Newcastle United's Carabao Cup campaign ended with a 3-1 defeat at Goodison Park, dashing their hopes of reclaiming the trophy they won in 2025. The loss also mathematically ended their chance of a fifth consecutive top-eight finish in the competition, a run that had defined their recent cup history.

Everton took control with James Garner scoring his first goal since January in the 34th minute. Hayden Hackney, who also provided the assist for the opener, doubled the lead just before half-time. Thierno Barry added a third in the 69th minute, his seventh goal in 11 appearances this season.

Newcastle, who sit eighth in the Premier League with 11 points from eight games, struggled to create clear chances. Jordan Pickford made several saves, including a key stop from a Harvey Barnes header, while Vitalii Mykolenko produced a huge block to deny Jacob Ramsey. Substitute Yoane Wissa almost got through on goal shortly after the break, but the visitors' pressure told only late on.

Dan Burn headed in a consolation from a Joe Willock cross in the 88th minute, sparking a melee that resulted in bookings for Pickford, James Tarkowski, Joelinton and Burn himself. The match was played in front of almost 8,000 travelling Newcastle supporters, who had been allocated 15% of the stadium's capacity.

Grealish omitted for discipline breach

The build-up was overshadowed by Everton manager David Moyes's decision to ban Jack Grealish from the squad for a breach of club discipline. The 31-year-old, on his second loan spell at Goodison, missed training without permission.

"He, and Everton, had every reason to feel let down by the team’s highest profile, highest paid player," Moyes said after the match.

Immediate Premier League rematch

Newcastle have little time to dwell on the exit, as they host Everton again in the Premier League on Monday night. David Moyes's side, currently 11th, are clear favourites for that fixture after this convincing win. The Toffees will face League Two Fleetwood in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

For Eddie Howe's side, the focus must shift to halting a league form that reads two wins and three losses from their last five games. They have conceded 14 goals this season, leaving them with a negative goal difference. The quick turnaround offers an immediate chance for response at St James' Park.

The original report is at The Guardian Football