Monday 16 March 2015 23:57, UK
Everton boss Roberto Martinez insists his side were back to their 'very best' in their Europa League last-16 first-leg win over Dynamo Kiev.
Martinez' side have won just one of their last 12 Premier League matches but put that disappointing form aside to record a third straight Europa League win - this time against the current Ukrainian Premier League leaders.
The Toffees have now lost just one of their nine Europa League encounters this season and the Spaniard hopes the result can kick-start their season.
"I think it has to be a turning point for us," Martinez said. "The second half was an outstanding performance.
"I think we were ourselves at our very best. We controlled the game completely. It was wave after wave but you have to be very aware not to leave yourself exposed against a team like Dynamo.
"They have got excellent individuals but we stopped them from being a threat.
"You cannot underestimate a win in Europe and I thought the way we did it was fantastic. Our intensity in possession was very good and then to be able to win a game against a side with a winning mentality was very pleasing.
"And now we need to focus on the league and on Sunday get that feeling that we had in the second half.
"Once we get that winning momentum in the league, we are all going to get the rewards of seeing an outstanding football team with a lot of youngsters with enormous potential."
Martinez found his side a goal down inside 12 minutes as Oleg Gusiev gave the Ukrainians an early lead at Goodison Park but Everton hit back before the break through Steven Naismith, before Romelu Lukaku scored the winner from the spot with just eight minutes remaining.
Despite this, the Spaniard was proud of the turnaround his side made after a difficult start to the night and, with regards to his side's prospects ahead of next week's second leg, he added: "We know they (Dynamo) are a very good side, and especially at home.
"I would say the first 25 minutes was a huge contrast to the rest of the game.
"We grew into the first half and in many ways it was how we have been in the league this season. There was a lot of anxiety, not enough tempo, no possession and we didn't have a forward intent.
"But we look forward to going to Kiev. It will be a really strong challenge with them having the home advantage, but we have played well in Europe away from home.
"We will have to be at our best. The support will be really important."
