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Jack Grealish's Everton debut spoiled by controversial Leeds penalty

The game at Elland road ended in a 1-0 win for lads in white as Grealish's loan move from Man City was one to forget following a late penalty decision that left David Moyes furious

22:52, 18 Aug 2025Updated 22:52, 18 Aug 2025

Jack Grealish and James Tarkowski have words with the officials at full time

Jack Grealish and James Tarkowski have words with the officials at full time(Image: AFP or licensors)

Leeds United kicked off their Premier League campaign with a victory at Everton this evening, demonstrating they're prepared to scrap for survival.

The hosts were compelled to depend on a spot-kick from newcomer Lukas Nmecha, but deserved all three points for their display throughout the match. Any Toffees supporter will undoubtedly argue the penalty was given under dubious circumstances.

David Moyes protested with the match officials at the final whistle, but it was too late to stop the celebrations in the away end to the tune of 'I Predict a Riot'. Anton Stach's strike was blocked by James Tarkowski's arm, though he tried to keep it tucked behind his back.

Lukas Nmecha

Leeds United's Lukas Nmecha celebrates after scoring the penalty(Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Referee Chris Kavanagh awarded the penalty before VAR carefully reviewed his call. To the joy of Leeds' boisterous travelling fans, the decision stood and Nmecha delivered the perfect conversion from twelve yards.

As Leeds made their return to the top flight, it was exactly what everyone anticipated at Goodison Park. A thunderous atmosphere lifted an energetic and efficient press from the visitors, leaving Everton unable to establish any meaningful control of the contest.

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David Moyes couldn't believe the penalty decision

David Moyes couldn't believe the penalty decision(Image: 2025 Getty Images)

The initial signs following Sunderland's opening day triumph suggested this season's promoted sides won't surrender their Premier League place without a battle, and Leeds' performance began in identical fashion. "We know what we are capable of achieving and we have confidence in that," said Ethan Ampadu before kick-off, reports the Mirror.

"No-one is going to roll over and accept what has happened in the past couple of years of teams going up and going back down. We are all going to fight to change that. We have worked so hard in the pre-season to get our baseline and our standard. Every day we are improving to do more and be better."

Ethan Ampadu

Ethan Ampadu enjoyed Leed's return to the Premier League(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Even as he prepared to take a throw-in, the former Chelsea academy graduate couldn't suppress a grin as the home supporters engaged with him. Leeds were asserting themselves against a Premier League mainstay, after all.

Yet Daniel Farke's men had little to show for their efforts after 45 minutes - 12 attempts with merely one troubling the goalkeeper, whilst Everton hadn't managed to register a single effort. It was possibly an indication that both sides are currently found wanting.

Farke will be eager to incorporate Dominic Calvert-Lewin into his strategy soon, whilst speculation continues regarding the potential acquisition of AC Milan striker Noah Okafor. Greater firepower will be essential throughout the campaign if they cannot make the most of such overwhelming control.

It came as no surprise to see new loanee Jack Grealish limbering up on the turf for Everton at half-time and receiving tactical guidance. However, he was compelled to bide his time until the closing 20 minutes before getting his chance to influence proceedings.

This encounter featured two squads packed with players eager to demonstrate their worth, including Jack Harrison. The Leeds winger had spent two campaigns on loan at Everton but emerged from the substitutes' bench for his homecoming to Elland Road, having been absent during the club's Championship ventures.

It seems his actions have ruffled some feathers as he was met with a smattering of boos, from his own fans rather than the vocal away support. The winger will need to win back his own supporters, while aiding the club's battle for survival in the Premier League.

David Moyes may feel vindicated by this. The Toffees boss has been calling for at least three more signings, even after the arrival of players such as Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

While Grealish still needs to find his footing within the team, Monday evening certainly highlighted that Moyes has work to do for his team to succeed.

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The night belonged to Leeds and their new signing who made a significant impact. Nmecha delivered when it mattered most, and the Yorkshire side are off the mark.

Marching on together, for the most part.

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