Sean Dyche said Everton's "resilience" and "mentality" is growing after Dwight McNeil's first-minute goal earned his side a priceless victory over Brentford.
The Blues started the day 18th but capitalised on teams around them failing to win by moving out of the Premier League relegation zone, leaping two points and three places above trouble.
McNeil's delightful strike after just 35 seconds gave the hosts the perfect start, rasping a finish across goal which nestled into the far corner.
Buoyed by a vocal crowd, the home side were swarming all over the Bees and created much the better chances with Demarai Gray seeing a second goal ruled out for handball by VAR.