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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Tom Cavilla

'Rub that back' - Demarai Gray sends message to Chelsea fans after Ellis Simms goal for Everton

Demarai Gray has expressed his delight at Ellis Simms scoring his first Everton goal - adding that he took great pleasure from celebrating in front of the Chelsea supporters.

Sean Dyche's side twice came from behind to earn a point on their travels, much to the frustration of the home side who were on course for a fourth consecutive victory under the stewardship of Graham Potter.

Abdoulaye Doucoure headed Everton level after Joao Felix's opener, though James Tarkowski soon after conceded a penalty which Kai Havertz converted. Further drama followed late on when Simms coolly slotted past Kepa Arrizabalaga, sending the travelling Blues into raptures at the other end of the pitch.

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Gray was among those who raced over to the scorer of Everton's second and was eager to savour this moment after being taunted by the home fans for much of the match.

Sharing his thoughts on Simms' strike, the former Leicester City winger told Everton FC: "I almost wish it was at the other end so we could celebrate in front of them [away fans] but, at the same time, I was getting a lot of stick from their fans so it was nice to rub that back in their faces!"

On the importance of Saturday's result, Gray continued: "Three points would have been nice, but coming to Chelsea and getting a point was good. It was about Everton and it's an important point before the international break.

"Credit to the fans, they supported us throughout the game and they deserved it. It's a great moment for them. It's our character, mentality and quality. The goal from Ellis is a top goal. He's more of a striker than me and has proved why he came off the bench to make an impact. He has thoroughly deserved that goal, it's a great day for him."

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