22/08/2026
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Jarrad Branthwaite tackles a Palace player
(Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Everton opened a Premier League season with three points for the first time since 2021 after an impressive win over Crystal Palace at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
A super strike from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall opened the scoring for the Toffees three minutes before the interval, as the midfielder lashed across goal into the far corner. Thierno Barry doubled Everton’s lead early in the second period, meeting Iliman Ndiaye’s cross to head home.
Here’s how we rated the Everton players.
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford - 8
An absolutely brilliant save to keep the game goalless from Eddie Nketiah. A momentum-changing moment in the game.
Right-back: Merlin Röhl - 6
The latest stop-gap for Everton’s problem position at right-back produced a steady if unspectacular performance in the unfamiliar role. Solid enough from the German, though there will be tougher tests than a Crystal Palace side that lacks out-and-out wingers.
Centre-back: James Tarkowski - 7
The usual brave blocks from Everton’s new captain, who looks far better with Branthwaite alongside him.
Centre-back: Jarrad Branthwaite - 8
Everton need Branthwaite to stay fit. Didn’t lose a single defensive duel, with 2/2 on the ground and 4/4 in the air.
Left-back: Vitaliy Mykolenko - 6
A performance that was about par for the course for Mykolenko: we all know his strengths and weaknesses, both of which were on show.
Midfield: Hayden Hackney - 7
A decent debut for Hackney, who, despite Moyes’s pre-game comments, looks ready for the Premier League.
Midfield: Harrison Armstrong - 9
Trusted from the start and will be tough to move from that midfield now. Excellent work to regain the ball for the opener and energy right until the very end. The kid’s a gem.
Midfield: Kieran Dewsbury-Hall - 9
Brilliant, brilliant goal to open the scoring and usual work rate throughout. Dewsbury-Hall promised there was more to come this season and delivered on the opening weekend. His goals from midfield will be crucial to any European challenge.
Right-wing: Iliman Ndiaye - 9
A perfect cross for Everton’s second goal showed what he can produce from the right. Ndiaye is just a brilliant watch when in the mood, and Everton need to fend off any interest before the deadline.
Left-wing: Tyrique George - 8
George might find himself following the Ndiaye playbook during the infancy of his Everton career, with more excitement than end product, but he is a live wire. If the 20-year-old can put it all together, there’s a real player there.
Forward: Thierno Barry - 7
Continued his encouraging pre-season form with a first goal of the Premier League campaign. His header was the sort of positioning and finish Everton need more of. Is the Remontada on?
Reader Comments (57)
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Jack Convery
2 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:00:13
2 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:00:13
A good way to stop it becoming 5 defeats on the trot on opening day. As soon as Rohl was told to hold back more, we looked more solid. Pickfords save really important. KDH has to stay fit as does Branthwaite - our go to guys this season. Encouraging starts from Armstrong and Hackney. I reckon Ndiaye will go - hope he doesn't. If he does Grealish will come back and maybe just maybe. our CEO will keep his word and get us that long yearned Right Back. Good start. Let's keep it going. COYBs.
Ian Bennett
3 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:25:02
3 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:25:02
Mykolenko got forward, for me he was a 7. Rohl did well enough getting forward and no one went past him.
Stop playing to the gallery, Harry.
Stop playing to the gallery, Harry.
John Collins
4 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:29:29
4 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:29:29
I thought Palace targeted Rohl for a spell in the first half, got behind him a couple of times, but I thought he mostly did well.
Unusual for a modern day full back in that he engages the winger straight away, none of the modern day standing off. Good overall performance from the kid.
Unusual for a modern day full back in that he engages the winger straight away, none of the modern day standing off. Good overall performance from the kid.
Jay Lewis
5 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:29:45
5 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:29:45
I'd say you're a bit generous with those ratings, Harry mate.
If you play Footie Manager, even getting a hat-trick might still only get you a 9, so I'd lower everyone down a point except for Jordan Pickford and I'd also keep Hackney on 7 and Bambi on 7.
If you play Footie Manager, even getting a hat-trick might still only get you a 9, so I'd lower everyone down a point except for Jordan Pickford and I'd also keep Hackney on 7 and Bambi on 7.
Dave Abrahams
6 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:32:23
6 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:32:23
Ndiaye was my MotM, I thought he was outstanding — only thing wrong with him playing like this is it will bring his transfer sooner rather than later.
If he goes, it might make the transfer of Grealish more likely and I think Ndiaye going will weaken Everton's squad strength even though it will strengthen their transfer potential financially.
Great that we won but the performance wasn't that great. Some good performances from Armstrong, Branthwaite and Dewsbury-Hall.
If he goes, it might make the transfer of Grealish more likely and I think Ndiaye going will weaken Everton's squad strength even though it will strengthen their transfer potential financially.
