David Moyes Proves His Tactical Class as Everton Break Palace’s 19-Match Unbeaten Run

Resilient Everton Rise to Seventh After Dramatic Win Over Crystal Palace

Everton produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the Premier League weekend as they overturned a first-half deficit to beat Crystal Palace 2–1 at Goodison Park. The victory not only ended Palace’s 19-match unbeaten run in all competitions but also lifted the Toffees to seventh place in the table, continuing their steady climb under David Moyes.

The visitors started the brighter of the two sides, controlling possession and pushing Everton back into their own half. Their patience was rewarded in the 37th minute when Daniel Muñoz finished off a neat attacking move involving Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eberechi Eze, calmly slotting home to put Palace ahead. Everton struggled to create clear chances before the break, as Palace’s midfield pairing of Cheick Doucouré and Adam Wharton dictated play and cut off service to the Toffees’ front line.

However, the second half told a completely different story. Moyes, sensing the game slipping away, made inspired changes — introducing Charly Alcaraz and Beto. The substitutions immediately injected pace, energy, and attacking intent. Alcaraz began linking play between midfield and attack, while Beto’s presence unsettled Palace’s defenders. Everton’s pressure finally paid off in the 76th minute when Tim Iroegbunam was brought down in the box, and Iliman Ndiaye calmly stepped up to convert the penalty, levelling the score at 1–1.

With the home crowd roaring them on, Everton continued to push forward in search of a winner. Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Jack Grealish, who had been desperate to make his mark since joining from Manchester City, latched onto a loose ball inside the box. His shot took a deflection and looped over the Palace goalkeeper, sealing his first goal for Everton and completing an unforgettable comeback.

The final whistle was met with deafening cheers from the Goodison faithful, a victory that felt as emotional as it was important. The result means Everton now sit 7th in the Premier League with 11 points, just one point behind Palace, who drop to 6th. For Moyes, it was a statement performance that demonstrated his team’s belief, resilience, and tactical evolution.

Four Things We Learnt

Moyes’ Tactical Adjustments Were Spot On
His halftime substitutions completely changed the momentum. Alcaraz and Beto added fresh energy and directness, proving once again that Moyes’ in-game management remains one of his greatest strengths.

Iliman Ndiaye Is Becoming Everton’s Main Man
The Senegalese forward is growing in confidence each week. His composure from the penalty spot and involvement in the winning goal highlight his increasing importance to the team.
Jack Grealish’s Redemption Moment
After struggling to find form, Grealish’s late strike could be the moment that reignites his career. His passion, work rate, and determination were evident, and his celebration showed how much the goal meant to him.
Everton’s Mentality Has Transformed
In previous seasons, Everton might have folded under pressure. This time, they showed maturity, patience, and belief the hallmarks of a side growing in confidence and unity under Moyes.