An outpouring of raw emotion at Goodison Park told the story. As Thierno Barry sank to his knees, manager David Moyes shook his fists in triumph and the South Stand roared its approval. The young French striker had finally broken his duck for Everton, scoring a crucial goal that set the Toffees on their way to a significant 2-0 Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest.
A Moment of Release for Barry and Everton
It has been a challenging introduction to English football for Thierno Barry, the £27 million signing from Villarreal. His performances had sparked debate, but on the stroke of half-time, he opened up his right foot and gleefully changed the narrative. The finish was a moment of pure release, perfectly capturing the transformative power of a first goal.
"There has been a real energy coming from the crowd for him and I am as delighted for them, as I am for Thierno, that he scored," said manager David Moyes. While not getting carried away with the overall quality of the performance, he emphasised the win's importance. Moyes acknowledged the striker's need for more goals, stating, "We have given him opportunities; he has started the last six games and I do not want six more games with only one goal. But he is young and it is a difficult role to play."
Everton's Gritty Foundations Secure the Points
This was a victory built on firm foundations. Despite Nottingham Forest boasting greater squad depth, Moyes's meticulous organisation and the tireless work of often-unheralded players like James Garner, Jake O'Brien, and Michael Keane ensured the result was never in doubt. Forest boss Sean Dyche, returning to his former club, conceded his side "never got going" and credited Everton's superiority.
The opening goal arrived after just 84 seconds, with Nikola Milenkovic turning in a cross from the relentless Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. The midfielder, an inspired signing, capped an outstanding personal display with a fine finish in the 76th minute to seal the three points. His endless running and character have quickly endeared him to the Goodison faithful.
Looking Ahead with Growing Confidence
The significance of this win extends beyond Barry's personal milestone. A haul of 12 points from the last 15 available has propelled Everton up the table into the positions Moyes expects, with confidence growing throughout the squad. The manager has been carefully managing Barry's adaptation, even asking defenders to toughen him up in training to cope with the Premier League's physicality, while the striker has also nursed a shoulder injury.
"But it’s great that he has got his goal," Moyes concluded. As Barry received a standing ovation upon his substitution, not one Evertonian in the stadium would have disagreed. For the player and the club, it was a hard-earned step in the right direction.
