Everton’s relegation fears were eased as they resolved to come from behind twice to secure a point at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, 18th Match 2023. The Toffees, who are just three points above the drop zone, put in a gutsy performance to deny Chelsea a fourth consecutive win in all competitions and were rewarded for their efforts in the 89th minute when Ellis Simms scored his first goal for the club.
The Blues had taken the lead after the break when Joao Felix’s shot found the bottom corner, with the hosts looking comfortable in their lead. But Everton had other ideas and leveled with 20 minutes remaining when Abdoulaye Doucoure glanced a header just over the line.
Chelsea then regained the lead with seven minutes to go when Reece James was felled in the box, and Kai Havertz converted the resulting penalty, but the Blues could not hang on to their lead as Simms came to the rescue. The 18-year-old forward burst past Kalidou Koulibaly before seeing his shot squirm past Kepa Arrizabalaga, sending the away fans into raptures.
The result was a huge boost for Everton, who had won only one game out of five. It was a much-needed reminder of the Toffees’ capabilities, who have been in a precarious position in the Premier League table for some time. For Chelsea, it was a case of two points dropped as they failed to make it four wins on the bounce.
The Blues remain in tenth place, but their chances of qualifying for the European competitions remain balanced. It was a game of two halves at Stamford Bridge, with Everton showing great determination to get something from the game. The result was a huge confidence boost for the Toffees, who will now be looking to distance themselves from the relegation zone.