Thierno Barry's First Everton Hat-Trick Sends Toffees Past Preston 4-0

Everton cruised into the third round of the Carabao Cup with a comprehensive 4-0 win over Preston North End at Deepdale, with striker Thierno Barry scoring his first hat-trick for the club and adding an assist for good measure.

Barry, who opened his account for the season in Saturday's Premier League win over Crystal Palace, wasted no time adding to his tally, opening the scoring before doubling Everton's lead in the first half. He completed his hat-trick after the break, capping a man-of-the-match display with eight goals in 41 games during the 2025/26 season already halfway matched in just his first few matches of the new campaign. The French forward's afternoon wasn't done there, as he turned provider for a fourth goal, teeing up new signing Brennan Johnson to net his first goal in 35 games, a welcome return to form for the Wales international.

Preston, who have lost their opening two Championship fixtures this season, offered little going forward beyond a smart overhead kick from substitute Callum Lang that was well saved by Jordan Pickford, with Everton dominant and in control throughout.

The win extends what looks to be a breakthrough run of form for Barry, who had endured a difficult adjustment period to English football since his big-money move from Villarreal. Manager David Moyes, back at the club where he made his name as both player and manager, will take real encouragement from the growing understanding between Barry and his new teammates. Everton, who have not progressed beyond the third round of the Carabao Cup since 2023/24, have been drawn to face Wolves in the next round as they look to build on a promising start to the season.