Famewo: 'A lot of positives to take' from Everton draw

Bolton Wanderers defender Akin Famewo has praised his side's performance after a 0-0 draw with Everton in a pre-season friendly. The match, played behind closed doors at Finch Farm, saw both teams field mixed line-ups as they continue preparations for the new season.

Match context and Bolton's approach

Bolton, who finished third in League One last season, used the fixture to test themselves against Premier League opposition. Manager Ian Evatt has emphasised a possession-based style, and his team showed composure against a physical Everton side. Famewo, a summer signing from Norwich City, started at centre-back and marshalled the defence well.

Everton, under Sean Dyche, are rebuilding after a difficult Premier League campaign. The Toffees secured safety with a game to spare, finishing 15th. Dyche used the friendly to give minutes to fringe players and academy prospects.

Famewo's assessment and Bolton's form

Speaking to the club's media, Famewo said: 'A lot of positives to take. We kept a clean sheet against a Premier League side, which is never easy. The lads worked hard and we created some chances too.' The 25-year-old joined Bolton on a free transfer after leaving Carrow Road, and his performance suggests he is settling quickly.

Bolton have won two of their three pre-season friendlies so far, scoring seven goals. The defensive solidity shown against Everton will encourage Evatt, whose side conceded 53 league goals last term. A clean sheet against a top-flight team provides a significant confidence boost.

Everton, meanwhile, have struggled for goals in pre-season, netting just once in three matches. Dyche will be eager to sharpen his attack before the Premier League opener against Brighton. The lack of cutting edge remains a concern, though key forwards like Dominic Calvert-Lewin were rested.

Impact and implications for both clubs

For Bolton, the result signals they can compete physically and tactically against higher-level opposition. The clean sheet, in particular, will be valued by Evatt as he finalises his starting XI for the League One campaign. Famewo's partnership with captain Ricardo Santos looks promising.

  • Bolton's pre-season record: Played 4, Won 2, Drawn 1, Lost 1. Goals for 7, against 4.
  • Everton's pre-season record: Played 3, Won 0, Drawn 1, Lost 2. Goals for 1, against 5.
  • Famewo made 18 appearances for Norwich in the Championship last season before moving to Bolton.

For Everton, the lack of goals is worrying. Dyche has stressed the need for a new striker in the transfer window, but no deals have been finalised yet. The club are reportedly interested in several attacking targets, with Dominic Solanke and Che Adams mentioned in recent weeks. A striker arrival before the season starts appears essential.

What's next for both sides

Bolton travel to Barrow on July 29 for their next pre-season friendly before starting League One action at home to Leyton Orient on August 5. Evatt's side will aim for a top-two finish after losing in the play-offs last season. Famewo's early form suggests he will be a key figure in that push.

Everton face Wrexham on July 25 and then Sporting CP on July 29 in their remaining friendlies. Dyche must find a solution up front quickly. The visit of Brighton on August 5 is a tough opening fixture, and the Toffees cannot afford another season-long relegation battle.

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