Everton began the new Premier League season with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium, with much of the post-match focus on the youthful energy of the team. While the midfield partnership of Hayden Hackney and Harrison Armstrong, who had just 16 previous top-flight appearances between them, drew praise, it was the wingers who provided the spark.
George's confidence shines
Tyrique George, who made his loan move from Chelsea permanent for an initial fee lower than the agreed £25m option, was a constant threat. He attempted five shots, his personal highest in a single Premier League game, with three from outside the box. His two completed dribbles were the most of any player, and he had seven touches in Palace's box. Everton directed 45.7% of their attacking moves down George's side, where he linked up effectively with goalscorer Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
Speaking on Match of the Day, former Everton player Wayne Rooney praised the team's new approach. "I really like the signings Everton have made this summer," Rooney said. "With George coming in off the wing role, after re-signing, I think Hackney is a really good signing, and Armstrong… there's something a bit different with this David Moyes team. It's a bit younger and it's given a new lease of energy to Everton, so it's a great start."
Ndiaye irreplaceable
Iliman Ndiaye, who reportedly turned down a move to Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, was the beating heart of Everton's performance. He made four tackles, the most of any player, competed in 15 duels, made eight recoveries, created a match-high three chances, and completed 10 line-breaking passes. His nine touches in Palace's penalty area were the most of any player, and his two shots on target inside the box turned chances worth 0.24 xG into 0.54 xGOT.
Ndiaye also assisted Barry's goal with a sublime cross after being released by Hackney. Manager David Moyes was reserved in his praise, noting the team's youth. "It was good [that senior players stepped up] because we've lost a couple at the moment, we've not got Jimmy Garner, we've not got [Christian] Norgaard, so we're playing with a really, really young and inexperienced team," Moyes told reporters.
A promising foundation
Despite the win, Palace had four 'big chances', with Pickford making a remarkable save against Eddie Nketiah. However, Everton managed the match carefully, dominating the 15 minutes after half-time with 65% possession and six shots, with Barry heading in the second goal in the 53rd minute. Everton's 1.12 xG was lower than Palace's 1.96, but the Blues' attacking display was more cohesive than anything seen at the end of last season, with repeatable patterns and a narrow front four.
The performance suggests a promising foundation for Moyes' youthful team, which should only improve with experience.
