James Garner and Vitor Pereira in physical confrontation as tempers flare in Wolves vs Everton
James Garner almost came to blows with Wolves boss Vitor Pereira as Everton suffered an early setback at the Molineux Stadium.
Jack Grealish was an early star for the Everton, building on his two assists against Brighton, this time putting the ball on a plate for Beto to head home at the back post on Saturday, 30 August.
However, despite David Moyes dominating away from home, the Old Gold hit back with a goal of their own just 14 minutes later, with Hwang Hee-Chan taking advantage of miscommunication at the back.
While the Toffees would reinstate their lead just after the half-hour mark, players were clearly frustrated with losing their clean sheet at Molineux, and Garner was in no mood, especially.
Emotions bubble over at Molineux Stadium
Pereira was incredibly happy with his players’ tough challenges and ability to win the ball back, stepping out of his managerial area to applaud his team on the pitch.
With one of Moyes’ stars left on the floor at this moment in time, Garner attempted to square up to the Wolves manager, having to be held back by a member of the opposition.
Spotting the incident from inside Molineux, The Athletic’s Patrick Boyland wrote: “Words exchanged between Garner and Pereira near the touchline just now. Pereira and assistants out of the dugout, ramping it all up.”
Supporters will have no issue with their players showing some passion on the pitch, but when someone is at risk of being sanctioned for their actions, it becomes an issue for the opposite manager.
David Moyes’ Everton hit back after Wolves setback
Garner wearing his heart on his sleeve should not be seen as an issue, and with the Toffees amped up after the incident, Grealish, Beto, and Iliman Ndiaye all gelled to take the lead once again.
Despite an opening-day defeat to Leeds United at Elland Road, Moyes’ side have been nearly flawless, progressing in the Carabao Cup against Mansfield Town before slicing through the Seagulls.
With Tyler Dibling now added to the squad and The Friedkin Group showing no signs of slowing down behind the scenes, it is no wonder that supporters are excited for the season ahead.
There was a serious belief last season about the Toffees securing European football, and while they only finished 13th in the Premier League table, it was night and day from the end of Sean Dyche’s reign.