In a familiar scenario this season, Everton let a 2-0 lead slip away against Ipswich Town at Goodison Park on Saturday. Beto’s header and McNeil’s goal initially put David Moyes’ side ahead, but Ipswich fought back with goals from Julio Enciso and George Hirst, resulting in a disappointing draw for the home team.
Dwight McNeil said: “I think we were in control right from the start, 2-0 up at home, that’s the place we wanted to be, and then they scored just before half-time, and we knew the start of the second half was going to be tricky, but I thought we controlled the game really well. So, it’s going to be a tough one to take because we wanted to finish the season on a strong note, especially at home.”
McNeil continued: “When I’m that far out, it’s all about technique and connecting right. That’s what I wanted to do with the ball, get the movement, and it’d have a chance of going in. Luckily it went in for me.”
Reflecting on his injury, McNeil admitted: “It’s my first [long-term] injury and it’s been so frustrating. It was just nice to be back out there with the lads, but it’s going to be a tough one for me as well, because I want to win, I want to help the team win, and like I say, we were in the best position to do that, and again we conceded two goals, and we got punished.”
Everton’s draw against Ipswich highlights the ongoing challenges the team faces in maintaining leads, a recurring issue throughout the season. Despite a strong start, the Blues were unable to secure the victory, leaving McNeil and his teammates to ponder what might have been. The upcoming fixture against Southampton at Goodison Park now takes on added significance as the team seeks to close out their time at the historic ground on a high note.
The match against Southampton will be a poignant occasion, marking one of the final games at Goodison Park before Everton’s move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. McNeil emphasized the importance of securing a win in this historic fixture, underscoring the team’s desire to leave their iconic home with a victory.
