Barry revels in overdue Everton strike

Gareth Barry struck the killer blow as Everton stole all three points at West Brom, but the goal proved thrilling in more ways than one for the midfielder – it was his first strike in more than two-and-a-half years.

The 35-year-old headed in from all of two yards on the hour mark as Everton completed a turnaround victory, securing Ronald Koeman’s first competitive win as Toffees boss.

And for Barry, the man with the most starts in Premier League history with 575, there was a feeling of relief at finding the net at The Hawthorns.

(Photo by Lynne Cameron/Getty Images)

“I’m a very unlikely match-winner because it’s been a long time since I scored!” said Barry, after his 100th Everton appearance.

“It’s nearly two-and-a-half years, and that’s a long run so I was definitely due one. I actually missed one from about half a yard in training yesterday, so I got that one out of the way.

“It was bugging me a little bit. It’s a long time to go without a goal – the longest I’ve ever gone – but to get a winner, it was worth the wait today.

He added: “I’m obviously delighted to get the three points. Every game at the Hawthorns is a tough game, especially when you go a goal down, it generally suits the way they play to get bodies behind the ball and make it tough.

“It was important we got the goal just before half-time, it settled us in the dressing room and we were confident coming out we could get the winner.”