Everton will face Bournemouth tomorrow evening following a 4-1 defeat to Newcastle.
Moyes commented during this morning’s press conference: "You have to cope with whatever comes your way, that’s the nature of football. We had an excellent result on Monday night against Man Utd and then a less favorable outcome on Saturday. But that’s football for you.
"The team has performed brilliantly. Considering how far we’ve come from almost this time last year to now, the players’ performances have been outstanding.
"We definitely carried some injuries into that match, I’m aware of that. We faced a very strong Newcastle side that has been developing over the past four or five years; it was a challenging game, but hopefully, we will learn from it."
The Cherries also suffered a defeat – at Sunderland – over the weekend, however Moyes remains cautious about the upcoming match at Dean Court on Tuesday.
He stated, "Everton hasn’t had much success at Bournemouth, so that’s something we must change when we go there.
"We’ve said similar things about other venues, and we’ll make sure to achieve it.
"It’s probably one of the smallest grounds in the Premier League, but Bournemouth and their manager are doing an exceptional job with the resources they have.
"So it will be a tough match for any visiting team."
Squad stretched
Regarding injuries, Moyes acknowledges more changes are expected as the season progresses.
He explained, "We’re in a decent position. However, as I mentioned, we entered the Newcastle game carrying some players with injuries from the midweek fixture.
"They played, but on another day, if other players were available, those injured might not have been selected.
"But that’s no excuse from our side. We’re now entering a phase with many matches, so injuries, suspensions will increase and the squad will be stretched."
Thierno Barry
Moyes was also questioned about striker Thierno Barry’s form and influence.
The summer signing from Villarreal has had some promising moments in his initial months in England, though he is still awaiting his first goal for the Toffees.
Moyes said, "What we have decided is to give him chances to play and demonstrate his abilities. The fans have been very supportive, which has boosted his confidence. But to earn cheers, you have to perform well and show commitment. If you work hard, you will be accepted.
"Ultimately, to compete at the highest level against teams like Newcastle, any chance you get must be seized and converted into goals. We need him to score, that’s part of being a number nine. But we are pleased with his current performances. He is definitely starting to adapt to the Premier League and Everton."
Learning from Newcastle
Moyes admits the Newcastle performance was unexpected but also highlights how much progress the club still needs to make to reach that standard.
However, he believes Everton can join the top four race in time.
"It’s a matter of time," he added. "We played a very strong Newcastle team that has been building for the last 4-5 years.
"They have gained Champions League experience as well. It was a tough match.
"To reach their level, we need some time. Newcastle have invested wisely over those years and made the right signings, which is crucial in recruitment."
Long-term injuries
Giving an update on absences, Moyes admits he is managing player availability, especially in defense.
He said, "None of those players are available for the game.
"As you can see, Merlin (Rohl) is out, and we lack an additional midfielder which we are slightly short on.
Seamus (Coleman) would provide more cover at right back if he were fit.
"Jarrod (Branthwaite) has been sidelined for most of the season, so our options for central defenders are limited. We are a bit thin in those areas, but we will manage and get through it."
Before finishing, Moyes took a light-hearted jab at the local media after being reminded of Everton’s poor record at Bournemouth.
With a grin, he responded: "One day, one of the questions from BBC Mersey will be positive..."
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