Sunday 19 October 2014 08:56, UK
Roberto Martinez was full of praise for a 'clever' performance from his Everton players - Ross Barkley and Leighton Baines in particular - after beating Aston Villa 3-0.
The Toffees headed into the game in poor form, with just one win all season and a few points above the relegation zone.
However, they eased to victory at Goodison Park for their first home win of the season in the Premier League, though manager Martinez insisted it was a "very difficult game" despite the 3-0 scoreline.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Spaniard said: "We knew Villa would pose an incredible threat on the counter attack with the players that they have. Charles N'Zogbia, Christian Benteke and Gabriel Agbonlahor can be a real threat.
"I'm happy that we controlled the game and we stopped them from having any real threat. On top of that, we scored at the right times. I'm so, so pleased in the way that we performed today.
Heading into the game, Everton had one of the worst defensive records in the Premier League, having conceded 17 goals in seven games.
In truth, Villa rarely tested the Toffees' backline, as they recorded just their second clean sheet of the season.
Asked whether he was just as happy about the defensive performance rather than going forward, Martinez simply replied: "Yes. When we speak about clean sheets it's a team effort.
"Throughout the team we had a real focus and intensity to defend well, and we did so as a group. We worked extremely hard to keep them quiet in front of our goal.
"To be able to have the patience and to get rid of the pressure Aston Villa can reply was a clever performance from our point of view, and a really important one. It's a special feeling, and the players deserve it after the Old Trafford (2-1 defeat to Manchester United) game.
Martinez also reserved particular praise for man-of-the-match Leighton Baines, who added two assists to an excellent performance, taking his season tally to five.
"As soon as Leighton came back from the World Cup he's taken his game to the next level," said Martinez.
"He has the know-how and the decision-making, and it's a joy to watch.
"It was a strong, solid team performance, which is pleasing when you come back from the international break.
Another positive note for Everton was the return of midfield dynamo Ross Barkley, who was thrust into first-team action ahead of schedule with a start after a knee injury before the start of the season.
"We had to be patient with Ross (Barkley) because he wanted to get back really quickly.
That physicality that he has is a natural gift and I didn't expect him to last that long.
It was really good to see him back and see him perform in the manner that he did."
Barkley's return inspired Martinez to wax-lyrical about the strengths of his team, as he predicted great things from his charges when everyone returns to full fitness.
"You need to have everyone fighting for a place to rise the standards of the squad. When we have everyone back we look a different team.
"I think we started this season with impressive performances, but they haven't been complete due to different aspects.
"Today, the difference was that it was a complete performance in terms of keeping a clean sheet and scoring three goals, coping with a difficult game.
"The group is ready for a really important block of games for us."
