Everton secured a 2-0 victory over Mansfield Town in the League Cup at Hill Dickinson Stadium, but the match was overshadowed by a 15-minute kick-off delay caused by ticketing issues. The delay, attributed to problems with the club's new digital ticketing system, was implemented to ensure all supporters could safely access the ground.
Carlos Alcaraz broke the deadlock on 51 minutes with a composed finish from 20 yards after a pass from 18-year-old Harrison Armstrong. Armstrong, who impressed on loan at Derby last season, later set up Beto for the second goal to seal the win for the Premier League side.
Mansfield, who brought more than 6,000 fans to the match, defended resolutely in the first half. Nigel Clough's League One side restricted Everton until the interval, with goalkeeper Liam Roberts making several saves. However, Everton's increased intensity after the break proved decisive.
David Moyes praised Armstrong and James Garner, saying: 'I've probably played 100 of these games in my career and 99 of them were rubbish. I thought Harrison played well, Jimmy Garner as well.' He added that the club would decide on Armstrong's immediate future in the coming days.
Everton's new signing Tyler Dibling made his debut as a substitute, while Beto missed a clear chance before eventually scoring. Mansfield had a late chance through Luke Bolton, but his shot was deflected over by James Tarkowski.
