Onana Saves Everton: Recap Everton vs. Crystal Palace

 Onana Saves Everton: Recap Everton vs. Crystal Palace

Amadou Onana of Everton scores their first goal during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Crystal Palace at Goodison Park on February 19, 2024 in Liverpool, England(Image-Getty)

Everton's ascent out of the relegation zone materialized after Amadou Onana's decisive header salvaged a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace at Goodison Park.

In the backdrop of Roy Hodgson's departure as manager, Crystal Palace debuted under new leadership. Jordan Ayew initiated the scoring with a remarkable goal, only for Onana's timely substitution to tip the scales in Everton's favor, marking their first Premier League win in eight matches.

The match narrative unfolded amidst Everton's reintroduction of midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure and Palace's strategic alterations, with Sam Johnstone assuming goalkeeping duties, Joel Ward anchoring the defense, and Odsonne Edouard spearheading the attack.

Under the gaze of newly appointed manager Oliver Glasner and chairman Steve Parish, Palace commenced with confidence. Despite Edouard's early attempt and Everton's response through Doucoure and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Palace nearly broke the deadlock as Jean-Philippe Mateta's header was thwarted by Ashley Young.

The second half witnessed Everton's struggle for momentum until a sequence led by James Garner culminated in a wayward strike. Everton's offensive surge met resistance from Johnstone, denying James Tarkowski and Doucoure. Yet, Johnstone played a pivotal role in Palace's breakthrough, initiating Ayew's superb strike following Edouard's flick.

Undeterred, Everton pressed for parity, with Johnstone thwarting Garner's effort before Onana capitalized on Dwight McNeil's delivery, nodding home the equalizer.

The hard-fought draw elevated Everton to 17th place, edging past Luton Town on goal difference. Meanwhile, Palace maintained their 15th position in the standings.

Noteworthy statistics underscored Everton's proficiency from corners, tallying 10 goals, second only to Arsenal. Conversely, Palace grappled with defensive woes, enduring a 14-match Premier League streak without a clean sheet.

Onana's pivotal contributions underscored Everton's reliance on set-pieces, with all three of his Premier League goals originating from headers off corners, notably assisted by Dwight McNeil.