Ronald Koeman: Everton grew in confidence after nervy opening in win over West Ham

Ronald Koeman admitted Everton started nervously against West Ham before two second-half goals steered them to a 2-0 victory.

Ross Barkley and Romelu Lukaku both netted as Everton won their first Premier League game since September 17, ending a run of four games without a victory.

Koeman conceded their recent form played a factor in their first-half performance at Goodison Park, leading to stern words at the interval.

"We were struggling a little bit after the last few results and had a little bit of doubt on the pitch, looking a bit nervous," Koeman told Sky Sports after the match.

"The second half was different. It was a higher tempo and we were better at pressing. We deserved to win."

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

"The first goal gave us that confidence to play good football - that was the important moment."

"[At half-time] I asked my players why we are doubting. We're playing at home, of course we know they are on a good run, but believe, have more confidence and go for it, and that was really the difference in the first and second half."

Lukaku scored his ninth goal in his last nine matches before assisting Barkley for Everton's second, and Koeman reserved special praise for the Everton striker.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

"Firstly, he's a great player," Koeman added. "A goalscorer is what you need to win games, but you have to recognise the work that Bolasie did for the first goal.

"After that we had some great chances, more opportunities to score, I think their keeper made two unbelievable saves from Barkley and Lukaku, and finally the win is deserved."

"Joel [Robles] had a very important save in the second half and it's a total team performance."