It wasn’t a spectacle at Goodison Park as Everton fell to a 2-0 defeat to Man City.
David Moyes would’ve known of the test that faced them when Pep Guardiola’s City came around.
Nico O’Reilly’s late finish and a Mateo Kovacic strike separated the teams, and has disappointingly ended any chance of Everton staying unbeaten in the final few games of Goodison.
Moyes thought he had spotted Guardiola’s weakness, but it turned out to be a day where the Scotsman couldn’t infiltrate their defence.
However, there was a bit of respect between the two fans revolving around Kevin De Bruyne’s recent announcement.
Manchester City fans love what Everton fans did for Kevin De Bruyne in 2-0 loss
It’s a frustrating result after Everton held strong for the majority of the game, but James Tarkowski’s injury seemed to be the difference maker.
Tarkowski going off saw the rare introduction of Michael Keane, who played for the first time since Everton’s 3-2 win vs Tottenham.
But away from the football being played, Everton fans once again showed their class after the recent announcement from De Bruyne.
De Bruyne announced he was leaving City after 10 seasons at the club, as the Belgian maestro will no doubt be converted as a Premier League legend.
Jake O’Brien left De Bruyne stunned, and the midfielder might have also been stunned at Everton fans applauding him after the game, as City fans loved it.
@stubbshenry7 said: “One of the classiest fanbases in the world. Big up the Toffees.”
@Kushagra9320 showed his admiration for the Evertonians, saying: “Nah massive respect to Everton, they recognise greats of the game.”
@moet_rg was impressed, saying: “Fair play Everton!”
“Absolutely class!,” @mancity_girls said.
@City__Mick took a dig at Liverpool, saying: “Class club unlike their neighbours.”
@Mogs_10 summed up the respectful gesture, saying: “Classy fans.”
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The gesture was no doubt heartwarming for De Bruyne, who is appreciated by even rival fans.
But the main takeaway from this is that Goodison once again shows how brilliant a fanbase Everton have.
With now just two games remaining at The Grand Old Lady, Moyes is concerned about Bramley-Moore Dock and will hope the atmosphere emulates Goodison’s famous roar and respect.
It’s excellent to see from the Toffees fanbase, but it might not be the last they see of De Bruyne as he assesses his options.
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