Everton caretaker boss Duncan Ferguson admits a slow start handed Aston Villa victory on Saturday.
Emiliano Buendia's looping header shortly before half-time at Goodison Park settled the opening game of Ferguson's caretaker tenure.
“I think I got a reaction from the players, you saw that, particularly in the second half," said Ferguson.
“We had a couple of half chances, one right good chance in the second half.
“There wasn't a lot in the game, Villa didn't have many chances either.
“We were much the better team in the second half.
“I am on the floor, gutted, I was kicking every ball, trying my very best to motivate the team and get them across the line.
“I am sick for the fans, that is the main thing, I was so desperate to get a result for them.
“I feel for them, I am one of them, I have been here a long time.
“It is a bad moment for me.
“But I am proud of the players, they stuck at it and kept going and gave me everything.
“I can't fault one of the players for their effort, I am just gutted about the result."
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