In a closely contested Premier League match on 26th February 2025, Everton secured a 1-1 draw against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. This result extended the Toffees’ unbeaten league run to seven matches, showcasing their resilience under manager David Moyes. The game featured notable performances, with Jake O’Brien netting his first goal for Everton and Carlos Alcaraz delivering a standout display.
Match Overview
Both teams created opportunities in the first half, but Brentford broke the deadlock in stoppage time. Yoane Wissa capitalised on a rebound after Bryan Mbeumo’s header hit the crossbar, nodding the ball into the net to give the hosts the lead. Everton responded in the second half, with O’Brien heading home Vitaliy Mykolenko’s cross in the 77th minute to level the score. Despite late chances for both sides, the match concluded with honours even.
Player Ratings
Jordan Pickford – 6/10
The Everton goalkeeper had a relatively quiet evening, with limited opportunities to influence the game. He was left exposed during Brentford’s goal and had little chance to prevent Wissa’s close-range header. Pickford made himself prominent in the closing stages, ensuring Brentford couldn’t snatch a late winner.
Jake O’Brien – 8/10
Celebrating his 100th Premier League appearance, O’Brien was instrumental in Everton’s defence and attack. He effectively contained Brentford’s forwards and showcased his aerial prowess by scoring the equaliser with a diving header. His performance earned him the Man of the Match accolade.
James Tarkowski – 7/10
As captain, Tarkowski led by example, displaying composure and strength at the back. He dominated aerial duels and made crucial clearances to thwart Brentford’s advances. His partnership with Jarrad Branthwaite continues to solidify Everton’s defensive stability.
Jarrad Branthwaite – 7/10
Branthwaite delivered a solid performance, demonstrating maturity beyond his years. He maintained a high passing accuracy, contributing to Everton’s build-up play from the back. His defensive positioning was commendable, limiting Brentford’s clear-cut chances.
Vitaliy Mykolenko – 8/10
Operating on the left flank, Mykolenko was industrious both defensively and offensively. He assisted O’Brien’s goal with a well-delivered cross and effectively managed Brentford’s wingers throughout the match.
Idrissa Gana Gueye – 6/10
Gueye was pivotal in breaking up Brentford’s midfield play, showcasing his ball-recovery skills. However, he occasionally lacked composure in possession, leading to misplaced passes. He was substituted in the 75th minute as Everton sought fresh impetus.
James Garner – 6/10
Garner exhibited energy and determination in midfield, engaging in key tackles and interceptions. Despite his defensive contributions, his forward passing lacked precision, limiting Everton’s attacking transitions.
Jesper Lindstrøm – 5/10
Lindstrøm offered an energetic outlet on the right wing but struggled to make a significant impact. He found it challenging to bypass Brentford’s full-backs and was substituted in the 75th minute.
Carlos Alcaraz – 8/10
Alcaraz was a driving force in Everton’s midfield, displaying creativity and vision. He was involved in several attacking moves, including a header that set up a chance for Beto. His performance was instrumental in linking play between midfield and attack.
Jack Harrison – 6/10
Harrison worked diligently on the left wing, providing width and attempting crosses into the box. However, his delivery often lacked accuracy, and he could not create clear scoring opportunities.
Beto – 5/10
Beto endured a frustrating evening, missing three clear one-on-one chances against Brentford’s goalkeeper, Mark Flekken. Despite his positioning and movement creating opportunities, his finishing let him down, preventing Everton from securing all three points.
Substitutes
Ashley Young – 6/10
Introduced in the 75th minute, Young provided experience and stability on the right flank. He maintained defensive solidity and supported forward play when possible.
Tim Iroegbunam – 6/10
Coming on for Gueye in the 75th minute, Iroegbunam added fresh legs to the midfield. He maintained positional discipline and contributed to Everton’s defensive efforts in the closing stages.
Manager’s Insight
David Moyes expressed mixed feelings post-match, acknowledging the team’s resilience but lamenting missed opportunities. “We showed great character to come back, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal,” Moyes stated. “Beto has been fantastic for us, and tonight was just one of those nights. We’ll work on finishing in training.”
Looking Ahead
The draw places Everton 15th in the Premier League table, 15 points clear of the relegation zone. With their unbeaten streak intact, the Toffees will aim to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures, focusing on converting chances to secure victories.
