Everton secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Goodison Park on Sunday, inflicting the Blues’ third consecutive away defeat. This defeat placed the Blues in 12th place on the table with 19 points from 16 games. Everton, with 13 points from 16 matches, would be in 10th place without their 10-point deduction for financial breaches, pending appeal.
The turning point came in the 54th minute when Dwight McNeil advanced with the ball, feeding a pass to Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Although Chelsea’s goalkeeper Robert Sánchez initially saved the one-on-one chance, Doucouré capitalized on the rebound, slotting the ball into the far corner of the net. In stoppage time, academy product Lewis Dobbin secured the three points with his first league goal for Everton, converting a loose ball from a corner.
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment, citing a lack of clinical finishing. Despite feeling they were the better team, Chelsea slipped further behind in the race for Champions League qualification, now trailing by 14 points. The blow was compounded by the loss of captain Reece James to a hamstring injury midway through the first half.
Pochettino acknowledged the need for improvement, especially in the next transfer market. Meanwhile, Everton, demonstrating improved shape and defensive solidity in recent weeks, celebrated their third consecutive clean sheet. Doucouré, delighted with his performance and the team’s success, emphasized the importance of winning at Goodison Park, where the fans’ support is evident.
Everton’s recent form, including a 3-0 home win over Newcastle United, has been impressive. Under manager Sean Dyche, they have won nine of their last 13 games in all competitions and now sit four points clear of the relegation zone.