EPL: Grealish Shines as Everton Triumph 2-0 Over Brighton

2-0 Win over Brighton at Hill Dickinson Stadium

Everton's 2-0 win over Brighton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. Jack Grealish's impressive performance and Iliman Ndiaye's historic goal made the difference.

Everton kicked off their Premier League campaign at the Hill Dickinson Stadium with a convincing 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion. The match marked a historic moment for the Toffees, as they celebrated their first-ever competitive match at their stunning new dockside ground. Jack Grealish was instrumental in the win, providing two pinpoint assists that showcased his exceptional skill and vision on the pitch.

Dewsbury-Hall brought fresh energy to the pitch, with Iliman Ndiaye creating Everton's first scoring opportunity. However, he couldn't capitalize on it, failing to beat Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. Kaoru Mitoma had a chance to make a statement with a stunning volley that hit the crossbar, and Danny Welbeck had a promising opportunity, but Yankuba Minteh's pass wasn't quite right.

Everton's fortunes changed when Jack Grealish delivered a precise cross to Iliman Ndiaye, who headed the ball into the net, scoring the first-ever Premier League goal at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. This moment marked a historic occasion for the Toffees, who were eager to make a statement in their new home. Ndiaye's goal not only showcased his skill but also cemented his place in Everton's history books, having scored the last goal at Goodison Park and the first at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

James Garner doubled Everton's lead early in the second half with a powerful shot from distance, courtesy of another assist from Grealish. Despite Brighton's efforts, Everton's defense held strong, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford making a crucial save from Danny Welbeck's penalty kick. The Toffees celebrated their 2-0 win, marking a successful opening match at their new stadium.

 

A fantastic win for Everton in their first match at Hill Dickinson Stadium! 🎊 pic.twitter.com/OM2an5cUW6

— Premier League (@premierleague) August 24, 2025

Jack Grealish's clever move down the left flank ended with a precise cross into the box, where Iliman Ndiaye expertly headed the ball into the net, creating history as the first-ever goal scorer at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium. The stadium erupted in cheers as Ndiaye celebrated his milestone goal.

The match remained intense after the break, with Tim Iroegbunam having a chance to double Everton's lead. Brighton, however, didn't let up and had opportunities to score, including Jan Paul van Hecke's post-hit and Matt O'Reilly's missed chance after a defensive error by James Tarkowski. Despite Brighton's efforts, Everton's defense held strong.

Everton dominated the game in the second half and sealed their victory with a second goal on 52 minutes. James Garner scored with a powerful shot from distance, courtesy of another excellent assist from Jack Grealish. The Toffees' goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, made a crucial save from Danny Welbeck's penalty kick in the 77th minute, ensuring Everton's clean sheet.

Idrissa Gueye's inventive pass sparked a brilliant move that led to Everton's second goal. Jack Grealish expertly controlled the ball on the left flank before laying it back to James Garner, who unleashed a powerful shot that rocketed into Bart Verbruggen's near post. This goal showcased Garner's impressive technique and Everton's attacking prowess.

Brighton intensified their efforts in the final 15 minutes, seeking to salvage a draw. Yankuba Minteh's shot hit Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's hand in the box, prompting a penalty appeal. However, Jordan Pickford made a crucial save, sprawling to his left to deny Danny Welbeck from the spot. This impressive stop marked Pickford's eighth penalty save in the Premier League for Everton, a testament to his exceptional goalkeeping skills.

Everton's 2-0 victory over Brighton marked a significant moment for the Toffees, who produced a display worthy of their new stadium, the Hill Dickinson Stadium. The win not only showcased the team's potential but also highlighted their determination to make a statement this season. With this win, Everton will hope to build momentum and consistency throughout the campaign.

Brighton, on the other hand, struggled to find composure in front of goal, with substitutes Beto and Dwight McNeil coming close to scoring in the final moments. This loss marks a concerning start for the Seagulls, who have now failed to win either of their opening two league fixtures for the first time since 2017. Brighton will need to regroup and reassess their strategy to turn their season around.

As the Premier League season unfolds, Everton will look to maintain their form, while Brighton will aim to bounce back from this setback. The performance of both teams will be closely watched, with fans and pundits alike analyzing their strategies and progress. With 38 matches to play, there's ample opportunity for both teams to turn their season around.