Despite the controversial dismissal of Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the 10-man Toffees managed to hold on, securing an FA Cup third-round replay with Crystal Palace.
In the 79th minute, Calvert-Lewin received a straight red card following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review initiated by on-field referee Chris Kavanagh and prompted by Michael Salisbury.
The England forward, engaged in a challenge on Nathaniel Clyne, saw his studs up as he slid in for the ball, resulting in minimal contact with the defender’s shin.
As the incident was displayed on the big screen at Selhurst Park, Everton fans voiced their disapproval through boos, and Toffees manager Sean Dyche expressed his discontent with the decision by shaking his head.
Calvert-Lewin, who has not scored in his last 12 matches, had an earlier clear-cut opportunity but could only produce a tame shot that was easily saved by home goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Meanwhile, Jefferson Lerma of Crystal Palace fired just over from 20 yards, yet the Eagles couldn’t capitalize on their numerical advantage.
Everton also encountered what appeared to be a severe setback with winger Dwight McNeil, who had to be stretchered off due to a late-stage leg injury.
Draw a fair result as the two sides have to do it again
In the eighth minute of the nine minutes added on at the end, Eberechi Eze came close to securing the victory for the hosts. However, Everton goalkeeper Joao Virginia made a commendable save, pushing Eze’s strike around the post.
Crystal Palace secured a 3-1 Premier League triumph over Brentford on December 30, breaking an eight-game winless streak.
However, they were without the injured Michael Olise, who had suffered a hamstring injury after scoring twice in that match. Striker Jordan Ayew was also unavailable due to his commitment with the Ghana squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, taking place from January 13 to February 11.
Matheus Franca, the 19-year-old Brazilian winger who joined from Flamengo in August in a £17m deal, potentially rising to £26m, earned his first start.
Positioned on the right wing, Franca showcased one of the first half’s standout moments with a purposeful run, ultimately resulting in a foul by James Tarkowski just outside the penalty area. However, Eze’s subsequent free-kick went over the goal.
In other developments, Jeffrey Schlupp had a low strike saved, and Lerma fired over from 20 yards.
A draw was deemed a just outcome as both teams registered three attempts on target and seven corners each.
Everton, currently without a victory in their last five matches across all competitions, came close as Arnaut Danjuma’s attempt was deflected into the side-netting and he also forced Henderson into a notable save.
Amadou Onana had a headed effort go over the bar from a promising position, but neither side managed to find the net, setting the stage for a rematch at Goodison Park later this month.
Crystal Palace and Everton, positioned 14th and 17th, respectively, in the Premier League table, will both participate in the fourth-round draw scheduled for 19:50 GMT on Monday, January 8, just before Wigan Athletic hosts Manchester United.