Daijiworld Media Network - Liverpool/London

Liverpool/London, Aug 24: Everton christened their new Hill Dickinson Stadium with a commanding 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion, while Nottingham Forest earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace.

At their historic new home, Everton fans witnessed a dream debut for Jack Grealish, who assisted both goals. Iliman Ndiaye opened the scoring with a clinical finish from Grealish’s pinpoint cross, and after the break, James Garner powered home from distance after another sharp setup by the former Manchester City star.

Brighton came close through Kaoru Mitoma and Danny Welbeck, the latter missing a penalty saved brilliantly by Jordan Pickford. The Everton keeper was also sharp in denying Matt O'Riley before halftime.

Grealish exited late to a rousing ovation, becoming only the second Everton player to record two assists on his full Premier League debut for the club.

Over at Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace struck first through Ismaila Sarr in the 37th minute, converting a low cross from Daniel Munoz. Forest responded after the break with Callum Hudson-Odoi smashing home the equaliser from Dan Ndoye’s through ball.

Forest introduced several new signings off the bench and nearly stole the win late on, with Igor Jesus hitting the post and Omari Hutchinson just missing in added time, but both sides settled for a point.