Nuno Espírito Santo’s reign as West Ham United manager started with a battling 1-1 draw away at Everton on Monday night. 

The Hammers showed resilience to come from behind at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and leave Liverpool with a point in the Premier League clash.

Everton struck first in the 18th minute when Michael Keane powered home a header from James Garner’s delivery, giving the hosts the early advantage.

Sean Dyche’s side looked in control for much of the opening period, with West Ham struggling to create clear chances before half-time.

The visitors improved after the break and found their equaliser just past the hour mark. Jarrod Bowen latched onto a cross from El Hadji Malick Diouf and his effort deflected past Jordan Pickford to level the game. 

The goal was Bowen’s latest in a run of influential performances for the London club, underlining his importance once again.

Nuno, who replaced Graham Potter earlier this month, watched his side grow in confidence as the second half progressed. 

Summer signing Crysencio Summerville was a constant threat before being substituted, while Lucas Paquetá and Kyle Walker-Peters also played key roles as the Hammers pressed for a winner.

Everton, however, had opportunities of their own, with Garner and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall going close late on. 

The home fans voiced frustration as their side failed to make the most of attacking positions, while West Ham defended resolutely to protect their point.

The draw leaves both clubs with plenty to build on. Everton extended their unbeaten run at home but slipped up in their search for maximum points, while West Ham showed encouraging signs under their new boss. 

Nuno’s first outing may not have ended in victory, but the spirited response after falling behind offered hope of better things to come.

Everton welcome in-form Crystal Palace next while West Ham travels to Arsenal at the weekend.