Barry’s hat‑trick fuels Everton’s Carabao Cup push under Moyes

Thierno Barry’s hat‑trick powered Everton’s 4‑0 demolition of Preston North End, while Brennan Johnston added his first goal in blue, giving David Moyes’ Carabao Cup mission a boost as the side cruised into the third round with a clinical performance.

Barry’s hat‑trick marked his first in English football and came just two games into his Everton campaign, which he began after signing in 2025. The forward has already contributed four goals, underscoring Moyes’ knack for extracting output from players with imperfect starts.

Johnston’s debut brightens Everton’s cup run

Brennan Johnston, on loan from Crystal Palace, opened his Everton account with a goal, his first since Wales beat North Macedonia in November. The winger arrived after swapping places with Dwight McNeil and cost Palace £35 million, having failed to score in 26 appearances for his former club. His contribution also included an assist, highlighting his immediate impact.

Kiernan Dewsbury‑Hall was instrumental, delivering the pass that set up Barry’s opener and later providing the low cross for Johnston’s finish. His ferocious shot was parried by Lee Nicholls before rebounding to Barry for the third goal. The midfielder’s work rate continued to underpin Everton’s dominance.

David Moyes, who has overseen more than 1,200 matches, returned to Preston’s Deepdale after 24 years, recalling the stadium’s reconstruction during his earlier spell. “I loved being back,” he said, receiving applause from the home supporters. Moyes noted Barry’s struggle last season, adding that the striker now finds it easier to adapt to English football.

Next round and Preston’s cup history

Everton’s victory sets up a third‑round clash with Wolves, who eliminated them at the same stage last season. Preston, currently a Championship straggler, will miss out on further Carabao Cup progress. The club’s unusual use of Goodison Park for a previous round highlights the logistical challenges they face.

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