Everton assure survival on tense Thursday in Premier League-Xinhua

Everton assure survival on tense Thursday in Premier League

Source: Xinhua

Editor: huaxia

2022-05-20 11:26:00

LONDON, May 19 (Xinhua) -- Three dramatic games in the Premier League on Thursday night helped resolve one issue ahead of the last matches to be played this Sunday.

Everton's fightback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at home to Crystal Palace means that Frank Lampard's side are now safe from the drop, leaving Leeds United and Burnley to contest the last relegation spot.

Things had looked bleak for Everton when they trailed to a 21st-minute goal from Jean-Philippe Mateta and a second from Jordan Ayew 15 minutes later.

Michael Keane gave Everton a lifeline nine minutes into the second half after being given time to control a knockdown, and Richarlison leveled with 15 minutes to go.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin then sent the home fans wild with a diving header from Seamus Coleman's free-kick with five minutes left to play, sparking jubilant scenes and a pitch invasion that will surely cost Everton a hefty fine.

Burnley moved out of the bottom three on goal difference over Leeds United after a 1-1 draw away to Aston Villa, who had beaten them 3-1 less than two weeks ago.

Ashley Barnes' penalty on the stroke of half-time put Burnley ahead, but Emiliano Buendia leveled for Villa three minutes into the second half.

A win at home to Newcastle United on Sunday will now assure Burnley's top-flight survival.

Finally, Chelsea and Leicester City drew 1-1 with James Maddison putting Leicester ahead in the sixth minute before Marcos Alonso equalized half an hour later.