Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s piece of brilliance ensured Everton secured a vital Premier League victory in their first game since the death of chairman Bill Kenwright.
On a poignant day for the Merseyside club, striker Calvert-Lewin turned his marker with a clever flick before firing low into the bottom corner.
It was a rare moment of quality in a scrappy encounter where both sides struggled to create chances.
Calvert-Lewin, who described Kenwright as a “great man” after the 78-year-old died on Monday, was the difference maker as Everton became only the fourth team to beat West Ham at home this year.
However, the Toffees needed keeper Jordan Pickford to be alert in stoppage time in order to clinch victory.
The England international barely had a save to make before beating away a fierce volley from Hammers substitute Said Benrahma.
Everton move five points clear of the relegation zone, although they remain fifth from bottom in the table.
West Ham, who stay ninth, have won just one of their past six Premier League games as their strong start to the season continues to fade.
‘Befitting’ to get win for Kenwright – Dyche
Before kick-off, there was a minute’s applause in memory of Everton chairman Kenwright and England World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton, who both died recently.
Everton manager Sean Dyche and West Ham boss David Moyes – who was Toffees boss from 2002 to 2013 and worked closely with Kenwright – both laid wreaths in the centre circle.
Hammers legend Sir Geoff Hurst, an England team-mate of Charlton and the sole surviving member of the 1966 team, joined them.
“It has been a sad week and I think it has been befitting to get the result for the chairman and his family,” Dyche said.
Everton goalscorer Calvert-Lewin dedicated the victory to Kenwright, who was the chairman at Goodison Park from 2004 until his death.
“His death was a shock and that one was for Bill,” Calvert-Lewin said.
“He would have been proud of the boys and proud of the way we did win – digging in and a good performance to the man.”