Great that we won but the performance wasn't that great. Some good performances from Armstrong, Branthwaite and Dewsbury-Hall.
Jay Lewis
7 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:35:12
7 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:35:12
Deffo not that many 9s Dave!
Phil Wood
8 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:51:23
8 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:51:23
I thought the team played very well as a whole. Rohl was certainly better than this rating. He has to work the line as well as defensive duties and links very well. I think he can play anywhere.
Barry was never a 9. If he hadn't scored his excellent goal, his contribution would have been poor.
Very happy tonight. Nice to see TalkSport Luvee Teams losing or looking like they are going to. I'm fed up with hearing how Spurs will be Champions League and the usual creaming over Man Utd. Nottm Forest a bigger club than us, etc etc.
Loving it.
Barry was never a 9. If he hadn't scored his excellent goal, his contribution would have been poor.
Very happy tonight. Nice to see TalkSport Luvee Teams losing or looking like they are going to. I'm fed up with hearing how Spurs will be Champions League and the usual creaming over Man Utd. Nottm Forest a bigger club than us, etc etc.
Loving it.
Chris Davies
9 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:02:41
9 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:02:41
JC @4,
A very good point. I wonder if it's youthful exuberance, just the way he plays, or simply confidence in his speed to get himself back if he gets done?
Either way, I like it.
A very good point. I wonder if it's youthful exuberance, just the way he plays, or simply confidence in his speed to get himself back if he gets done?
Either way, I like it.
David West
10 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:09:03
10 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:09:03
Dewsbury-Hall the only 9 really, I'd say. Armstrong close behind!
You could put Rohl right up there too, he will be targeted @4 John, but I think he had the licence to get forward today. Against better teams, he'll have to be more disciplined, which I'm hoping won't need to happen when Angus delivers that right-back!
You could put Rohl right up there too, he will be targeted @4 John, but I think he had the licence to get forward today. Against better teams, he'll have to be more disciplined, which I'm hoping won't need to happen when Angus delivers that right-back!
Jeff Armstrong
11 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:01:23
11 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:01:23
Barry didn't get a 9, he got a 7!
Rohl was caught out twice in the first 30 minutes,with terrible positioning, 6 about right.
The three 9s are generous and I agreed with the match crowd who gave MotM to George.
Rohl was caught out twice in the first 30 minutes,with terrible positioning, 6 about right.
The three 9s are generous and I agreed with the match crowd who gave MotM to George.
Mark Steers
12 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:06:35
12 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:06:35
Some good efforts out there today, no one really below average, but two things won the game for Everton today: Jordan Pickford and luck.
So it's 3 points and how you get them doesn't matter. We will win many more home games than we did last season, no doubt about that.
Great to see Branthwaite finish the game -- a couple of times he took a knock and would've probably gone off last season but he dug in; well done, Jarrad.
A massive start.
So it's 3 points and how you get them doesn't matter. We will win many more home games than we did last season, no doubt about that.
Great to see Branthwaite finish the game -- a couple of times he took a knock and would've probably gone off last season but he dug in; well done, Jarrad.
A massive start.
Mike Gaynes
13 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:34:54
13 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:34:54
Jeff is right about Merlin, he was a positional disaster in the first half. Nketiah strolled in unheeded behind him for that shot that produced the brilliant Pickford save off the upright.
Then Nketiah did it again, with Merlin unaware and jogging back, for the setup that Mateta blessedly put off the same post.
Merlin also had a very bad giveaway that produced a shot. He made a great interception early on and looks good going forward, but the young man is nowhere close to a right-back at the moment.
Armstrong was Man of the Match for me. Norgaard better get healthy quick or he's gonna find himself on the bench for us as he did for Arsenal, because this is one special teenager we have on our hands.
Then Nketiah did it again, with Merlin unaware and jogging back, for the setup that Mateta blessedly put off the same post.
Merlin also had a very bad giveaway that produced a shot. He made a great interception early on and looks good going forward, but the young man is nowhere close to a right-back at the moment.
Armstrong was Man of the Match for me. Norgaard better get healthy quick or he's gonna find himself on the bench for us as he did for Arsenal, because this is one special teenager we have on our hands.
John Charles
14 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:35:31
14 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:35:31
Rohl struggled a bit first half. Tarkowski was absolutely awful first half and we were lucky to go in not losing; - 5 at most.
Hackney was good - 7. George was very good - 8
A good overall performance though we were lucky to go in leading at half-time.
Hackney was good - 7. George was very good - 8
A good overall performance though we were lucky to go in leading at half-time.
Sean Kearns
15 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:59:34
15 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:59:34
Barry was a 4, let's have it right! We've gotten so used to absolute shit that we think he played well because he scored a header from 5 yards out! 😂
Fluffing the chance from Dewsbury-Hall was enough to get a 0, the goal clawed him to a 4 at best.
