Ronald Koeman challenges Everton to close gap on Manchester United after win over West Brom
Saturday 11 March 2017 18:22, UK
Ronald Koeman challenged Everton to win their next home game and continue to close the gap on sixth-place Manchester United.
Everton beat West Brom 3-0 at Goodison Park on Saturday to move within two points of Jose Mourinho's side, who have two games in hand.
The Toffees welcome Hull City to Merseyside next weekend before back-to-back away trips to Liverpool and Manchester United.
Koeman urged his players to follow up their fifth consecutive home victory when Hull visit, with European qualification up for grabs.
"We know we are strong at home and we have a lot of clean sheets at home," Koeman said.
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"We spoke about the two home games [West Brom and Hull] and if we can get six points out of that, then we need to play Liverpool and Manchester United next.
"First we must create less distance between us in the table and that's done by six points at home."
Everton were comfortable winners against Tony Pulis' Albion, scoring twice in six first-half minutes before Romelu Lukaku sealed victory late on.
Koeman was delighted with his team's "professional" performance and was particularly pleased with the way they dealt with West Brom's aerial threat.
"It was a well-deserved win and we were very professional," Koeman added. "We had the control and domination in the game and we had good football in moments.
"The 10 to 15 minutes before half-time, the two goals, and the third killed the game. I am really pleased because it's difficult against West Brom.
"They are strong with direct football and you need to defend really well from set-plays. I think that was outstanding.
"We had a lot of ball possession and it was difficult to create in the beginning. When we found players between the lines like [Kevin] Mirallas, Ross [Barkley] and Tom Davies then we created space and chances to score.
"It was really good that 15 minutes before half-time."
Leighton Baines was forced off at the interval with a back problem, but Koeman said it's not serious.
"His back meant he could not move anymore," Koeman said. "I think Funes [Ramiro Funes Mori] did well and was one header more to defend set-plays.
"It is not very serious and will not be a problem for next week."
