Everton defeated Newcastle United 3-2 at St James' Park, marking their fourth win over the Magpies this calendar year and moving them up to seventh in the Premier League table.
The victory was Everton's first away success in the Premier League since February, and their third win at St James' Park in 18 months. Jordan Pickford kept a clean sheet in this match, having also done so in the first of the three victories, while conceding two deflected efforts in the match in between.
Match Details and Key Moments
Thierno Barry proved the match-winner for the second time this year at St James' Park, scoring a tap-in four minutes into the second half after Lukas Hornicek allowed Tyrique George's effort to squirm through his fingers. Barry has now matched his scoring total for the season, with his eighth goal.
Harrison Armstrong, who has started all Premier League games this season, missed a golden opportunity from around 12 yards out with the final kick of the first half. Jarrad Branthwaite was restored to the heart of defence after serving his concussion protocol, with Jake O'Brien starting at right-back for the first time this term.
Context and Implications
Everton went into the fixture just three points above the relegation zone but are now up to seventh. If they defeat Coventry City on Friday, they could climb above neighbours Liverpool into the top five. The Blues have won two crucial back-to-back matches without Jack Grealish, who remains unavailable after an unauthorised absence from training.
David Moyes, who picked up a second yellow card in as many Premier League matches for dissent, declared afterwards that it remains to be seen whether Grealish will be considered for selection against Coventry City. Everton's win came after their 3-1 victory over Newcastle in the Carabao Cup four nights earlier, which teed up a trip to Fleetwood Town.
