Everton see off Ipswich with Barry winner despite VAR row

Everton made it through a tough test without losing their unbeaten momentum, reaching the international break in form after beating Ipswich thanks to an early Thierno Barry strike.

Barry’s quick start

The match was decided by a moment of sharp execution. Barry scored in the 11th minute for his fifth goal of the campaign, reacting best after James Tarkowski’s 25-yard shot was only partly covered. The forward redirected the ball with his chest to wrong-foot Christian Walton.

But VAR controversy kept the spotlight on the game. A later goal involving Brennan Johnson was ruled out because he was judged to have interfered with the goalkeeper’s ability to save. Everton boss David Moyes questioned the conclusion, saying: “They said it affected his ability to save it which I don’t think was the case… Do I think we will get consistency from that decision through all the season… I’ll be doubtful of that.” According to The Guardian, Moyes also acknowledged Johnson was offside while asking whether the keeper would ever have saved it anyway.

Red card turns up pressure

Everton’s edge came moments later when Ipswich were reduced further. Abdul Fatawu received a second yellow for simulation, leaving Ipswich with 10 men. Everton still didn’t fully control the game, and while they created chances—21 in total—they only managed two on target, turning the finish into a nervy affair.

After a brief spell of pressure from Ipswich, Everton struck again. Barry met Dewsbury-Hall’s corner in the second half, heading into the far corner with Walton beaten.

Even so, The Guardian reports that VAR spared Moyes and the home crowd from a second major swing, and Everton ultimately held their nerve to lock in the win and move up to fifth with an unbeaten start and five clean sheets from seven. The Guardian.