Everton advanced to the third round of the Carabao Cup with a commanding 4-0 win against Preston, marked by a hat-trick from Thierno Barry and a debut goal for Brennan Johnson.
Manager David Moyes, returning to his former club, saw Barry's campaign reach four goals in two games. Moyes noted Barry's previous struggles, stating, "He found it really difficult last year which it is for a lot of boys coming in from overseas and it is worse for centre-forwards."
Brennan Johnson, who joined Everton without a transfer fee, also made a significant impact, scoring and assisting in his second appearance. Moyes expressed his pleasure, saying, "That was more like the Brennan Johnson people recognise and hopefully his confidence gets a big lift."
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was pivotal to Barry's treble, with Moyes making only three changes to his squad for the match. Everton will now face Wolves in the third round, the team that eliminated them at this stage last year.