Fluffing the chance from Dewsbury-Hall was enough to get a 0, the goal clawed him to a 4 at best.
Ian Bennett
16 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:13:28
16 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:13:28
You can't have it both ways. If Rohl gets forward, he is going to be out of position at times.
The deft chip to put Eddie Nketiah in was very good. But look at the through-ball that presented Ndiaye with his chance in the first half.
That is the upside you get. An additional runner, that presents our attacker with a great chance.
The deft chip to put Eddie Nketiah in was very good. But look at the through-ball that presented Ndiaye with his chance in the first half.
That is the upside you get. An additional runner, that presents our attacker with a great chance.
Nicolas Piñon
17 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:25:19
17 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:25:19
Pickford 6
Rohl 6
Tarkowski 4
Branthwaite 7
Mykolenko 5.5
Ndyiae 7.5
Armstrog 6.5
Hackney 5.5
Dewsbury-Hall 8
George 7.5
Barry 6
Very lucky we won this one.
Rohl 6
Tarkowski 4
Branthwaite 7
Mykolenko 5.5
Ndyiae 7.5
Armstrog 6.5
Hackney 5.5
Dewsbury-Hall 8
George 7.5
Barry 6
Very lucky we won this one.
Bill Hawker
18 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:34:13
18 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:34:13
For me, George was a 9. A threat every time he had the ball at his feet.
Mykolenko was a 7. Did very well in the first half despite our defensive frailties and then was solid in the 2nd half.
Agreed on Ndiaye. We cannot lose him.
Mykolenko was a 7. Did very well in the first half despite our defensive frailties and then was solid in the 2nd half.
Agreed on Ndiaye. We cannot lose him.
Nigel Scowen
19 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:38:19
19 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:38:19
Nicolas @ 17
Why only a 6 for Pickford?
Why only a 6 for Pickford?
Mike Price
20 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:15:28
20 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:15:28
We’ve got to get rid of Barry and Beto, it’s not rocket science.
Sean Herbert
21 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:41:36
21 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:41:36
Ian @ 16, for once I fully agree with you. Given he was playing out of position, I think Rohl did okay.
Happy with the result and mightily impressed with the midfield performance. Armstrong looks top quality.
But I think Tarkowski needs to be replaced, he is a back-up now, at best.
Happy with the result and mightily impressed with the midfield performance. Armstrong looks top quality.
But I think Tarkowski needs to be replaced, he is a back-up now, at best.
Jay Harris
22 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:46:47
22 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:46:47
Although Ndiaye, Dewsbury-Hall and Armstrong were outstanding, my vote for MotM was Tyrique George. His bravery and skill created most of the opportunities we had and he was unlucky not to be on the scoresheet.
Nice to see some football and a vast improvement on Dycheball but still some way to go at centre-forward and right-back.
Come on, Angus, prove you're a man of your word and get some quality through the door.
Nice to see some football and a vast improvement on Dycheball but still some way to go at centre-forward and right-back.
Come on, Angus, prove you're a man of your word and get some quality through the door.
Nicolas Piñon
23 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:53:47
23 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:53:47
Nigel,
He had a very poor kick that hit Jarrad (I think) that could've been calamitous but otherwise I couldn't see too many good saves. Probably a 7 would be fairer.
He's the England goalkeeper. Standards are always Sky high in his case. I just remember one great save in the first half. Missed others?
He had a very poor kick that hit Jarrad (I think) that could've been calamitous but otherwise I couldn't see too many good saves. Probably a 7 would be fairer.
He's the England goalkeeper. Standards are always Sky high in his case. I just remember one great save in the first half. Missed others?
Nigel Scowen
24 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:59:21
24 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:59:21
A world class save, Nicolas, in my opinion, in fact a very early contender for Save of the Season.
We were lucky not to have conceded in that first half like you said and a lot of that was down to Pickford. I'd go for an 8 myself.
We were lucky not to have conceded in that first half like you said and a lot of that was down to Pickford. I'd go for an 8 myself.
Chris Davies
25 Posted 22/08/2026 at 23:56:26
25 Posted 22/08/2026 at 23:56:26
Nigel @24,
Yep, a game-changing save, imo.
If we'd conceded first today, I think we'd have lost.
Yep, a game-changing save, imo.
If we'd conceded first today, I think we'd have lost.
Darrell Noga
26 Posted 22/08/2026 at 00:23:49
26 Posted 22/08/2026 at 00:23:49
Texas resident here who watched the opener at the Londoner pub this morning with happy Everton supporters. I've been rooting for Toffees since 2005 and the days of Tony Hibbert, Tim Cahill and the Yak.
I thought we were fortunate in the first half but liked what I saw from Armstrong and, as usual, Dewsbury-Hall. George is going to make some youthful errors but I liked his energy and threat potential.
