The first two matches of the Premier League Summer Series did not go well for Everton. Although they managed decent showings in the first half of both games, second half capitulations led to 3-0 and 2-1 losses to Bournemouth and West Ham in New Jersey and Chicago.
So there was a lot riding on the finale in Atlanta yesterday, not because the results mean anything, but because Everton supporters wanted to see the team show some improvement in the performances from match to match.
And for those of us who were in Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday night, it was very clearly the best showing from Everton so far this preseason, as they drew Manchester United 2-2 in front of a very United-friendly crowd in Atlanta.
It could even be argued that Everton deserved to win the match based on the performance, one that saw them create more chances from open play than the Red Devils, who needed a penalty that definitely wasn't and a wonder strike from Mason Mount (of all people) to get their goals. Although, to be fair, the Toffees' second was an own goal, but one that came because they put the ball into a danger area in the first place.
Talisman Iliman Ndiaye continued to build upon his excellent preseason, scoring Everton's equalizer just before halftime on a gorgeous ball from Idrissa Gana Gueye, who got the ball after Vitalii Mykolenko made a superb tackle on the edge of the Everton box.
James Garner also stood out in the Everton midfield, although his best position on the pitch is still a question. But his engine is something the Toffees will need this season.
The draw allowed United to "win" the Summer Series trophy on 7 points, but Everton and its supporters won't sweat that too much.
What should be the focus is that the Toffees appear to be heading in the right direction as the season opener away to Leeds on August 18 looms.
Yes, there are more signings to be made, especially at right back and right wing, where Jake O'Brien and Charly Alcaraz filled in admirably on Sunday, but both were playing out of position, which isn't ideal.
And yes, there is still plenty to work on as David Moyes works to integrate new players like Thierno Barry and Adam Aznou, who made his debut in Atlanta, into the squad.
But Everton never looked overwhelmed by United, who smashed both Bournemouth and West Ham in the prior matches, and didn't hang their heads when decisions, like the penalty, went against them.
And so there are lessons to learn from the match, to be sure, but Everton should also know that they've started to click a bit more as the preseason has gone along. And at this point in the build up to the Premier League opener, that is very good news.