Thierno Barry stars with two goals and an assist as Everton beat Coventry City

Thierno Barry scored twice and set up another goal as Everton came from behind to beat Coventry City 3-1 in the Premier League on Friday.

The forward’s decisive display rescued the Toffees from a difficult contest at Hill Dickinson Stadium, where Coventry threatened to extend Everton’s recent run of inconsistent results.

Everton had made an excellent start to the season but suffered defeats by Arsenal and Chelsea at the end of last month. In the two games against Newcastle United – one in the league and one in the League Cup – Liverpool resumed where it had left off.

Barry had already scored in both matches, while also providing an assist in the cup. The Frenchman of Guinean origin was therefore the focus of attention against Coventry, with Tyrique George and Tyler Dibling supporting him in attack.

The visitors, who were only recently promoted, looked the more dangerous side during a goalless first half. Coventry, with Milan van Ewijk in the starting line-up, registered twice as many shots on target as the home side but could not find a way through.

That changed after the interval, although it was Coventry who took the lead. Yann Gboho made it 1-0 when he found space amid a scramble in the Everton defence.

Barry responded soon afterwards, heading in an equaliser to bring Everton level. Five minutes later he put the Toffees in front, although the goal came in chaotic circumstances. The ball eventually ended up in the back of the Coventry net, and Everton had their advantage.

Before kick-off, data agency Opta had calculated that only Erling Haaland had created more chances this season than Everton’s forward. Barry had not yet been able to turn that output into a victory, but his double against Coventry moved him to within three goals of Manchester City’s Norwegian striker in the scoring charts.

Haaland has scored nine goals, with Barry now on six.

The Guinean-born forward then underlined his influence 10 minutes before the end by producing a precise pass for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. The midfielder finished with a powerful strike to make it 3-1 and settle the match.

The result lifts Everton into fifth place, level on points with fourth-placed Chelsea. They are also above rivals Liverpool, who play on Sunday.

Coventry remain second from bottom, but are two points clear of Manchester United.