Everton Make Dream Start With Crystal Palace Victory As New Season Gets Underway

Everton have started the new Premier League season in style. And the atmosphere around Hill Dickinson Stadium could hardly have been better.

David Moyes’ side produced a composed performance to beat Crystal Palace 2–0 on Saturday. There was pressure on Everton to make a strong start. They delivered. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall broke the deadlock before Thierno Barry sealed the points with a second-half goal. It was exactly the kind of opening Moyes would have wanted.

The first goal changed everything. Everton had looked dangerous without finding the breakthrough, but Dewsbury-Hall eventually gave the hosts something to celebrate. Palace were suddenly chasing the game. Everton, meanwhile, looked increasingly confident. The home supporters responded, and the momentum began to swing firmly in the Toffees’ favour.

Then came the moment that could prove particularly important for Barry. The striker found the back of the net to double Everton’s advantage and put the result beyond serious doubt. After plenty of attention on Everton’s attacking options during the summer, Barry’s goal was a timely reminder of what he can offer. One goal might not settle the debate. But it certainly gives Moyes something to think about.

For Moyes, this was about more than just three points. Everton endured a difficult end to the previous campaign, meaning the pressure was already building before the new season had properly begun. Now, however, they have the perfect response. A clean sheet. Two goals. Three points. And, perhaps most importantly, belief. Everton could not have asked for a better opening.