In the final-ever 3pm Premier League kick-off at Goodison Park, Everton let slip a comfortable 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 against Ipswich Town, extending their winless home streak to six matches.
With the clock ticking down on their time at the iconic Goodison Park – this being their second-to-last home fixture – Everton were aiming for a positive end to their season. A match against already-relegated Ipswich Town appeared to be the ideal opportunity to kickstart that ambition. While the Toffees dominated the early exchanges, finding the back of the net proved elusive initially.
The breakthrough finally arrived midway through the first half when a well-delivered cross from Carlos Alcaraz was met by Beto, who powerfully headed the ball home from the far post.
From that point, Everton looked in control and soon doubled their advantage with a stunning second goal. Dwight McNeil cut in from the right flank and unleashed a fierce left-footed strike that nestled into the bottom corner, leaving Ipswich goalkeeper Alex Palmer with no chance.
However, despite their dominance, Everton were pegged back in spectacular fashion. Julio Enciso, known for his penchant for sensational goals, added another contender to his collection with a breathtaking 30-yard strike that soared into the top right-hand corner.
Enciso continued to be a thorn in Everton’s side after the interval, coming close to leveling the score shortly after the restart. He opted to shoot from the edge of the area, perhaps selfishly, with Omari Hutchinson arguably in a better position, and his effort was directed straight at Jordan Pickford.
Hutchinson was instrumental in Ipswich’s eventual equalizer. He skillfully worked his way to the byline and delivered a perfect cross to the back post, where George Hirst headed the ball down and into the bottom corner of Pickford’s goal.
The Goodison Park faithful were left shell-shocked by the turnaround, while the travelling Ipswich supporters must have questioned where this fighting spirit had been in the earlier stages of their disappointing campaign.
Kieran McKenna’s side finished the game on the front foot but couldn’t find a late winner, ultimately settling for a draw – their 15th away point of the season compared to a mere seven at home.
The stalemate does little to aid Everton’s aspirations, and their focus will now shift to their final Goodison Park outing against Southampton in two weeks’ time.