Surprised to see Garner healing up to get some time. Wanted to see Dibling. Best wishes to all on site and hope springs eternal. COYB.
I thought we were fortunate in the first half but liked what I saw from Armstrong and, as usual, Dewsbury-Hall. George is going to make some youthful errors but I liked his energy and threat potential.
Surprised to see Garner healing up to get some time. Wanted to see Dibling. Best wishes to all on site and hope springs eternal. COYB.
Mark Taylor
27 Posted 23/08/2026 at 01:18:48
27 Posted 23/08/2026 at 01:18:48
Barry deserved a 7. The big blemish was his bambi moment after KDH put him one on one but that aside, I thought his link up play was good, miles better than last year. Looks much more on the pace now.
I don't want Grealish instead of Ndiaye. We had a bit of pace in our play today and Grealish would take that away. Stick with what we have.
The midfield all did pretty well today, obvious shout outs for KDH and Armstrong, but for someone making his debut in the PL, Hackney was impressive, didn't look out of place and he suspect he only improves from here.
Rohl is a very handy player, also bringing some pace to the team, but he is an emergency RB at best.
We were leaving gaps in front of the back 4 in the first half which Wharton enjoyed exploiting but tightened up second half. What I liked most was that we are able to play a much quicker style now we have some more dynamic players, and looked less toothless than last season. Harder games to come, though.
I don't want Grealish instead of Ndiaye. We had a bit of pace in our play today and Grealish would take that away. Stick with what we have.
The midfield all did pretty well today, obvious shout outs for KDH and Armstrong, but for someone making his debut in the PL, Hackney was impressive, didn't look out of place and he suspect he only improves from here.
Rohl is a very handy player, also bringing some pace to the team, but he is an emergency RB at best.
We were leaving gaps in front of the back 4 in the first half which Wharton enjoyed exploiting but tightened up second half. What I liked most was that we are able to play a much quicker style now we have some more dynamic players, and looked less toothless than last season. Harder games to come, though.
Mike Corcoran
28 Posted 23/08/2026 at 01:30:02
28 Posted 23/08/2026 at 01:30:02
A proper striker, 2 competent atttacking full backs and a competent Centre back short of a great squad. Hope we get a few in. Strong in all other areas though if the youngsters keep showing.
Mike Corcoran
29 Posted 23/08/2026 at 01:37:06
29 Posted 23/08/2026 at 01:37:06
Armstrong is special. Saw it in his first game. He always looks to make the killer pass and understands the movement of his teammates. Since his loans he has added a truckload of steel too. He had Preston right up in the play offs, they fell apart when he came back to is in January. This Lad is going to be special.
Jonathan Oppenheimer
30 Posted 23/08/2026 at 04:38:57
30 Posted 23/08/2026 at 04:38:57
Obviously all of these number ratings are subjective, but what matters is less the numbers, but rather a more comprehensive analysis if you’re going to write an article about it. That’s what’s lacking here.
Did the player do something exceptional, like score a banger, as my kid calls it, or make an incredible assist or a worldie save to keep the score tied? If yes, then it deserves at least a 8, but likely higher I’d say, unless you’re also at fault for something big. Did you make a huge mistake that led to a goal or a near-goal? If yes, then note that in the scoring. And if you just generally bossed the match or wreaked havoc or didn’t put a foot wrong, but nothing game-changing, then you get near the top, but not all the way there — and all this must take into account certain players’ limitations that they’ll always have, or the fact that they might be playing out of position.
So overall Harry’s score were okay, but Pickford is a 9 for that save alone, despite a few errant kicks. Tarkowski doesn’t deserve a 7 after that terrible header in the opening stages. Mykolenko has to be higher, as he isn’t capable of doing much more for us; he even managed to not cross the ball in all match, which whether intentional or not deserves an extra point because it never works out. Harrison Armstrong was better than I could’ve imagined, but let’s save the 9’s for when he takes it to the next level. The rest of the scores were about right.
Did the player do something exceptional, like score a banger, as my kid calls it, or make an incredible assist or a worldie save to keep the score tied? If yes, then it deserves at least a 8, but likely higher I’d say, unless you’re also at fault for something big. Did you make a huge mistake that led to a goal or a near-goal? If yes, then note that in the scoring. And if you just generally bossed the match or wreaked havoc or didn’t put a foot wrong, but nothing game-changing, then you get near the top, but not all the way there — and all this must take into account certain players’ limitations that they’ll always have, or the fact that they might be playing out of position.
So overall Harry’s score were okay, but Pickford is a 9 for that save alone, despite a few errant kicks. Tarkowski doesn’t deserve a 7 after that terrible header in the opening stages. Mykolenko has to be higher, as he isn’t capable of doing much more for us; he even managed to not cross the ball in all match, which whether intentional or not deserves an extra point because it never works out. Harrison Armstrong was better than I could’ve imagined, but let’s save the 9’s for when he takes it to the next level. The rest of the scores were about right.
