Everton manager David Moyes has voiced his pleasure at seeing striker Thierno Barry finally discover his scoring touch in the Premier League, following the forward's crucial equaliser in a 1-1 home draw against Leeds United.
Barry's Remarkable Turnaround in Form
The young French Under-21 international, who managed just a single goal in his first eighteen league appearances for the Toffees, has now netted four times in his last five matches. His latest contribution came during Monday night's encounter at Goodison Park, where he poked the ball past Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow from close range to secure a valuable point for his side.
This strike cancelled out James Justin's opener for the visitors – the defender's first goal since September 2024 – which had given Leeds a deserved half-time lead. Everton players were met with boos as they left the pitch at the interval, but showed significant improvement after the break, with Barry's intervention proving decisive.
Moyes Praises Young Striker's Adaptation
"I'm really pleased for Thierno," Moyes stated in his post-match comments. "There are a lot of strikers in the Premier League who cost a lot of money and it's not easy for them either. Recently we have not been creating that many chances, so he has had to take what he can."
The Everton boss emphasised that Barry's development extends beyond mere goal scoring. "The bigger thing is he is a young French Under-21 international finding his way. His English was OK, not great, and I think he is just beginning to get settled in, learning how the Premier League works, what's expected for the intensity of the league."
Moyes added: "He is getting used to the work levels and coming with that he is getting a few goals as well. We need to try to create some more chances so he can maybe get a few more." This acknowledgement highlights both the player's personal progress and the team's collective responsibility to support their attacking talents.
Farke Content with Away Point
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke expressed satisfaction with earning a point on the road, despite seeing Nottingham Forest and West Ham United gain ground on his team following their weekend victories.
"Overall a really good result for us on the road, especially after an impressive result for Everton last time," Farke remarked, referencing Everton's previous victory over Aston Villa. "The first half was impressive and it was unlucky we couldn't capitalise. We had some great chances and we should have scored."
The German tactician acknowledged Everton's second-half resurgence but felt his team maintained control. "It was clear at some point in the second half they would show up but I got the feeling we were still controlling the game even with less possession. We could have defended a bit sharper but I liked the reaction from the lads in the last 10 minutes."
Focusing on Their Own Performance
When questioned whether results elsewhere in the relegation battle had affected his team's mindset, Farke was unequivocal. "Not at all. We just focused on this game as we can't influence what other teams are doing. It's a long road, 38 games, you have to accept sometimes the teams around you win games."
He concluded: "For us it was important to show another good performance. Slightly disappointed we didn't win all three points because it was a possibility but it was a good result on the road." This pragmatic approach underscores Leeds' determination to concentrate on their own campaign rather than becoming preoccupied with the fortunes of their rivals.
The draw leaves both teams with work to do as the Premier League season progresses, but provides encouraging signs for Everton regarding Thierno Barry's emerging capabilities in front of goal.
