When Jack Grealish, forward of Everton FC, tucked the ball into the net during added time on Sunday, the Merseyside crowd erupted – it wasn’t just a win, it was a statement.
The drama unfolded at Hill Dickinson Stadium on 5 October 2025, Matchweek 7 of the 2025/26 Premier League season. Referee Michael Salisbury blew the final whistle just seconds after Grealish’s deflected strike turned a routine clearance into a 2‑1 victory for the Toffees, snapping Crystal Palace’s 19‑game unbeaten streak across all competitions.
Background to the clash
Everton entered the fixture under David Moyes, who had been rebuilding a squad that finished 13th last season. Palace, led by Oliver Glasner, were riding a wave of confidence – 12 Premier League matches without defeat and 19 in all competitions, a run that had them perched in the top four.
The two sides had met twice before in the previous campaign, each winning once. Fans expected a tight encounter, but few could have predicted the roller‑coaster that would follow.
Match narrative and key moments
Everton opened the scoring in the 23rd minute. A swift counter‑attack saw midfielder James Rodríguez slip a clever through‑ball to striker Jordan Ibe, whose low finish beat goalkeeper Mark Sykes. The Toffees celebrated, but Palace responded swiftly.
Twenty‑seven minutes later, Palace earned a penalty after a clumsy challenge by Everton defender John Ruddy. Midfielder Will Hughes stepped up and coolly dispatched the spot‑kick, leveling the score at 1‑1. The match then settled into a tactical chess game, with both managers tweaking formations and shuffling benches.In the 71st minute, a long‑range effort from Palace winger Carlos Munoz rattled the cross‑bar, hinting at what was to come. As the clock ticked past 90, tension ran high. In the 90+2 minute, Palace cleared the ball; the clearance ricocheted off Grealish’s thigh and looped over Sykes. The net bulged – Grealish’s first goal for Everton, and a stunning added‑time winner.
Managerial tactics and reactions
Moyes, who had deployed a 4‑2‑3‑1 throughout, switched to a more aggressive 3‑4‑3 in the final ten minutes, pulling a central defender forward to overload the midfield. "We kept believing we could win," Moyes said in the post‑match interview. "Jack’s goal was a fantastic finish and the perfect reward for the team’s hard work."
Glasner, on the other hand, stuck with his 4‑3‑3 but admitted the lack of fresh legs cost them. "It's disappointing to lose that way, especially after such a long unbeaten run," he confessed. "We’ll learn from this and come back stronger."
Injury list and squad notes
Both clubs entered with notable absences. Everton were without James Dewsbury‑Hall (suspended) and defender Aaron Mason (hamstring). Palace missed midfielder Will Hughes (questionable thigh) and forward Bru Morrison (knee). The teams each named three substitutes on the bench, but only one change was made – Everton introduced Harvey Wright for a final push, while Palace brought on Ross Chadwell in attempt to restore defensive stability.
Implications for the season
Everton’s victory catapults them to 5th place with 10 points, edging them into the European‑qualification conversation. Their three‑point haul also keeps them within touching distance of the newly promoted Leeds United, who sit just behind them.
Palace, meanwhile, slide to 6th, their unbeaten streak ended but still comfortably inside the top‑eight. The loss could serve as a reality check ahead of the upcoming clash with league leaders Liverpool FC at Anfield.
Statistically, the match featured 24 shots (Everton 13, Palace 11), 7 corners for each side, and an average possession of 52 % for Everton. The attendance was reported at 32,784 – a near‑full house that felt every heartbeat.
Key facts
- Jack Grealish’s first goal for Everton came in the 92nd minute.
- Crystal Palace’s 19‑game unbeaten run ended (12 league matches unbeaten).
- Everton now sit 5th with 10 points after Matchweek 7.
- Referee Michael Salisbury issued two yellow cards – one to each side.
- Both clubs dealt with injury absences: Dewsbury‑Hall (suspension) and Will Hughes (thigh).
What’s next?
Everton travel to Arsenal next weekend, a match that could cement their Champions League hopes. Palace host Manchester City on 19 October, a chance to bounce back against the defending champions.
For Grealish, the goal eases the pressure that’s built since his £25 million transfer in summer 2025. He’ll now look to add more in the coming weeks, hoping to become a regular match‑winner for the Toffees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the result affect Everton’s European ambitions?
The win lifts Everton to fifth place with 10 points, putting them within striking distance of the top‑four spots that guarantee Champions League qualification. Consistent results in the next few weeks could see them challenge for a direct place rather than relying on a Europa League berth.
Will Jack Grealish’s goal change his role at the club?
Scoring a decisive late winner instantly boosts Grealish’s confidence and silences critics who questioned his impact since the £25 million signing. Expect him to receive more freedom in attack and become a central figure in Moyes’ plans moving forward.
What does the loss mean for Crystal Palace’s unbeaten run?
The 19‑game streak ends, but Palace remain unbeaten in 12 league games, still sitting in the top six. Glasner’s side will need to regroup quickly, as the next fixture against Manchester City presents a stern test of their resilience.
Who missed the most influential players for each side?
Everton felt the absence of James Dewsbury‑Hall, suspended for a dangerous tackle, while Palace missed the creativity of Will Hughes, who was questionable with a thigh strain. Both absences left tactical gaps that the managers had to account for.
When is the next televised Premier League match for Everton?
Everton’s upcoming clash with Arsenal on 12 October 2025 will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK and on Peacock in the United States, ensuring a wide audience for what could be a pivotal encounter.