Alan J Thompson
31 Posted 23/08/2026 at 06:56:24
31 Posted 23/08/2026 at 06:56:24
Sorry but Tarkowski rated a better performance than Rohl and Mykolenko and as effective as Hackney? If we want a right back who pushes forward then the defender inside of him has to cover but Tarkowski is more about getting a block by standing off an attacker, somewhere between him and the keeper, rather than challenging and making life difficult and when Branthwaite is out Tarkowski is seen to be well passed it.
Ian Bennett
32 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:02:16
32 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:02:16
The criticism of Barry when the ball is fired up to his head is laughable. It might clear the lines, we might win 2nd ball, but this is usually meat and drink for a centre back regardless of who the centre forward is.
If he doesn't win it, it isn't because he's lazy. It's because it is a shite tactic. Same when our defenders win the same ball 99% of the time.
If he doesn't win it, it isn't because he's lazy. It's because it is a shite tactic. Same when our defenders win the same ball 99% of the time.
Andrew Merrick
33 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:18:50
33 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:18:50
Rohl is no RB but Moyes post match as good as said he will grow into it!
Tarks has the arm band and will be picked despite his errors.
Both of these selections are Moyes choices.
Lack of squad depth and injuries meant we had a young players, not all Moyes first choices, but they gave us energy enough to compliment the more trusted Illy and Kiernan.
We have great potential, and although we left gaps today and rode our luck, Jarrard and Jordan performed as we would expect.
Armstrong is a top talent, George is thriving, Hackney is settling in, Rohl looks good going forwards, these guys add a lot of squad depth which is truly valuable.
Player ratings will vary, talent shines, and we have some, enjoyed a team 7.5 collective today.
Tarks has the arm band and will be picked despite his errors.
Both of these selections are Moyes choices.
Lack of squad depth and injuries meant we had a young players, not all Moyes first choices, but they gave us energy enough to compliment the more trusted Illy and Kiernan.
We have great potential, and although we left gaps today and rode our luck, Jarrard and Jordan performed as we would expect.
Armstrong is a top talent, George is thriving, Hackney is settling in, Rohl looks good going forwards, these guys add a lot of squad depth which is truly valuable.
Player ratings will vary, talent shines, and we have some, enjoyed a team 7.5 collective today.
George Cumiskey
34 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:49:50
34 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:49:50
For me Myolenko didn't put a foot wrong, or was I watching a different match 🤔
Mick O\\\'Malley
35 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:17:41
35 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:17:41
Ian Bennett agreed, I'm sick of the Barry pile on all the time, I was made up for the lad and he stays in the team for me, if we sign another striker its to replace Beto as far as I'm concerned
James Hill
36 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:05:52
36 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:05:52
Not sure I would rate Tarkowski that high... he nearly gave away two goals.
Balls were being dropped in behind him. Clearly they were targeting him, thinking he'd lost a yard of pace.
Balls were being dropped in behind him. Clearly they were targeting him, thinking he'd lost a yard of pace.
Mike Powell
37 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:39:28
37 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:39:28
Rohl looked good going forward but got caught out a few times defending. Palace targeted him but he is still better than O'Brien in that position.
Barry is still very clumsy, but happy he scored. Great second-half performance... Let's go and beat Preston on Wednesday.
Barry is still very clumsy, but happy he scored. Great second-half performance... Let's go and beat Preston on Wednesday.
Rob Hooton
38 Posted 23/08/2026 at 11:18:15
38 Posted 23/08/2026 at 11:18:15
I thought some of Barry’s link up play was excellent and he only struggled with the hoof ball (and the comedy stumble when played in first half). Beto was awful when he came on and we lost the linkup play that Barry had been providing, I think he is improving and he does have the knack of scoring.
Hackney showed that he can offer a lot in the transition and it was a promising debut from him.
Has Mykolenko been hitting the gym? He launched a couple of cracking long throws into the box, he was defensively solid and we all know his limitations going forward - Ajay called him a left sided Hibbert on another thread, which is an excellent description IMO (though Mykolenko has already scored more goals for us than Hibbert, should we have rioted?).
Armstrong and George very impressive, as were Branthwaite, KDH and Ndiaye. Good team performance.
Hackney showed that he can offer a lot in the transition and it was a promising debut from him.
Has Mykolenko been hitting the gym? He launched a couple of cracking long throws into the box, he was defensively solid and we all know his limitations going forward - Ajay called him a left sided Hibbert on another thread, which is an excellent description IMO (though Mykolenko has already scored more goals for us than Hibbert, should we have rioted?).
Armstrong and George very impressive, as were Branthwaite, KDH and Ndiaye. Good team performance.
