Pickford’s Incredible Save Highlights Remarkable Resilience on the Road

Everton produced a dramatic 3-2 victory at St James’s Park on 28 February 2026. The Blues led three times and held out late. Pickford’s incredible save underlined their remarkable resilience on the road.

Team news and selection

David Moyes made several changes to his starting XI. Dwight McNeil, Beto, Jake O’Brien and Vitalii Mykolenko returned to the side.

McNeil made his first start since the 26 January draw with Leeds. Jake O’Brien was available after a one-match suspension.

First-half action

Jarrad Branthwaite opened the scoring with a glancing header from a corner. The goal arrived after Everton worked a set-piece routine.

Newcastle replied when a Ramsey snapshot took a deflection and looped over Jordan Pickford. Everton regained the lead when Beto finished from a parry.

Second-half drama

Newcastle pressed for an equaliser after the break. Joelinton set up Jacob Barnes for a volley that deflected off Gana Gueye to level the game.

Shortly after the leveller, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall broke into the box and delivered a low cross. Thierno Barry bundled the ball over the line to restore Everton’s lead.

Late drama and decisive moments

The match entered extensive added time amid frantic late action. Sandro Tonali smashed a volley that threatened to change the result.

Pickford produced a top-class reaction save to keep the ball out. VAR reviewed a potential handball on James Tarkowski but no penalty was awarded.

Key facts

• Score: Newcastle United 2–3 Everton.
• Date: 28 February 2026.
• Venue: St James’s Park.
• Notable: Pickford superb late save; Barry’s winning touch came from close range.

Starting lineups

The win was a statement on the road for Everton. The result kept their momentum and raised hopes for the coming fixtures.