Everton fought back to draw 1-1 with Leeds United at Goodison Park on Monday.
Everton trailed after 28 minutes when James Justin gave Leeds the lead, following a strong first-half spell from the visitors. Moyes admitted his side struggled early on and were second best before the break.
The Everton manager changed the momentum in the second half by turning to his bench. Jarrad Branthwaite and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall were both introduced as they continued their returns from injury, while Iliman Ndiaye, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Charly Alcaraz were back in the squad after AFCON duty or recent fitness breaks.
Thierno Barry made the pressure count by scoring his fourth goal in five league games to bring Everton level, capping a much-improved second-half display.
“I think the levels of the players we were bringing on gave us a bit more control in the game,” Moyes said. “We passed it and controlled it a bit better, but we’re still way short of where we want to be. We’re not creating enough chances.”
Moyes also explained why Branthwaite and Dewsbury-Hall were eased back. “These two boys are starters for us, but they’re not ready to start yet,” he said. “Jarrad’s been out for the best part of eight months, while Kiernan picked up a hamstring injury. We had to introduce them to try to change the momentum.”
Leeds boss Daniel Farke was pleased to leave Merseyside with a point after what he described as an excellent away performance.
“Overall, a really good result for us on the road,” Farke said. “The first half was outstanding, one of our best away performances. We were very dominant and didn’t allow any chances.”
Farke felt Leeds were unlucky not to win, but accepted Everton’s response. “They have so much quality, especially from the bench,” he added. “We were close to winning, but it’s a tough place to come. We take the point and move on.”