Jimmy Salt
39 Posted 23/08/2026 at 11:41:01
39 Posted 23/08/2026 at 11:41:01
No focus on MOTD or replay of Pickfords save , no surprise I suppose.
And El Capitain nearly cost us with that terrible header in the first half. He will cost us again this season we really need a full season out of Braithwaite.
The young lads played well.
We need a right back, we need a striker.
And El Capitain nearly cost us with that terrible header in the first half. He will cost us again this season we really need a full season out of Braithwaite.
The young lads played well.
We need a right back, we need a striker.
Raymond Fox
40 Posted 23/08/2026 at 12:02:28
40 Posted 23/08/2026 at 12:02:28
The only concerning thing in the game was the chances Palace got, but good opposition are always going to create a few.
We are looking good, Branthwaite staying fit is hugh because Tarkowski is showing his age. We need another centre-back.
Hackney, Armstrong, George, Rohl, Garner, Dibling are our future, with Dewsbury-Hall and Pickford our bedrock.
It's too early to get too excited but I'm liking what I'm seeing.
We are looking good, Branthwaite staying fit is hugh because Tarkowski is showing his age. We need another centre-back.
Hackney, Armstrong, George, Rohl, Garner, Dibling are our future, with Dewsbury-Hall and Pickford our bedrock.
It's too early to get too excited but I'm liking what I'm seeing.
Eric Myles
42 Posted 23/08/2026 at 13:32:48
42 Posted 23/08/2026 at 13:32:48
Gotta be a 10 for Moyes overseeing a win and a clean sheet.
Maybe only a 9 though as it's a home game and expected?
Maybe only a 9 though as it's a home game and expected?
Darren Hind
43 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:25:31
43 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:25:31
Moyes doesn't deserve more than a 4 or 5.
Selecting Tarkowski is a howler he will continue to repeat. The goalposts won't always come to his rescue!
Selecting Tarkowski is a howler he will continue to repeat. The goalposts won't always come to his rescue!
Dale Self
45 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:46:03
45 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:46:03
Welcome Darrell,
Get your Texas-sized opinions posted on this site regularly. Don't be shy, no one else is.
Get your Texas-sized opinions posted on this site regularly. Don't be shy, no one else is.
Graham Hammond
46 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:54:12
46 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:54:12
It was pleasing to get the win yesterday, and pleasing to see Moyes injecting a little bit more youth into the starting line-up.
From my point of view, it is hard to get excited with James Tarkowski in the first XI. I firmly believe he is now the worst of our four centre-back options, and nothing I saw yesterday has changed that view, despite the clean sheet!
Harry gave Tarkowski a rating of 7, he must have been watching a different game to me! Sorry Harry. The problem is not Tarkowski, of course, he is what he is, and he is where he is at, but if our manager persists with him throughout the season, we are being sold short as a team and as paying supporters.
You have to feel for Jake O'Brien, we risk losing him if he persists with the Club Captain and Jarrad stays fit. Jake must be well pissed off right now, and rightly so.
From my point of view, it is hard to get excited with James Tarkowski in the first XI. I firmly believe he is now the worst of our four centre-back options, and nothing I saw yesterday has changed that view, despite the clean sheet!
Harry gave Tarkowski a rating of 7, he must have been watching a different game to me! Sorry Harry. The problem is not Tarkowski, of course, he is what he is, and he is where he is at, but if our manager persists with him throughout the season, we are being sold short as a team and as paying supporters.
You have to feel for Jake O'Brien, we risk losing him if he persists with the Club Captain and Jarrad stays fit. Jake must be well pissed off right now, and rightly so.
Ian Wilkins
47 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:07:33
47 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:07:33
Rohl, full of running and enthusiasm, was positionally poor at right back. Could have cost us twice when they hit the post.
I don’t think that’s the position for him.
Lot to like with George, Armstrong, Hackney, but I’m sure Moyes will add more experience when others fit.
Beto poor when came on, we need to add another striker.
Ndiaye too important to lose for me. Probably doesn’t fill his goal quota, but he brings something very different and plenty of assists.
I don’t think that’s the position for him.
Lot to like with George, Armstrong, Hackney, but I’m sure Moyes will add more experience when others fit.
Beto poor when came on, we need to add another striker.
Ndiaye too important to lose for me. Probably doesn’t fill his goal quota, but he brings something very different and plenty of assists.
Michael Kenrick
48 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:11:17
48 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:11:17
Graham, some good points there.
It's vital that young players are given regular minutes as a priority, but Moyes is even more stubborn when in a winning position because his old brain still thinks you can't slate any player by bringing them off if the team is playing well and, in this case, is 2-0 up and you risk losing the lead.
Making his first subs on 79 minutes in the era of 9-man benches is an absolute joke and waste of resources. The last 18 minutes of the game were basically almost farcical as a result.
