Neto's Brilliance Secures Chelsea's Victory Over Everton

Pedro Neto shone brightly for Chelsea, scoring twice in the second half to secure a crucial away victory over Everton on Saturday. His first goal came just 43 seconds after the restart, with his second arriving in the dying moments of the match, spoiling Everton's unbeaten run and giving the Blues their first clean sheet of the season. Let’s dive into the player ratings from this exciting clash. Jordan Pickford had a game to forget, as he might rue not saving Neto’s opening goal. Despite that, he made some vital saves to keep Everton in the contest, earning a 5. Ainsley Maitland-Niles faced a tough afternoon at right-back, as Chelsea's goal originated from his flank. His overall performance was rather subdued, also rated at 5. James Tarkowski stood firm in defense, playing a significant role in the physical tussle between the two sides, which earned him a solid 6. Jarrad Branthwaite, recently called up to the England squad, made several crucial tackles and blocks, also receiving a 6 for his efforts. Vitali Mykolenko had a positive return, creating a late first-half chance for Barry with a fantastic cross, which contributed to his score of 6. Harrison Armstrong made an impact with a fierce challenge that riled the crowd and later cleared a shot off the line, earning him a 7 for his spirited display. James Garner's set-piece deliveries were below par, but he made his mark defensively, giving him a rating of 6. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall found it challenging to create opportunities but did manage a dangerous cross that led to a chance for Grealish, also rated at 6. Merlin Rohl, a surprise starter, defended well and posed a threat going forward, earning a commendable 7. Jack Grealish started quietly but ultimately created Everton's best opportunity with a lovely cross, resulting in a score of 6. Thierno Barry had a frustrating day, missing a header in the first half and firing another chance directly at the goalkeeper, which led to a rating of 5. Christian Norgaard made his Premier League debut for Everton but struggled to find his rhythm, giving the ball away early and finishing with a 4 after a needless foul. Brennan Johnson, Tyrique George, and other substitutes were not rated after their late-game appearances. On the Chelsea side, Emiliano Martinez had a mixed performance. He was fortunate not to be penalized for taking too long on a goal-kick and later suffered a concerning injury, leading to a rating of 6. Josh Acheampong posed a threat going forward but received a booking for a late challenge, also rated at 6. Maxence Lacroix delivered one of his best performances in a Chelsea shirt, helping to keep Everton at bay and earning a well-deserved 7. Levi Colwill had a quiet game defensively but maintained composure, finishing with a score of 6. Pedro Neto was the star of the show, scoring twice and being heavily involved in Chelsea's attacking play, which granted him an impressive 8. Jordan Henderson was influential all over the pitch, with strong set-piece deliveries and a blocked shot, earning a 7. Moises Caicedo thrived in midfield, almost scoring with a volley that hit the bar, also rated at 7. Jorrel Hato, Chelsea's only change from last week, assisted Neto’s first goal and was composed throughout, securing a 7. Cole Palmer had a quieter game than usual but still managed to create a few chances, finishing with a score of 6. Morgan Rogers, the club-record signing, displayed his competitive spirit and contributed to Chelsea's goal, also rated at 7. Joao Pedro had an underwhelming match, squandering a chance late on and receiving a 5. Mike Penders made his Premier League debut under tough circumstances, coming on for Martinez. He showed promise despite a shaky moment, earning a 6. With the player rating window closing soon after the match, fans have the chance to weigh in on their own assessments. Remember, your votes will contribute to the average displayed by BBC Sport users.