April 21, (THEWILL)- Everton claimed a vital 2-0 victory against fellow English Premier League strugglers, Nottingham Forest, at Goodison Park on Sunday. The win propelled the Toffees five points clear of the relegation zone with a game in hand, providing much-needed breathing space in their battle for top-flight survival.
Despite early pressure from Forest, with Jordan Pickford denying Neco Williams, Everton took the lead just before the half-hour mark. Idrissa Gueye’s well-controlled strike from the edge of the box found the bottom corner after Ola Aina’s headed clearance fell into his path. Pickford’s heroics ensured the Merseysiders maintained their advantage, producing a superb save from point-blank range to deny Chris Wood in his 250th EPL appearance for the club.
Everton’s second goal came from Dwight McNeil, who marked his own 200th EPL appearance in style. The former Burnley man linked up well with Abdoulaye Doucouré, and his long-range effort clipped the post on its way in. Though Forest had chances, with Morgan Gibbs-White squandering a golden opportunity, the Toffees held firm for a crucial three points.
The win was not without concern, as Beto was stretchered off after a collision with Gibbs-White left him unconscious, though he encouragingly gave a thumbs-up gesture as he departed. The victory moves Everton five points clear of the bottom three, while Forest remain perilously close to the drop zone, just a point above Luton Town with four games remaining.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
