Thierno Barry winner gives Everton 1-0 victory at Newcastle

Thierno Barry scored the only goal as Everton beat Newcastle United 1-0 at St James' Park on Monday, securing their first Premier League victory since September. BBC Sport reported that Barry's second-half finish was his eighth goal in 12 appearances across all competitions this season, matching the total he managed in 41 games during his debut campaign at the club.

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The breakthrough arrived in the 49th minute after Tyrique George advanced into the penalty area without being tracked. His low effort slipped underneath Newcastle goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, leaving Barry to finish from close range. The striker had also scored against Newcastle five days earlier in Everton's 3-1 Carabao Cup victory, making this another decisive contribution against the same opponents within a week.

Everton threatened to extend their lead when Jarrad Branthwaite's header drew a save from Hornicek midway through the second half. They also appealed for a late penalty after Fabian Schar appeared to catch Barry while attempting to clear the ball, but the video assistant referee supported John Brooks' decision not to award a spot-kick. Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle separately disputed the winning goal, telling BBC Sport he believed Schar had been fouled in the build-up.

Newcastle's clearest opportunity to equalise came in the 66th minute. Anthony Elanga connected with a Harvey Barnes cross, but Jordan Pickford and the post combined to stop his shot before the ball briefly ran along the goal line. Pickford then used his feet to deny substitute Yoane Wissa in the 90th minute, preserving Everton's advantage as the hosts searched for a late response.

The home side finished with 10 players after Jacob Ramsey was dismissed in the 98th minute. He received a second booking for a challenge that caught Harrison Armstrong above the ankle, only 84 seconds after his first yellow card. Everton held on to complete the league win following their cup success over Newcastle.

Barry's scoring run comes with additional responsibility following Beto's move to Fiorentina, which left him as Everton's only recognised senior striker. Speaking to Sky Sports in comments carried by the BBC, the 24-year-old credited his summer work for his improvement and said he was pleased to contribute goals while enjoying his football more than last season.