Tempers flare as Everton show bite off the ball in Brighton 'shoving match'

Ashley Young’s late own goal cruelly denied Everton what would have been a valuable three points against Brighton & Hove Albion. The draw extended the Blues’ good run of form, however, and boosted hopes that Sean Dyche may be able to lead his side away from a relegation fight this season.

This was an entertaining match between two contrasting styles of football and after each side had clinched an emphatic win over the other in 2023 already, perhaps there was an inevitability about a draw.

Now the dust has settled on an enthralling game under gloomy skies, driving rain and the lights of Goodison Park, here are some moments of note beyond the headlines.

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Off-the-ball spats unfold in game of bite

Everton capitulated in this fixture last season and the second half January collapse to a rampant Brighton was indicative of the problems facing the dressing room. In that dismal second half just after New Year, Everton offered little fight as the goals kept going in. It was a different story on Saturday and this game had a bit of bite to it.

In total, there were six yellow cards but there could have been more - James Milner somehow escaping punishment after tripping Jack Harrison as he surged beyond him. There were several off-the-ball clashes that caught attention in the stands too.

One followed a poor challenge from Idrissa Gueye on Adam Lallana as Brighton countered in the first half. It came from the move that began with claims for a penalty as Dwight McNeil was brought down in the first half - the VAR deeming contact was outside the box.