Dominic Calvert-Lewin seized upon an error by Arijanet Muric to notch his second goal in consecutive games, propelling Everton to a vital victory over fellow strugglers Burnley at Goodison Park.
The unfortunate goal secured the Toffees their first Premier League win in 14 matches, breaking a streak that had persisted since their 2-0 triumph over Burnley at Turf Moor on December 16.
Calvert-Lewin, who ended a goal drought of 23 games with a strike in Tuesday’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle, broke the deadlock at the conclusion of a lackluster first half. Muric’s attempted clearance ricocheted off the Everton forward, looping over the Burnley goalkeeper and finding the net unguarded.
Early in the second half, the striker had an opportunity to extend the hosts’ lead but directed his shot straight at Muric after outmaneuvering Dara O’Shea in the penalty area.
Burnley’s hopes of mounting a comeback suffered a setback when O’Shea lost possession near the halfway line and subsequently fouled Dwight McNeil, resulting in a straight red card for the defender.
In a tense finale, Josh Brownhill’s curling effort narrowly missed the far post, but Everton held firm to secure three crucial points in their battle to avoid relegation.