Everton, in splendid form, secured their Premier League survival with three games remaining by narrowly defeating a lacklustre Brentford side.
Sean Dyche’s team received a boost from Luton’s loss against Wolves earlier on Saturday, and this crucial victory at Goodison Park propelled Everton past Brentford into 15th place, providing an 11-point buffer above the relegation zone.
In a surprising turn of events, Idrissa Gueye emerged as the match-winner, unleashing a blistering first-time strike into the top corner in the 60th minute, capitalizing on Brentford’s defensive lapse.
The first half showcased a dearth of quality, with neither side managing to register a shot on target. Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure squandered a golden opportunity with a wayward volley from 10 yards out.
However, the intensity heightened in the second half, with Everton’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford pulling off a splendid save to thwart Ivan Toney, who was making his return to action for Brentford.
On the brink of breaking the deadlock, Everton came agonizingly close when Dwight McNeil’s powerful long-range effort struck the crossbar. Moments later, Gueye’s clinical finish ensured Everton’s retention of their esteemed Premier League status.
