Everton vs Ipswich Report

Scorers: Beto 26’, McNeil 35’; Enciso 41’, Hirst 79’

Everton squandered a two-goal lead in the final-ever 3 PM Premier League kick-off at Goodison Park, as a spirited second-half comeback from Ipswich Town earned the visitors a 2-2 draw. Goals from Beto and Dwight McNeil had seemingly put the Toffees in control, but Julio Enciso’s thunderbolt and George Hirst’s header ensured the spoils were shared. The result sees Everton’s winless home run stretch to six games, while Ipswich salvage a rare point in a largely forgettable campaign.

First Half – Everton Cruise Before Enciso Strikes

The Toffees were determined to finish their final stretch at Goodison on a high note, and an encounter with already-relegated Ipswich seemed the ideal opportunity. Everton started well and created the better chances, finally breaking the deadlock midway through the half. Carlos Alcaraz swung in a cross from the right, and Beto rose highest to power a header past Alex Palmer at the back post.

Dwight McNeil doubled the hosts’ lead not long after in spectacular fashion, cutting inside from the right flank before rifling a thunderous left-footed strike into the far bottom corner.

However, the Toffees’ two-goal cushion was halved in sensational style before half-time, as Enciso unleashed a 30-yard rocket into the top right corner to breathe life into the visitors.

Second Half – Hirst Completes the Comeback

Enciso nearly levelled proceedings shortly after the restart but elected to shoot from distance rather than square for Omari Hutchinson, and his effort was easily saved by Jordan Pickford. Ipswich continued to push forward, and they were eventually rewarded when Hutchinson beat his marker down the right before lifting a cross to the back post, where George Hirst arrived to head home and make it 2-2.

With momentum now on their side, Kieran McKenna’s side looked the likelier to snatch a late winner. However, despite finishing the stronger of the two teams, the visitors couldn’t find a third goal. Everton, on the other hand, never truly recovered from surrendering their lead and were left to rue another missed opportunity at home.

What It Means

For Ipswich, the result showcases the fight that was missing earlier in the season but does little to change their impending return to the Championship. Everton’s focus now shifts to a farewell match at Goodison Park in two weeks, where they’ll hope to end a disappointing campaign on a brighter note.

Key Stats

• Everton are winless in six consecutive home Premier League matches.
• Ipswich have now earned more away points (15) than home points (7) this season.
• Julio Enciso’s goal was his second from outside the box in the PL this term.

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Everton v Ipswich, 2024/25 | Premier League