UPDATE: In a dramatic clash, Everton’s hopes for a win were dashed as both Michael Keane and Jack Grealish were sent off during a tense 1-1 draw against Wolves at Hill Dickinson Stadium earlier today. The controversial red cards have left fans and officials reeling, highlighting the precarious position of the Toffees in the Premier League.
Michael Keane, who scored Everton’s only goal, was shown a red card for pulling the hair of Tolu Arokodare in an aerial duel. This incident occurred just after his 17th-minute goal, which made him the club’s joint-second highest scorer this season. However, it was Jack Grealish‘s second yellow card for sarcastically applauding referee Tom Kirk that truly infuriated Everton supporters, marking his first Premier League dismissal.
Despite taking the lead, Everton struggled to maintain control and allowed Matheus Mane to score for Wolves, showcasing a resilient performance from the visitors. Wolves have now secured five points from their last three matches, a notable turnaround after enduring 11 straight league defeats. However, they remain 14 points away from safety.
For Everton, the stakes are incredibly high. With only one victory in their last six matches and just two wins in seven at their new home, their hopes of European qualification have been severely hindered. A win today would have brought them within four points of the top four, but their negative goal difference—only 23 goals scored in 21 matches—is a glaring issue.
Manager David Moyes has hinted that new signings in the January transfer window are unlikely. However, with survival no longer a pressing concern, the possibility of competing for European spots may force a change in strategy. The absence of Keane for three matches and Grealish for one will further stretch an already thin squad, especially with key players like Idrissa Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye still away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The situation has become dire enough that Everton recalled Harrison Armstrong, an 18-year-old academy graduate, from Preston, giving him his first Premier League start. Everton did manage to score from a set-piece, with Dwight McNeil‘s free-kick leading to Keane’s goal, but they failed to capitalize on their chances.
After the break, Wolves adjusted their strategy, quickly equalizing through Mane, who scored with a well-placed shot after a swift counter-attack. Everton’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, made a stunning save in the dying moments, preserving a point for the Toffees but leaving the team and fans disappointed.
As Everton faces mounting pressure and injuries, the upcoming matches will be crucial. They must regroup quickly to avoid further decline in the league standings. The immediate future looks uncertain, but fans remain hopeful for a turnaround as the season progresses.
