A Chaotic Build-Up to a Hard-Fought Win
In what can only be described as a whirlwind 24 hours for Everton, the Toffees secured a 2-0 victory over League One side Peterborough United in the FA Cup third round—just hours after sacking manager Sean Dyche. The match, played at Goodison Park, was overseen by club legends Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman, who stepped in as interim managers following Dyche’s abrupt departure.
Despite the off-field drama, Everton managed to grind out a win, though their performance was far from convincing. Peterborough, sitting mid-table in League One, gave the Premier League side a real scare before Beto’s opener just before halftime and a late Iliman Ndiaye penalty sealed the deal.

Tactical Breakdown: Where Everton Struggled & Shined
Defensive Fragility Exposed Early
Peterborough nearly took a shock lead when a poorly defended corner allowed Cian Hayes a clear chance, only for Jarrad Branthwaite to make a crucial block. Everton’s backline, usually resolute under Dyche, looked shaky—raising questions about how the team will adapt under new leadership.
Beto’s Clinical Finish & Armstrong’s Creativity
The breakthrough came in the 42nd minute when Harrison Armstrong’s pinpoint through ball found Beto, who calmly rounded goalkeeper Nicholas Bilokapic and slotted home. Armstrong was one of the few bright sparks in an otherwise disjointed Everton attack.
Broja’s Injury: Another Blow for Everton
Chelsea loanee Armando Broja, introduced in the second half, lasted just 20 minutes before being stretchered off with an ankle injury. His fitness struggles continue, having made only six appearances since arriving at Goodison.
Ndiaye’s Late Penalty Secures Progress
Deep into stoppage time, Branthwaite won a penalty after being fouled in the box, allowing Ndiaye to convert and ensure Everton’s place in the fourth-round draw.

Post-Match Reactions: Interim Managers & Opponent Insights
Baines: “A Difficult Day, But There’s Hope”
Everton’s joint-interim boss Leighton Baines admitted the day had been challenging but praised the players’ professionalism:
“Losing a manager is never easy, but the lads showed great application. There’s change happening at this club—new ownership, a new stadium—and with that comes opportunity.”
When asked about potential candidates like David Moyes, Baines remained diplomatic, focusing instead on Broja’s injury:
“It looked bad, but he hasn’t been taken to hospital, so hopefully it’s not as serious as first feared.”
Ferguson’s Frustration & Young Subplot
Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson rued missed chances but took pride in his team’s performance:
“We had two big moments at 0-0. If we’d taken one, the atmosphere could’ve turned.”
He also addressed the unusual subplot involving Ashley Young’s son, Tyler, who was on Peterborough’s bench but didn’t feature:
“I had to do what was best for the team. One of Everton’s players had a go at me, which was out of order.”
A touching moment between Ashley Young and his son Tyler post-match.
Key Takeaways & What’s Next for Everton
- Managerial Uncertainty: With Dyche gone, Everton must move quickly to appoint a permanent boss before crucial Premier League fixtures.
- Injury Concerns: Broja’s latest setback adds to Everton’s attacking woes, putting pressure on Beto and Ndiaye to deliver.
- FA Cup Progress: The win keeps Everton in the hunt for silverware, but tougher tests await in the next round.
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