The wildly optimistic Evertonian – if such a being exists – could not have envisaged David Moyes’ side fifth in the Premier League with Thierno Barry just behind Erling Haaland in the goalscoring chart when their transfer window closed in calamitous fashion. Yet there they sit, team and striker defying all expectations, following a stirring comeback against luckless Coventry.
Frank Lampard endured a torturous night against his old club as Coventry impressed but were refused two strong penalty claims. The Coventry manager felt his team were denied a third time by the video assistant referee for an apparent handball by Barry when edging Everton ahead. Replays were inconclusive. It was the dancing French forward’s second goal of the game and 10th in all competitions this season. He also delivered a fine assist for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as the in-form midfielder put his latest England disappointment behind him to seal victory in convincing style.
