(Credit: Imago)
Sun 24 August 2025 15:56, UK
Everton began their era at the Hill Dickinson Stadium with a 2-0 victory against Brighton on Sunday afternoon.
Iliman Ndiaye became the first player to score at the new stadium as he opened the scoring in the first half.
James Garner then scored a long-range goal for the Toffees in the 52nd minute to give David Moyes’ side a healthy cushion.
Garner played at left-back. (Credit: Imago)Jack Grealish shines on full Everton debut
Jack Grealish signed on loan from Manchester City as he wanted to prove a point to his doubters, as well as Thomas Tuchel, as he wants to be part of the England World Cup squad.
As far as full debuts go, this was an exceptional performance from the former Aston Villa captain.
Grealish set up both of the Toffees’ goals as he was tearing down the left wing for the hosts.
Moyes brought him off in the 94th minute to a standing ovation from the fans.
Grealish was recently compared to John Barnes and this performance showed exactly why.
Grealish struggled at Manchester City since joining from Aston Villa. (Credit: Imago)Thierno Barry lets down David Moyes
Thierno Barry arrived at Everton this summer with high hopes as he was signed for big money from Villarreal.
The Toffees lacked a marquee striker leading the line consistently last season and Barry was signed to address that issue.
While these are early days, he did not have the best of games in his first start for the Toffees.
StatsThierno Barry vs BrightonExpected Goals (xG)0.60Shots on Target0Shots off Target2Big Chances Missed1Touches18Accurate Passes7/14 (50%)
He found himself in decent goal-scoring positions, but failed to show his clinicality inside the penalty area.
The 22-year-old missed a big chance and also failed to find the target with any of his two efforts.
Barry also managed to complete just seven passes in the game, which showcases just how out uninvolved he was.
Everton player ratings vs Brighton
Jordan Pickford – 8
Jake O’Brien – 6
James Tarkowski – 6
Michael Keane – 6
James Garner – 8
Tim Iroegbunam – 6
Idrissa Gueye – 6
Iliman Ndiaye – 7
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7
Jack Grealish – 9
Thierno Barry – 3
Substitutes
Carlos Alcaraz – 6
Beto – 4
Dwight McNeil – 5
Harrison Armstrong – N/A
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