Granit Xhaka scored a late equalizer to deny David Moyes a winning return to Sunderland as Everton salvaged a 1-1 draw in their Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light. The result leaves Everton searching for their first win under Sean Dyche, while Moyes’s first match back in charge of Sunderland ended in frustration.
The match saw Sunderland take the lead through a goal initially credited to Jack Clarke, later confirmed as an own goal by Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite in the 51st minute. The home side, under interim manager Michael Le Bris, dominated large portions of the game, pressing Everton relentlessly and creating several chances.
Everton struggled to gain a foothold, notably in the first half, with Jordan Pickford making a crucial save to deny a strike from Romain Le Fée. Moyes responded with substitutions, bringing on Beto for Barry and later Dwight McNeil for Ndiaye, but the visitors continued to find it difficult to break out of their own half.
Sunderland continued to push for a second, with Adil Aouchiche’s long throw causing panic in the Everton defense, and late substitutes Brian Brobbey and Chemsdine Talbi adding fresh impetus. However, Xhaka struck in the closing stages to secure a point for Everton, heading home from a corner. mukiele had a late chance for Sunderland, heading over from close range.
