Moyes’ Magical Turnaround
Just when we thought David Moyes had already played all his winning cards, he found a way to produce another ace from thin air. Everton’s remarkable resurgence under Moyes has been nothing short of a miracle, and the recent victory at Crystal Palace is yet another testament to his managerial prowess. The team’s energy was visibly drained after the unforgettable Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, and with nine players out due to injuries, the prospects of a positive result at Selhurst Park seemed dim. Yet, Moyes once again confounded the doubters, turning a potential disaster into a crucial win that further solidifies the club’s position in the Premier League.
The Threat of Relegation Recedes
Everton’s season has been a rollercoaster ride, with only three wins from the opening 19 league games. However, since Moyes’ return, the club has seen a significant uptick in form, securing four victories in the past six matches. Goals from Beto and Carlos Alcaraz, who scored his first in an Everton shirt, ensured that the visitors returned to Merseyside with all three points. The victory is more than just a boost in the standings; it signals a definitive shift away from the relegation battle. What once loomed large as a menacing shadow now seems firmly in the rearview mirror, thanks to Moyes’ tactical acumen and the players’ renewed confidence.
Scare at Selhurst Park
The match at Crystal Palace was far from a straightforward affair, with Everton facing several nervy moments. James Tarkowski, a hero from the final Goodison Park derby, nearly let his team down early on. A lazy leg movement on Jake O’Brien’s wayward pass almost gifted the ball to Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who, after getting past Jarrad Branthwaite, hesitated before firing a shot that Jordan Pickford saved comfortably to his right. Palace had a legitimate claim for a goal when Jefferson Lerma headed home Justin Devenny’s corner with precision. The joy was short-lived, however, as the linesman Adam Nunn spotted that the ball had gone out of play before it reached the box, a decision quickly confirmed by a rapid VAR check. The Palace fans, initially misled by the stadium PA, had a good laugh at the mix-up, but the frustration was palpable.
Disaster Strikes, but Everton Responds
Palace’s frustration continued as defender Chris Richards managed to wriggle his way towards the Everton goal, only to have Mateta’s clever flick find Ismaila Sarr, who nearly put the hosts ahead with a powerful shot that glanced off the underside of the crossbar and dropped to safety. Despite the lack of fortune, Everton took the lead in a moment that showcased the brilliance of Carlos Alcaraz. Tyrick Mitchell’s throw-in was poorly directed towards Lerma, who wasn’t even looking. Alcaraz, making his full debut, seized the opportunity, storming clear and finding Beto. The Portuguese striker, displaying a newfound composure, kept his head and finished past Dean Henderson. It was a reminder of the improved version of Beto that Moyes has managed to extract from his squad.
Glasner’s Half-Time Adjustments
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, determined to turn the tide, brought on England duo Eberechi Eze and Adam Wharton at the half-time mark. Within 90 seconds of the second half, his changes paid off as Palace leveled the score. Wharton headed the ball back into the box after Everton cleared a corner, and a mix-up between Tarkowski and O’Brien allowed Marc Guehi to play a smart ball over Tarkowski’s head, setting up Mateta for a clinical finish past Pickford. The Palace fans held their breath as a lengthy VAR check for offside followed, but this time, justice was on their side. The game remained fiercely contested, with Beto coming close to a second goal and Ben Chilwell, making his home debut for Palace, forcing Pickford into a save after a charging run from deep.
The Final Nail in the Coffin
In the end, it was Carlos Alcaraz who sealed the victory for Everton, showcasing his presence of mind in the closing stages of the match. Ashley Young’s shot was blocked by Will Hughes, and Alcaraz, being in the right place at the right time, fired a low shot past Henderson to secure the three points. Despite a late onslaught from Palace, Everton’s defense held firm, and the team emerged victorious. The win not only takes Everton level on points with Palace in the Premier League table, sitting 13th, but it also reaffirms Moyes’ status as a managerial magician. Fans can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that their beloved club is on a more secure footing in the league.
