Everton has been lacking in hope recently, but they found some on Saturday.
After three consecutive defeats, their 2-2 draw against a determined but limited Sheffield United saw them score their first goals of the season and earn their first point.
These were, admittedly, small steps toward something better, a glimpse of a future potentially devoid of the instability that characterized the previous two campaigns.
There are still obvious flaws, but in Beto, their new striker signed on Tuesday for an initial €25 million (£21.5 million, $27 million) from Udinese, the fans have their clearest symbol of hope yet.
There were several encouraging indicators from Bramall Lane’s first appearance for the club, but one lasting impression was the ease with which he exploited his raw physicality to send opposing defenders flying to the turf in challenges. Beto held the ball, linked plays, and ran. He plowed the channels till he collapsed.
Everton fans chanted ‘Beto, Beto’ shortly after the final whistle, a deserved reward for his efforts. The Portuguese were the last to onto the field, and they sang his name as they applauded and gave one young supporter his shirt. He finally made his way towards the tunnel, bare chested, taking in the plaudits from those who had remained behind. So ended his first outing in his new colors.
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