Everton’s season got been underway with a 1-0 win over Europa League Third Qualifying Round opponents MFK Ruzomberok at Goodison Park.
It was a frustrating game for the Toffees who were clearly not yet at full competitive readiness, but Leighton Baines eventually broke the deadlock in the second half, registering his and Everton’s first goal of the season with a low deflected strike from 20 yards.
Everton will now head to Slovakia with a one goal lead and without an away goal conceded, thanks to a fantastic save from Maarten Stekelenburg in the second half to deny Ruzomberok an equaliser.
Other debutants Michael Keane, Davy Klaassen and Sandro Ramírez impressed, whilst several youngsters in Ademola Lookman and Dominic Calvert-Lewin got a chance to show what they’re about.
So how did the new boys and old guard do on their first competitive appearance of the season?
Here’s our first player ratings piece of the new season:
