Everton secure survival with thrilling fightback

Calvert-Lewin's winner was met by a pitch invasion last night

- RICHARD JOLLY

Everton

Keane (54), Richarlison (75), Calvert-Lewin (85) - 3

Crystal Palace

Mateta (21), Ayew (36) - 2

"Spirit of the Blues" has been the anthem of Everton's spring and the spirit of the blues saved them. Two goals down at the interval, while Burnley led at Villa Park, and with a final-day date at Arsenal, the Championship seemed to beckon.

Then came a seminal, sensational comeback. First Michael Keane, then Richarlison and then Dominic Calvert-Lewin etched their names in Everton history as the men who averted a first relegation since 1951. A troubled, traumatic season will at least finish with Everton still in the Premier League. A night of changing scorelines and fluctuating emotions ended in euphoria. Everton diced with disaster and saved themselves.

Perhaps Goodison saved them, as they were roared on to victory. It may come with consequences, with a pitch invasion following Calvert-Lewin's goal, even though it came with four minutes of regulation time remaining, and another on the final whistle. Crystal Palace, who outclassed their hosts at times, may wonder how they were beaten but Goodison urged Everton on to victory. Urgency, willpower and unity can feel unstoppable.