Nigerian Odion Ighalo, Saturday, came off the bench to score for newly promoted Watford against hosts Everton in a thrilling 2-2 draw in the opening day of the Barclay’s English Premier League.

Ighalo, who was a huge influence in helping Watford secure promotion from the first division last season by scoring loads of goals, showed no stage fright in confronting Premier League defenders after his second half introduction.

With scores at 1-1 after Everton clawed their way back from a first half deficit, Ighalo got a pass in the Everton box in the 83rd minute, twisted and turned on the edge of the area, putting John Stones (who is being hotly chased by Chelsea) on the floor and opening up space for him to have a shot. He took the opportunity gleefully to restore Watford’s lead.

Everton however found a way back almost immediately in the rollercoaster of a match through a neat 85th minute finish from Arouna Kone. The Ivorian was scoring only his second goal for The Toffees since he joined them last year.

With Super Eagles Coach Sunday Oliseh requiring invited players to be playing regularly at the top leagues before they could be invited to the national team, Ighalo hasn’t done his chances in the Green-White-Green any harm at all.

•Photo shows Nigerian and Watford striker Odion Ighalo.