Crystal Palace and Everton shared the spoils in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park, with Jean-Philippe Mateta's 77th-minute equalizer rescuing the hosts from defeat.
Crystal Palace welcomed Everton to south London seeking to climb away from mid-table mediocrity. The Eagles sat 15th with 43 points from 34 games, while the Toffees occupied 10th place with 48 points from 35 matches. Both teams needed positive results to finish their seasons strongly.
Everton made a stunning start. James Tarkowski opened the scoring in just the sixth minute, giving the visitors an early lead. The Everton defender's goal set the tone for an entertaining first half packed with chances and intensity.
Palace responded well and found their rhythm as the half progressed. Ismaïla Sarr leveled matters in the 34th minute with a clinical finish. The winger's goal sparked belief among the home crowd and set up a fascinating contest.
Everton's James Garner received a yellow card in the 30th minute for a reckless challenge. Palace's defensive discipline was tested throughout, with Vitaliy Mykolenko also booked before halftime. The intensity continued to build as both sides created chances.
The second half began with Everton immediately on the front foot. Beto restored the visitors' lead in the 47th minute with a well-taken goal. The striker's finish suggested Everton would control the remainder of the match.
However, Palace refused to surrender. The home side pressed forward with renewed urgency, searching for an equalizer. Their dominance in possession increased as Everton retreated into a defensive shape.
The breakthrough came in the 77th minute when Mateta fired home to level the score at 2-2. The Palace forward's goal sparked wild celebrations and set up a tense finale. Both teams pushed for a winner but neither could find the decisive moment.
Palace controlled the match statistically, enjoying 59% possession and creating chances throughout. The Eagles recorded eight shots on target compared to Everton's six. Expected goals favored Palace at 2.66 to Everton's 1.44, reflecting their attacking threat.
Jordan Pickford proved crucial for Everton, making six saves to keep his team in the contest. Daniel Muñoz impressed for Palace with six tackles and four key passes. Tarkowski's contribution extended beyond his goal, providing an assist during the match.
The draw leaves Palace 15th with 44 points from 35 matches, while Everton remains 10th with 49 points from 36 games. Both teams will reflect on missed opportunities in what proved to be an entertaining Premier League encounter.
