Everton's Super-Sub Thierno Barry Seals Dramatic Victory Over Newcastle
In a thrilling Premier League encounter at St James' Park, Everton secured a dramatic 3-2 win against Newcastle, with substitute Thierno Barry scoring a last-minute winner. The match, played on Saturday 28 February 2026, saw Newcastle's home woes deepen as they suffered a third consecutive league defeat.
Late Drama Unfolds at St James' Park
Thierno Barry, coming off the bench, struck just seconds after fellow substitute Jacob Murphy had seemingly earned Newcastle a draw. Barry's goal, assisted by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, handed Everton all three points in a madcap conclusion to the game. Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a stunning late save to deny Sandro Tonali and seal the victory for the visitors.
Everton took an early lead when Jarrad Branthwaite headed home from a James Garner corner in the 20th minute. Newcastle equalised before halftime through Jacob Ramsey, whose shot deflected off Branthwaite and looped over Pickford. However, Everton regained the lead just two minutes later when Beto capitalised on a Nick Pope error, pouncing on a fumbled Dwight McNeil shot.
Newcastle's Struggles Continue
Newcastle, managed by Eddie Howe, have now won only one of their last seven league fixtures, leaving them in the lower half of the table. This defeat adds to previous home losses against Aston Villa and Brentford, compounding their difficulties ahead of a challenging March schedule across three competitions.
In contrast, Everton's committed display propelled them into eighth place in the Premier League, reaching 40 points and closing within five points of the top six. The Toffees started confidently, pinning Newcastle back and creating early chances, with Iliman Ndiaye testing from distance before Branthwaite's opener.
Key Moments and Substitutions
Newcastle attempted to rally in the second half, with Howe making tactical changes, including pushing Nick Woltemade forward and moving Anthony Gordon to the left. Substitutes Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy were introduced in search of inspiration, with Murphy's fine volley levelling the score with eight minutes remaining.
However, Barry's immediate response restored Everton's lead after Gordon lost possession. Earlier in the match, Beto had missed a golden opportunity to extend Everton's advantage, firing against the crossbar when one-on-one with Pope. Pickford's crucial saves, including tipping Tonali's volley onto the bar, were instrumental in securing the win.
The result highlights Everton's resilience and Newcastle's ongoing issues at home, setting the stage for both teams' upcoming fixtures in a competitive Premier League season.
