Ahead of tomorrow’s game against Newcastle United, we look at three memorable Everton goals against the Magpies.
3 – Tim Cahill, Everton 2-0 Newcastle United. May 2005
Everton’s final home game of the season and Champions League qualification within reach. The Context of this goal is significant, and indeed this season as a whole.
The Blues had fought off relegation the previous year, before selling Wayne Rooney. Indeed, among many so-called experts, we were favourites to go down.
A young David Moyes had other ideas and recruited a player who would go on to become a true modern icon. My favourite Everton player (alongside Baines, never could decide between the two).
Tim Cahill’s right-footed swipe into the roof of the Gwladys Street net secured all three points for the Blues. Indeed, it all but secured Champions League football at Goodison Park.
2 – Alex Iwobi, Everton 1-0 Newcastle United. March 2022
One of the most bizarre games I’ve ever been to. Again, context is important here. In the midst of a relegation battle, Everton were on a run of four straight defeats.
Midfielder Allan was booked for a foul on Allan Saint-Maximin. Craig Pawson then changed his mind and sent off the Brazilian.
This was shortly after a Just Stop Oil protester had cable tied himself to the Gwladys Street goalpost, to the bemusement of Asmir Begovic.
14 minutes of additional time was to be played, with the Toffees down to 10 men. Nerves were wrought, but Alex Iwobi kept his cool to calmly slot the ball home and put three points between Everton and the bottom three.
Goodison erupted with a ferocious energy as exasperation transformed into ecstasy. A 99th minute winner in a relegation scrap will do that.
1 – Leighton Baines, Newcastle United 1-2 Everton. January 2013
So this one was at St James’ Park, rather than at home. However, I simply couldn’t not mention this one.
First game of the New Year and Everton are one down. The Blues win a free kick 30 yards from goal.
Up steps Leighton Baines with the screamer to end all screamers. Even on his impressive YouTube compilation, this one stands out.
Outside of the left boot, right in the top corner. No messing about. Big Vic then scored the winner 90 seconds after coming on, lifting Everton to fifth.