Jordan Pickford was the Everton hero, as his quadruple save in injury time averted Sean Dyche’s side from losing for the fourth time in a row against Sheffield United.
With few seconds remaining in the game and the scores tied at 2-2, the Blades swung in a corner that was met by Oli McBurnie’s head.
But Pickford wonderfully saved the striker’s powerful header, then went on to save McBurnie’s follow-up attempt and then scramble the ball away from the on-rushing Sheffield United players for a third fantastic save.
The England number one then responded by making a careless expression to the Blades fans while holding the ball.
The goal was the ideal response to his amusing own goal earlier in the game, when Cameron Archer’s shot hit the post, bounced off Pickford’s back, and into the net to give the home team the lead.
Fans praised the Everton goalkeeper on social media, with one stating, ‘Anyone who believes Pickford isn’t any good, give your head a wobble you doughnuts!!’ England is ranked first for a reason!’
Following the saves, another user said, ‘I know he’s got his detractors, but that double save from Pickford there was unbelievable.’
The goal was Everton’s first of the season, and another tweet indicated that performances like today’s from Pickford will protect the club from being demoted, and that the goalie deserves praise at Goodison Park. ‘Pickford is going to pull us through three relegation battles in a row, honestly give him a statue at the new ground,’ he said.
Another writer said Pickford’s saves were already among the greatest of the season, writing, ‘Sensational stuff from Pickford. Early contender for season save(s).’
Pickford said after the draw, which gave the Toffees their first point of the season, that he was pleased with the result but that his team still has opportunity to improve.
‘I believe there are many pros, but there are also a few negatives.’ Pickford explained.
‘When you’re 1-0 up you’re in charge but then they go and score two. That is why the Premier League is regarded as the greatest in the world. Any team cannot be taken for granted. They then got lucky with the second goal, which bounced off me.
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