Everton began life at their stunning new Hill Dickinson Stadium with a memorable first Premier League win of the season, beating Brighton 2–0.
Jack Grealish, making his first start since joining on loan from Manchester City, was the star of the show. His driven cross was turned in by Iliman Ndiaye after 23 minutes, earning the forward the distinction of scoring Everton’s final goal at Goodison Park and their first in their new home.
Seven minutes after the restart, Grealish’s clever pass found James Garner, who rifled home a thunderous 25-yard strike to double the lead.
Brighton had their chances but paid dearly for missed opportunities. Danny Welbeck squandered from close range, Kaoru Mitoma and Jan Paul van Hecke both hit the woodwork, and Welbeck later saw a penalty saved by Jordan Pickford, who dived superbly to his left.
For David Moyes’ side, the result capped a historic day. The new ground on the banks of the River Mersey was filled with noise and colour as fans celebrated a fresh era and Grealish’s revival as a key attacking spark.
Pickford’s late heroics sealed the points, ensuring Everton could crown their new chapter with victory.
Brighton, meanwhile, will rue their profligacy and must regroup quickly before facing Manchester City next weekend.
