Everton bolstered their chances of European qualification as they dispatched Chelsea 3-0 at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Beto was at the double and a magnificent Iliman Ndiaye strike delivered the Toffees a resounding triumph in what was their best performance since moving to their new home on the River Mersey.
To a man, David Moyes’ men were excellent as they moved up to seventh in the Premier League table - and just three points outside the Champions League spots.
Everton vs Chelsea match report
Everton made a bright start and in the 10th minute, Beto robbed Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez of the ball but the visitors managed to scramble clear.
On 14 minutes, the lively Beto pulled a ball into the box that found James Garner, whose goal-bound shot was blocked by Wesley Fofana.
And in the 33rd minute, after Chelsea had a spell on top, Moyes’ men deservedly took the lead. Garner, who earned his maiden England call-up this week, thread a perfect ball into the path of Beto and he applied a composed finish over the onrushing Sanchez.
Chelsea made a decent response and nine minutes before half-time, the ball dropped to Enzo Fernandez from a corner but his half-volley was kept out by a fine save from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Everton continued to have the better of things in the second half and in the 62nd minute, they doubled the advantage. Idrissa Gana Gueye purloined possession and drove at the Chelsea defence before sliding to Beto, whose first-time shot squirmed through Sanchez.
Then, with 14 minutes remaining, the Toffees wrapped up the deserved triumph, with Beto flicking on a long ball for Ndiaye, who burst his way into the box and picked out the top corner.
That had the Evertonians rocking as they savoured a win that might be the best of the season. And if Moyes’ troops continue this level of form in their remaining seven games, they will make a return to Europe next term.
Everton player ratings vs Chelsea.

9. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall -8
Knitted things together in the first half. The same in the second period and almost made it four when he had a late chance saved. Would have enjoyed beating his former club. | Getty Images

10. Iliman Ndiaye - 7
Didn't really hurt Chelsea in the first half but gave them something to think about when on the ball. Started to get more joy as the game opened up in the second half, though, and took his goal brilliantly. | Getty Images

11. Beto - 9
Was lively from the start and composure to break the deadlock was superb. Continued to cause Chelsea issues after the break and got his reward when finding the net for a second time, and won the flick on to assist Ndiaye. Subbed in the 80th minute after an all-action display. | Getty Images

12. Sub 1 - Jarrad Branthwaite - 6
Helped see out the win. | Getty Images


