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Everton 'still in preseason mode' after Watford draw - Roberto Martinez

Everton boss Roberto Martinez accused his team of having been in "preseason mode'' in the first half of their 2-2 draw with Watford.

The promoted visitors took a surprise lead in the 14th minute of the Premier League opening-day clash at Goodison Park through Miguel Layun, and the Toffees struggled to muster much of a response before the interval.

They improved in the second half and broke the Hornets' resilience to equalise through a sweet Ross Barkley strike in the 76th minute.

Watford then regained their advantage thanks to substitute Odion Ighalo in the 83rd minute, but Everton levelled again three minutes later thanks to another player called off the bench, Arouna Kone.

Reflecting afterwards on his side's display, Martinez said: "I thought we saw two very different performances from us. I think in the first half, we were clearly not at the level, speed, tempo and intensity that Watford had.

"Without knowing much about how these players gelled together (Watford had six debutants in their first XI), what we knew was that we were facing a newly-promoted side -- that means you bring enthusiasm, bravery and an incredible intensity.

"But I think you saw in the first half a team that was in pre-season mode. If we are like that, we cannot compete in this league, and after they scored, we had an incredible mountain to climb.

"The second half was completely different and I think the attitude changed completely.

"We got in that competitive mode. I think the game changed a lot with the introduction of Arouna Kone and, with a couple of tactical switches, everything became a lot clearer for us.

"We became a little bit freer with what we did in front of goal, and you cannot underestimate coming back from behind twice in the game -- that pleases me.''

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