Evertons defeats Aston Villa 2-0 in Goodison training match

Everton warmed up for their return to Premier League play on Wednesday by defeating Aston Villa 2-0 in a closed-door training session at Goodison Park.

Early goals from Anthony Gordon and Neal Maupay proved decisive in a superb performance from Frank Lampard’s team, with Jordan Pickford making two excellent stops before the break.

On eight minutes, Nathan Patterson was sent down the right flank and squared inside to Gordon, who took a touch before placing a precise finish into the bottom right-hand corner.

⚽️ | We warmed up for our return to #PL action with a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa in a behind-closed-doors training match at Goodison this afternoon.

— Everton (@Everton) December 21, 2022

Five minutes later, the advantage was extended when Demarai Gray’s corner was cleared, Alex Iwobi delivered a backheel to throw the ball back into the danger zone, and Maupay headed home from close range.

Pickford, fresh from his outstanding performances for England at the World Cup in Qatar, then made a wonderful save to deny Ludwig Augustinsson’s goalbound drive, which was immediately followed by a James Tarkowski block from John McGinn – and also stopped Boubacar Kamara at the conclusion of the first half.

🏟️ | Want to help shape the matchday experience at @everton's new home?

Find out how to get involved ➡️ https://t.co/BslezieyHW pic.twitter.com/Bgqbtu68kD

— Everton Stadium (@EvertonStadium) December 21, 2022

In the second half, Gordon came near and Tarkowski headed a corner into the roof of the net, while Lampard was allowed to play the rest of his team.

Following fine work down the left by Dwight McNeil, Stanley Mills had a shot blocked on the line late in the game.

Everton return to competitive action on Boxing Day when Wolverhampton Wanderers visit Goodison Park.