroke of half time.

Both teams took part in a thrilling contest after the break, but it was the hosts who hung on to claim the points.

Here, Sports Mole casts its eye over the action on Merseyside.

Match statistics:

Everton: Shots 11 On target 5 Possession 43% Corners 5 Fouls 10

Chelsea: Shots 22 On target 5 Possession 57% Corners 7 Fouls 12

Was the result fair?

Both sides showed plenty of attacking intent, particularly in the second half, so a draw would have been the most reasonable outcome. However, few people would begrudge Everton the points thanks to their determination against the glitz and glamour of Chelsea.

Everton's performance

While there was a lot to show that the Toffees are developing a more fluent style under manager Roberto Martinez, there were definite signs of the David Moyes spirit in that display. The home side worked relentlessly to keep Chelsea out and were rewarded with the points.

Chelsea's performance

Manager Jose Mourinho will not be too upset with his players as they created an abundance of chances in front of goal. However, it was their finishing that let them down in the end. Meanwhile, they did well in defence to deal with a lively Everton attack. The question now will be how do they bounce back from their first defeat of the season. Is this a blip or has the second coming of Mourinho been brought back down to Earth with a bump?

Sports Mole's man of the match

Steven Naismith: The Scot celebrated his 27th birthday with the winning goal, but it was his persistence and sheer hard work that saw him stand out from everyone else on the pitch.

Biggest gaffe

Tom Howard nearly cost his side dearly when he gifted the ball to Andre Schurrle before Gareth Barry saved his blushes by denying Samuel Eto'o a certain goal.

Referee performance

There were one or two decisions that Howard Webb called incorrectly, but the Yorkshireman was his usual authoritative self in the middle.

What next?

Everton: The Toffees continue their Premier League campaign next Saturday with a trip to West Ham United.

Chelsea: The Blues are in Champions League action on Wednesday when they host Swiss side FC Basel.