Everton will now have to secure a win from one of their two games to ensure Premier League status
The window of opportunity to ensure their safety had opened. Leeds United just managed to score an injury time equalizer to share the points at Elland Road, meaning that the Toffees needed a win to secure their Premier League status for next season and officially put an end to their relegation battle.
Frank Lampard ringed three changes to his Everton side as Jarrad Branthwaite, Andre Gomes and Dominic Calvert-Lewin came in for Michael Keane, Fabian Delph and Demarai Gray. Alex Iwobi trained with the defenders indicating that there was no change in the system and Lampard did stick to three centre backs, and two wingback system.
Everton started very brightly and played precise expansive football. The Toffees took the lead through Dominic Calvert-Lewin, his first since August 2021, but soon the balance immediately shifted on Brentford’s side as Branthwaite was sent off in the 18th minute. Everton’s nerves started jangling as Brentford grew into the game and eventually found an equalizer through a Seamus Coleman deflection courtesy of Yoane Wissa’s cross.
Momentum was in Brentford’s favour as the visitors took advantage of the extra man. Jordan Pickford had to make some key saves to keep Everton in the game. The Toffees were hoping for the half time whistle to come early in order to regroup but just on the stroke of half time, Richarlison won a penalty as he was pulled down by Mads Bech Sorenson.
Brentford found the equalizer in the second half through Wissa, who scored a remarkable header. In a flash, the Bees overturned a one goal deficit into a one goal lead as Rico Henry scored the third goal for the visitors, silencing the Everton crowd.
Everton made offensive changes but it wasn’t their day. In fact, Salomon Rondon was punished for a horrendous challenge, earning a red card. Brentford completed a 3-2 comeback which now puts pressure on Everton to secure three points against Crystal Palace to ensure their safety.
Everton player ratings
Jordan Pickford – 6
Pickford had to make a couple of saves in the first half, especially after Everton were reduced to 10 men. Pickford had no chance with any of Brentford’s goals. In total, the Englishman made four saves.
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