Mueez Ajao
– For coach Frank Lampard, there is no baptism of fire at Everton.
– Rather, his a baptism of victory.
– The Everton’s new manager made the perfect start as Brentford were well beaten in the FA Cup fourth round at Goodison Park.
– Lampard, who succeeded the unpopular Rafael Benitez on Monday, was afforded a rapturous welcome before kick-off and Everton made it a winning opening with a convincing and confident performance.
– Everton led after 31 minutes – the first time they have gone ahead in a game since 23 October – when substitute Yerry Mina, on for the injured Ben Godfrey, powered home Demarai Gray’s corner.
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– The excellent Richarlison doubled Everton’s advantage three minutes after the interval when he lofted Allan’s inviting pass over the onrushing Brentford keeper David Raya.
– Ivan Toney quickly pulled one back for the Bees from the penalty spot after he was brought down by Jordan Pickford, but Everton responded to kill off any hopes of a comeback.
– Mina’s presence was once again a significant factor as another Gray corner arrived at the far post for Mason Holgate to score just after the hour.
– Andros Townsend drilled home the fourth in stoppage time to give Lampard the victory he would have been desperate to secure.
