A thrilling game at Goodison Park ended with the Potters winning the match dramatically through a late penalty by Marko Arnautovic in injury time.
It was Xherdan Shaqiri who opened the score in the 16th minute, which was neutralized by Lukaku in the 22nd minute itself. Shaqiri’s splendid attempt in the 45th minute was rewarded with a goal due to his astonishing half-volley which looped over Tim Howard.
Lukaku struck again in the 64th minute and Gerard Deulofeu increased Everton’s lead in the 71st minute and held onto the narrow lead until the 80th minute, when Joselu volleyed his first Premier League goal and the match was sealed in favour of the Potters after Arnautovic was brought down by John
Stones and Marko did no mistake in converting the penalty, to seal a special win for Stoke City. This win has helped Stoke to climb to the 8th position in the premier league table, ahead of Everton.
Arnautovic was impressive throughout the match and will be deemed “match winner” by the fans, but Shaqiri’s splendid strike from 18 yards will be a pleasant memory for the Stoke fans and his recent goals augur well for Stoke’s future ambitions.
The ex-Inter Milan and Bayern Munich forward indicates the radical change that Mark Hughes is bringing in the squad. Shaqiri’s stunning goal has drawn the attention of top players.
“That is the best goal I have seen this season,” said Final Score pundit Garth Crooks.
“He knew exactly what he was doing, it is absolutely sublime.”
Mark Hughes made no changes to the squad, which won against Manchester United, less than 48 hours ago and was rewarded by his players.
It was Arnautovic who set up Joselu’s first premier league goal with a clear pass.
In the end, Arnautovic brilliantly completed the penalty foxing Tim Howard to the opposite side to seal the match in favour of the Potters.