Andre Gomes’ impressive free-kick secured a victory for Everton over Crystal Palace in their FA Cup third-round replay, setting up a match against Luton Town in the next round.
Gomes opened the scoring for the home team at Goodison Park, curling a superb free-kick into the top corner from 25 yards in the 42nd minute. This moment of quality stood out in a match with limited opportunities, allowing Everton to secure their first win since December 16.
The fixture occurred two days after Everton was charged with breaching the Premier League’s financial rules for the second time this season. Before the game, fans displayed a banner that read “onwards Evertonians, we shall not be moved.”
Andre Gomes, making only his second start for Everton since May 2022, impressed with a textbook set-piece goal. The midfielder, who spent the previous season on loan at Lille and suffered a calf injury, showcased his skills at Goodison Park.
Despite Everton’s dominance in the first half, with chances from Dominic Calvert-Lewin saved by Crystal Palace keeper Sam Johnstone, the hosts clung to their narrow lead. The victory sets up a clash against Luton at home in the next round, with Everton aiming to reach the FA Cup fifth round for the third consecutive season.
However, Everton might be without Abdoulaye Doucoure and Seamus Coleman for the upcoming fixture, as manager Sean Dyche mentioned both were absent from the match due to “minor hamstring issues,” and their return dates are uncertain.
