Everton and Newcastle United once again played out an entertaining and dramatic affair last night, even if the full-time score settled at an amicable 0-0.
However, such a clash was always going to be marred by some theatrics, with VAR taking centre stage as it so often does on this occasion.
First handing the visitors a chance to take the lead from the spot on the half-hour mark, Goodison Park delighted in watching Anthony Gordon fluff his lines and feather a weak penalty straight at Jordan Pickford.
Then, the real controversy emerged when Dominic Calvert-Lewin was bundled over in the second half, yet saw his penalty protestations waved away by Craig Pawson and those at Stockley Park.
Seamus Coleman even confronted the referee at full-time to emphasise how questionable a performance he endured.
Naturally, despite all the furore that these decisions caused, there were a few Everton players who shone through.
Jordan Pickford will steal headlines for Everton penalty save
And, of course, penalty hero Pickford sits atop that list.
The former Sunderland man, who has a well-documented acrimonious history with the Toon Army, will have absolutely loved saving from the spot last night.
After all, not only did it deny Gordon his first goal against Everton since his 2023 departure, but it also saw two points stolen from the side that are so quick to point out his flaws.
This was not the only interaction of his night either, making a further two saves, punching two crosses and claiming another amongst a sea of bodies.
It was a complete performance from the shot-stopper, who certainly had to work to earn his first clean sheet of the Premier League season.
However, he was not alone in earning that accolade.
Michael Keane proved the doubters wrong vs Newcastle United
And, ironically enough, it was Michael Keane who arguably stood alongside him as the standout that night.
The centre-back, who has often been a lightning rod for criticism during his stint at Goodison Park, was confident and assured all night under a floodlit Goodison Park.
Often lambasted for his lack of agility and confidence, the way Everton set up allowed him to play to his strengths for a strong 90 minutes, where he managed to make eight clearances and a further three interceptions too.
Only James Tarkowski beside him made more clearances all match.
Keane would combine such solidity with proficiency in possession too, maintaining a 91% pass accuracy from the 45 touches of the ball he enjoyed, via Sofascore.
Confident out from the back, and assured when called upon to defend, it was so refreshing to see a player so often criticised enjoy a standout match.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
