Everton vs Nottingham Forest Report
Scorers: Gueye 29’, McNeil 76’
Everton boosted their survival prospects with a vital 2-0 win over fellow Premier League strugglers Nottingham Forest, securing only their second victory in the last 16 league games.
This result provided much-needed optimism for the Toffees in their bid to avoid relegation and lifted them five points clear of the bottom three.
Early Chances and Everton’s Breakthrough
Both sides came into this match desperate for points, given their recent form and off-field issues. Forest were first to test Everton’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, with Neco Williams’ close-range effort. The hosts responded through Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whose header from Dwight McNeil’s cross went straight into the hands of Matz Sels.
Everton took the lead in the 29th minute through Idrissa Gueye, who struck from the edge of the box after Ola Aina’s header fell into his path.
Despite moments of nervousness, Pickford’s brilliant point-blank save to deny Chris Wood kept Everton ahead. However, there were controversial penalty appeals, with Ashley Young’s challenge on Gio Reyna and a handball claim from Callum Hudson-Odoi’s cross, both of which were turned down by the referee.
Forest’s Missed Chances and McNeil’s Goal
After the break, Forest came close to equalising, but Morgan Gibbs-White’s missed opportunity to level the score proved costly. Everton doubled their lead through Dwight McNeil, whose long-range strike clipped off the post to mark his 200th PL appearance.
Despite a late scare when Beto was stretchered off after a collision with Gibbs-White, Everton held on to secure three valuable points.
Impact on Relegation Battle
This win moves Sean Dyche’s side further away from the relegation zone, providing a much-needed confidence boost. Forest’s fourth defeat in five away games leaves them just one point above Luton Town, with four games remaining to secure their PL status.
Everton’s victory not only eases relegation fears but also maintains hopes of a late-season surge to safety.
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Everton v Nott’m Forest, 2023/24 | Premier League