Everton Make Winning Start With Palace Shutout

Everton began their 2026-27 season in assured fashion, breaking the deadlock in the first half to put Crystal Palace under immediate pressure. The home side controlled possession in the opening stages and made their dominance count when the ball found the net, giving the Merseysiders a commanding platform from which to work. Palace offered resistance but struggled to find any meaningful way through Everton's rearguard as the first half unfolded.

The home side extended their lead before the interval, doubling their advantage and effectively settling the contest before half-time. Everton's second goal capped a strong opening 45 minutes and left Palace with a mountain to climb in the second half. The visitors had offered little going forward, and their task grew considerably heavier with two goals already against them.

Palace emerged with greater intent after the restart and pressed higher up the pitch, but Everton's defence remained resolute throughout. The away side created few clear openings and never seriously threatened to get back into the match. Despite sustained pressure in moments, the Merseysiders rarely looked in danger of surrendering their advantage.

The match settled into a pattern of Everton controlling the tempo while Palace sought an opening that never materialised. Everton's midfield dictated proceedings and prevented the visitors from building any rhythm in their attacking play. Both teams managed the closing stages without serious incident, with the home side comfortable in seeing out the victory.

This win sends Everton into their first international break of the season with momentum and confidence. A clean sheet and two goals scored represent a positive opening statement ahead of next week's fixtures. For Palace, the task now becomes to bounce back quickly and avoid their campaign stalling before it has truly begun.