Everton secured a 2-0 victory over Watford at Goodison Park on Tuesday night to book their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. Goals from Mason Holgate and Richarlison in the second half eased the pressure on manager Marco Silva, whose side had lost five of their previous six matches.
The first half was a drab affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. A chorus of boos greeted the half-time whistle after a display described as 'unrelenting tedium'. Everton made a tactical change at the break, introducing Theo Walcott for Moise Kean, which injected much-needed pace into their attack.
Walcott's impact was immediate, and Everton began to dominate. Holgate broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute, heading home a cross from Walcott to score his first goal for the club. Watford, who showed little ambition throughout, rarely threatened an equaliser.
Richarlison sealed the win in stoppage time, racing through to slot past former Everton goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes. The Brazilian's celebration, stopping to puff out his cheeks, captured the relief around the stadium. Silva admitted the result was crucial, saying: 'It was not just a matter of relief. The second goal was fair. We were the best team on the pitch.'