To solve this particular problem, maybe Moyes should switch to a back three of O'Brien, Tarkowski and Branthwaite but I don't think he likes that shape, despite having at least Rohl on the right as the perfect wing-back.
It's vital that young players are given regular minutes as a priority, but Moyes is even more stubborn when in a winning position because his old brain still thinks you can't slate any player by bringing them off if the team is playing well and, in this case, is 2-0 up and you risk losing the lead.
Making his first subs on 79 minutes in the era of 9-man benches is an absolute joke and waste of resources. The last 18 minutes of the game were basically almost farcical as a result.
To solve this particular problem, maybe Moyes should switch to a back three of O'Brien, Tarkowski and Branthwaite but I don't think he likes that shape, despite having at least Rohl on the right as the perfect wing-back.
Dale Self
49 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:21:54
49 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:21:54
Moyes needs to begin some 60min/30min rotations in midfield. Up front, it is less clear we have enough to do that but we need regular rotation with sets of players familiar to their positional partners.
And being a Rohl enthusiast, I admit he struggled positionally yesterday. Hard to tell if he was lured out of position trying to block the pass angle and pressure the ball, or if he just lost his bearings a couple of times.
I suspect he is doing what Garner, or is it Gardener, was doing when at right-back: defending with a midfielder mentality on the back line. Sometimes, you cannot go to the ball, you have to walk the possession back without giving up the angle for the penetrating pass.
That being stated, I think Rohl figures it out if F'Kinnear doesn't.
And being a Rohl enthusiast, I admit he struggled positionally yesterday. Hard to tell if he was lured out of position trying to block the pass angle and pressure the ball, or if he just lost his bearings a couple of times.
I suspect he is doing what Garner, or is it Gardener, was doing when at right-back: defending with a midfielder mentality on the back line. Sometimes, you cannot go to the ball, you have to walk the possession back without giving up the angle for the penetrating pass.
That being stated, I think Rohl figures it out if F'Kinnear doesn't.
Darrell Noga
51 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:05:10
51 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:05:10
Dale @45. Thanks, I really enjoy the comments. I try to follow the team news and liked that there seems to be more actual thought and sometimes humour in this thread.
Got to search out Everton content and conversation in Texas but I have converted a couple of friends. I wear a T-shirt around that says “Merseyside is Blue” and no one had a clue, until one day a guy walked up to me in a store and said “I respectfully disagree with your shirt.”
Of course his family was from Liverpool and he was a Red. Appreciate the welcome.
Got to search out Everton content and conversation in Texas but I have converted a couple of friends. I wear a T-shirt around that says “Merseyside is Blue” and no one had a clue, until one day a guy walked up to me in a store and said “I respectfully disagree with your shirt.”
Of course his family was from Liverpool and he was a Red. Appreciate the welcome.
Dale Self
52 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:20:27
52 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:20:27
Nice Darrell, I'm originally from Oklahoma btw. Living out west now, and sadly, only Red Shites have commented on any Blue stuff worn.
Keep posting. And don't worry about any text yelling back at you, it just means you made a decent point.
Mind your English manners though. ;)
Keep posting. And don't worry about any text yelling back at you, it just means you made a decent point.
Mind your English manners though. ;)
Jeff Armstrong
53 Posted 23/08/2026 at 18:54:11
53 Posted 23/08/2026 at 18:54:11
Welcome Darrell, have you any brothers called Darrell?
(Old Bob Newhart sketch joke)
(Old Bob Newhart sketch joke)
Les Callan
54 Posted 23/08/2026 at 19:18:52
54 Posted 23/08/2026 at 19:18:52
He might have scored yesterday (a header off the back of the defender) but, let's face it, Barry is a joke.
Jeff Armstrong
55 Posted 23/08/2026 at 19:23:27
55 Posted 23/08/2026 at 19:23:27
It takes unquestionable skill to head it off Chris Richard's mop and still get it past a decent keeper like Henderson
I mean, the power it must have had before hitting that burst mattress and still go in, was quite something to behold.
Well done, Thierno!
I mean, the power it must have had before hitting that burst mattress and still go in, was quite something to behold.
Well done, Thierno!
Eric Myles
56 Posted 23/08/2026 at 22:47:29
56 Posted 23/08/2026 at 22:47:29
Graham #46,
O'Brien is probably wondering why he's lost his place to Röhl rather than Tarkowski.
O'Brien is probably wondering why he's lost his place to Röhl rather than Tarkowski.
raymond smyth
57 Posted 24/08/2026 at 10:00:20
57 Posted 24/08/2026 at 10:00:20
Scores far to high especially Tarks.
We were lucky as we were all over the place for much of the first half.
We were lucky as we were all over the place for much of the first half.
