Issy Hobson, remember the name.
Even though Clive Tyldesley wasn’t present at Walton Hall Park on Sunday, the spirit of a historic occasion from over two decades ago reverberated as Hobson, at just 16 years and 180 days old, came off the bench to score her first senior goal for Everton in injury time, securing a 1-1 draw against title-contenders Arsenal in the Women’s Super League.
It’s impossible not to draw parallels to when a teenage Wayne Rooney etched his name in Premier League history. Becoming the youngest-ever goalscorer at just 16 years and 345 days old, with a memorable strike against Arsenal. Rooney’s goal, a sublime finish curled beyond David Seaman, remains etched in football folklore.
Similar attributes can be attributed to Hobson, who, like Rooney, is a lifelong Everton supporter hailing from the city and progressing through the club’s academy ranks. Hobson’s entrance onto the pitch in the 81st minute mirrored Rooney’s debut in the 80th minute. Both goals marked their first senior league goals for Everton, in front of a home crowd, setting new records in the process (Rooney as the youngest Premier League goalscorer and Hobson as the youngest WSL goalscorer).
Hobson’s goal, a looping header from a miscued clearance in stoppage time, may not have been thunderbolt from long range. But it secured a valuable point. The image of keeper Manuela Zinsberger leaping in vain as the ball sailed over her will evoke fond memories for Everton fans, as will Hobson’s jubilant celebration, kissing the badge.
“It’s something I’ve been dreaming of since I started playing football,” said Hobson, basking in the glow of her achievement. Which ended Arsenal’s title hopes and marked her as Everton’s youngest women’s goalscorer in 14 years. “I’ve been at Everton for my whole life so it’s even more special. For the goal to contribute to getting a draw against Arsenal is the best feeling ever.”
While it remains to be seen if Hobson will emulate Rooney’s illustrious career. Her goal comes at a crucial time for Everton Women amidst a slew of injuries. Just as Rooney caught the eye of the footballing world with his debut goal. Hobson has announced her arrival with a moment of individual brilliance, leaving room for history to repeat itself.
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