Everton climbed to fifth in the Premier League as Thierno Barry’s early goal secured a 1-0 victory over 10-man Ipswich Town at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Barry scored the decisive goal in the 11th minute, reacting sharply to redirect James Tarkowski’s powerful 35-yard effort beyond Ipswich goalkeeper Christian Walton.
The French striker had an opportunity to double Everton’s advantage later in the match, but his diving header missed the target.
He also headed home from a corner, only for the goal to be ruled out because Brennan Johnson was standing in an offside position and obstructing Walton.
Ipswich created several opportunities to equalise, forcing Jordan Pickford into excellent saves from Emersonn, Abdul Fatawu, Julio Enciso and Abdoul Ouattara.
Emersonn and Leif Davis also failed to hit the target from promising positions.
The visitors’ hopes of mounting a comeback suffered a major blow when Fatawu received a second yellow card for simulation after going down under minimal contact from James Garner.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Ipswich continued searching for an equaliser.
Substitute Zian Flemming fired over during stoppage time, while Issa Diop’s late attempt was blocked by Jarrad Branthwaite and Garner.
The result leaves unbeaten Everton with nine points from five league matches following two victories and three draws.
David Moyes’ side have also progressed to the last 16 of the Carabao Cup, where they will host Newcastle next month.
Barry’s strong start has been particularly important following the deadline-day departures of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City and Beto to Fiorentina.
Everton were unable to sign another striker, leaving Barry as their only recognised senior centre-forward.
The player of the match now has five goals this season, including two in the Premier League and a hat-trick against Preston in the Carabao Cup.
Jack Grealish also made his first league start of the campaign after returning to Everton on another season-long loan from Manchester City.
The winger received a warm reception from the home supporters when he was substituted in the 79th minute.
Everton’s defensive strength was once again evident as they recorded their fifth clean sheet in seven matches across all competitions.
Branthwaite produced another commanding display after being selected for England’s upcoming Nations League fixtures.
Although Ipswich left without a point, manager Gary O’Neil could take encouragement from his team’s performance.
The promoted side tested Pickford repeatedly and continued fighting after Fatawu’s dismissal.
Ipswich head into the international break with six points from their opening five matches, while Everton’s impressive unbeaten start suggests Moyes has the Toffees moving in the right direction.