Martin Farrington
58 Posted 24/08/2026 at 10:46:02
58 Posted 24/08/2026 at 10:46:02
Im temporarily back from Spain, staying in the Gloucestershire area, so no chance of watching the game. I watched the SS highlights on Utube. As such I think some of those ratings are far too high.
The Club Captain would be a solid 4.
Tarks was calamitous, which is the way he starts all seasons. The atrocious backwards pub football header. Then their final chance where he stood still in his 'zone' watching the palace player move in, go behind him then move easily in front of him. Thankfully missing a sitter gifted to him by Tarks uselessness.
Yes Rohl was out of position but the club captain failed to help him through the game, directing him and adding the little bit of support he should have. Why he is in the team is only because Dino Davey is manager.
Defensively we are a mess. Players running into zones and sticking there. This is a gift to the opposition.
It happened in several friendlies. Attacking players either step back or move into the centre of the zones knowing they wont be challanged and thus having the chances that Palace easily obtained.
Everton really cheated defeat. However there have benn many occasions where, due to 3rd rate players, we have failed to take a myriad of chances in a match, only to be hit by a sucker punch or two.
The fans have yet again been let down by the ceo and over exaggerated recruitment team of excellence.
With clear disparity between owners including the puppet Ceo and Moyes, who in turn has a toxic relationship with certain players, things are not going to improve.
Deadline day looms.
I hope genial Mike G is right in his post season reaction that Kinnear has money and will bring in players of quality.
Is that a flying . (Points to a winged pig)
The Club Captain would be a solid 4.
Tarks was calamitous, which is the way he starts all seasons. The atrocious backwards pub football header. Then their final chance where he stood still in his 'zone' watching the palace player move in, go behind him then move easily in front of him. Thankfully missing a sitter gifted to him by Tarks uselessness.
Yes Rohl was out of position but the club captain failed to help him through the game, directing him and adding the little bit of support he should have. Why he is in the team is only because Dino Davey is manager.
Defensively we are a mess. Players running into zones and sticking there. This is a gift to the opposition.
It happened in several friendlies. Attacking players either step back or move into the centre of the zones knowing they wont be challanged and thus having the chances that Palace easily obtained.
Everton really cheated defeat. However there have benn many occasions where, due to 3rd rate players, we have failed to take a myriad of chances in a match, only to be hit by a sucker punch or two.
The fans have yet again been let down by the ceo and over exaggerated recruitment team of excellence.
With clear disparity between owners including the puppet Ceo and Moyes, who in turn has a toxic relationship with certain players, things are not going to improve.
Deadline day looms.
I hope genial Mike G is right in his post season reaction that Kinnear has money and will bring in players of quality.
Is that a flying . (Points to a winged pig)
Darrell Noga
59 Posted 24/08/2026 at 17:08:48
59 Posted 24/08/2026 at 17:08:48
Jeff @53 and 55. Thanks for the welcome. No similarly named siblings here but I was one of multiple Darrells on a basketball team in my younger years (with three different spellings).
I do agree with your appreciation for Chris Richards's hair. Thought Barry's header would go in there and never come out.
I was going to post complaining about Moyes's substitution timing and “strategy“ but others here have already made the point well so I will wait until the close of the transfer window and then pile on.
Regards.
I do agree with your appreciation for Chris Richards's hair. Thought Barry's header would go in there and never come out.
I was going to post complaining about Moyes's substitution timing and “strategy“ but others here have already made the point well so I will wait until the close of the transfer window and then pile on.
Regards.
Brian Cleveland
60 Posted 25/08/2026 at 15:22:23
60 Posted 25/08/2026 at 15:22:23
Jeff @55 "burst mattress" had me choking on my coffee.
Agree with most comments that the ratings were really too high. We rode our luck a lot that first half.
Tarks was making me cringe every time he got near a ball (if indeed he managed to get near it). Mykolenko was decent, give the guy a break.
Hackney had a very solid first game, did not look out of place.
Armstrong is our midfield Rolls Royce to go with Branthwaite at the back. Efficient and comfortable.
I love Röhl, but I'd like to see him in his proper position. He's not a full back, but perhaps he will be converted.
I love O'Brien, but I'd love to see him in his proper position. He's not a full back, but perhaps he will be converted. Oh wait, déjà vu ?
Agree with most comments that the ratings were really too high. We rode our luck a lot that first half.
Tarks was making me cringe every time he got near a ball (if indeed he managed to get near it). Mykolenko was decent, give the guy a break.
Hackney had a very solid first game, did not look out of place.
Armstrong is our midfield Rolls Royce to go with Branthwaite at the back. Efficient and comfortable.
I love Röhl, but I'd like to see him in his proper position. He's not a full back, but perhaps he will be converted.
I love O'Brien, but I'd love to see him in his proper position. He's not a full back, but perhaps he will be converted. Oh wait, déjà vu ?
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1 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:56:01