Watkins’ goal sets Moyes on course for defeat on the return leg at Goodison Park

Ollie Watkins broke the deadlock on David Moyes’ return to Everton to give Aston Villa a 51st-minute lead at Goodison Park in the Premier League.

England forward Watkins collected Morgan Rogers’ incisive pass and beat the advancing goalkeeper Jordan Pickford for his ninth goal of the season.

“Isn’t that just Villa at its best?” former Leeds striker Lucy Ward asked on TNT Sports, crediting Ezri Konsa with a “brilliant” role in the move.

“They get up on the field so quickly. Morgan Rogers is on a loose ball – Everton will be disappointed with that – and Watkins creates separation from his marker and rolls it beyond Pickford.”

Wonderful play from Morgan Rogers finds Ollie Watkins to break the Goodison deadlock! 🔥

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— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 15, 2025

Everton v Villa: Watkins scores

Moyes ended an eight-month absence from football to begin his second spell as Toffees boss on Monday, succeeding Sean Dyche after the former Burnley boss was sacked by new owners the Friedkin Group.

Only Southampton have won fewer games and scored fewer goals than Everton this season, who are a point above the relegation zone.

Both sides had chances during a spirited first half, with Jacob Ramsey firing wide when in a good position for Villa.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who was challenged by Moyes to immediately add two goals this season, was a threat for the hosts.

Welcome back to Goodison Park, Davide Moyes 👏

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— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 15, 2025

Watkins remained composed

“That’s what Villa were in the first half – that bit of composure and quality in front of goal,” said Ward.

“Pickford knew he would have to come out and engage, but Watkins kept his composure. To be fair to Pickford, he was completely exposed.”

A third straight win in all competitions will see Villa move above Bournemouth into seventh place, level on points with Manchester City.

Everton have been without a win in their last five Premier League games, failing to score in four of them and losing the previous two.