David Moyes’ much-anticipated return to Everton got off to a disappointing start as Ollie Watkins’ second-half strike secured a 1-0 victory for Aston Villa at Goodison Park on Wednesday night.
The defeat leaves Everton just one point above the relegation zone, while Unai Emery’s Villa climbed to seventh place, closing in on the Premier League’s top four.
Match Highlights
First Half: A Cautious Start
- Both sides approached the first half cautiously, with few clear-cut opportunities created.
- Everton’s best chance came from a set piece, but Villa’s defense, marshaled by Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings, held firm.
- Villa threatened through Leon Bailey, whose curling effort narrowly missed the target.
Second Half: Watkins Breaks the Deadlock
- 62nd Minute: Ollie Watkins latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Morgan Rogers, outpaced Everton’s defense, and coolly slotted past Jordan Pickford.
- The goal ended Villa’s streak of five consecutive away league defeats and highlighted their clinical edge on the counter-attack.
Late Drama
- Everton pushed for an equalizer, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin spurning a golden opportunity in stoppage time. The striker blasted over from close range, leaving the home crowd in frustration.
- Villa held firm during the closing moments to secure a crucial three points.
Key Stats and Analysis
Everton’s Struggles in Front of Goal
- Everton have now failed to score in 9 of their last 11 Premier League games, underlining their attacking woes.
- Despite enjoying more possession (57%), the Toffees managed just two shots on target.
Villa’s Road Revival
- Villa secured their first away league win since October, improving their record to two victories in two Premier League games in 2025.
- The visitors’ defensive solidity and counter-attacking prowess were key to their success, with Watkins’ goal showcasing their efficiency.
Moyes’ Unhappy Return
- Moyes’ second spell at Everton began 11 years and 241 days after his first stint ended.
- The Scotsman’s side showed signs of resilience but lacked the creativity and cutting edge to break down Villa’s well-organized defense.
What’s Next?
Everton
Moyes faces an uphill battle to steer Everton clear of relegation danger. His immediate priority will be addressing the team’s lack of goals and finding a way to spark life into a struggling attack.
Aston Villa
Villa’s victory boosts their hopes of European qualification. Emery’s side will look to build on this momentum as they aim to challenge for a top-four spot.
Conclusion
Ollie Watkins’ decisive goal highlighted the gulf in quality between the two sides, with Villa’s clinical edge proving too much for a toothless Everton. Moyes will need to work quickly to reinvigorate the Toffees, while Villa’s upward trajectory under Emery continues.
