Jack Grealish scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to complete Everton's stunning 2-1 comeback victory over Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium. The Manchester City loanee bundled home from close range in the 93rd minute to spark jubilant scenes and end Palace's remarkable 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions.
Palace had taken the lead through Daniel Munoz in the first half and could have been further ahead, with Jean-Philippe Mateta missing two glorious chances. Iliman Ndiaye levelled from the penalty spot in the 76th minute before Grealish's late heroics sent the home crowd wild.
Pickford's outstanding display
Jordan Pickford was the standout performer for Everton, earning a 9/10 rating from Connor O'Neill for single-handedly keeping the Blues in the game. The goalkeeper made three crucial saves in the first half and another in stoppage time during his 300th Premier League appearance for Everton.
Without Pickford's intervention, David Moyes' side would have been dead and buried at half-time. His performance proved decisive in what became a memorable comeback victory at the new stadium.
Grealish finds his moment
The Daily Mail reports that Grealish told himself "Come on Jack, go and score" in the 85th minute, eight minutes before actually finding the net. The winger had been urged by manager David Moyes before the game to shoot more and test Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Liverpool Echo reports that Everton changed their Twitter bio to "Grealish for England" after his match-winning performance. The goal will boost his hopes of forcing his way back into international contention.
Mixed performances in comeback
The first half saw several Everton players struggle, with Tyler Dibling and Thierno Barry both replaced at the break after anonymous displays. Connor O'Neill rated both players 4/10 for failing to make an impact.
Substitutes Charly Alcaraz and Beto transformed the game after their interval introductions. Alcaraz earned an 8/10 rating for a brilliant second-half display that changed Everton's fortunes, while Beto provided the physical presence that gave Palace's defenders problems.
Defensive resilience emerges
Michael Keane was outstanding in the first half when others around him struggled, earning a 7/10 rating before being forced off injured. James Tarkowski endured a difficult opening period but grew into the game alongside Jake O'Brien.
The victory represents a significant moment for Everton in their new home, with the dramatic finale providing the perfect script for the Hill Dickinson Stadium faithful.
Sources used: "Liverpool Echo", "Daily Mail", "Morning Star", "Telegraph", "Metro" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
