Brilliant Lukaku brace takes Everton to Wembley

Two tremendous goals from Romelu Lukaku preceded a well earned red card for Diego Costa as Chelsea finally imploded.

Michael Kenrick 12/03/2016 214comments  |  Jump to last

Gareth Barry Was involved in both incidents that ended with Diego Costa getting yellow carded before he too saw red after a second yellow.
Everton 2 - 0 Chelsea

Everton – in the shape of sharp-shooting Romelu Lukaku – drove a massive stake into the poor season Chelsea are having with a tremendous pair of goals to win this FA Cup Quarter-Final tie, and secure a visit to Wembley.

Ramiro Funes Mori was selected ahead of John Stones as a key part of the impregnable Everton defence that has been the object of intense scrutiny from opposition sides, pundits and fans alike. Tom Cleverley also returned with the ever-lively Aaron Lennon making his seventh successive start in a run that has seen him score four excellent goals.

Leighton Baines started despite claims from Martinez that his game is suffering from a chronic ankle problem. Mo Besic had to kick his heels on the bench alongside John Stones, where the enigmatic genius of Gerard Deulofeu remained unused again in this season's campaign to put Everton's name on the famous old trophy.

Chelsea, wearing white yet anything but pure, kicked off but Everton went forward, Baines firing in on Courtois. Everton then broke well down the right as Barry picked out Lukaku but it came to nought. Matic and Kenedy then combined to fashion a chance that was lashed well over the Gwladys Street goal.

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Michael Oliver did well to play advantage as Lukaku was fouled, and then brought play back but the Blues did little with the free-kick, although there had been good forward impetus when they did get possession, until they reverted to "pass the parcel" back to Robles. Azpilicueta then fouled Baines but another free-kick was wasted, Barry then catching Diego Costa, who reacted later by clattering Barry and playacting pathetically before jumping up in aggression... A very sensible yellow card from Oliver.

Funes Mori was next to inhibit the hugely unpopular striker as Everton looked to play hard-ball. Lukaku fired a cross a little too hard at Lennon who could not control his shot. Barry was then called for a foul but Chelsea failed to use the chance and Everton were attacking with some intent down the right Coleman going in strong on Pedro. Great to see the Blues showing some much needed feistiness to spice up the contest!

Kenedy then went in on Coleman and that riled the crowd again as the game kept getting broken up by stoppages that helped neither side. Chelsea started to string their play together with more cohesion, Costa collapsing in the Everton area under gentle pressure from Jagielka. Everton attacked through the middle, but were lacking ideas against a well-formed Chelsea defence that kept them well away from the Chelsea area despite some sustained pressure.

Again and again, the Blues player was forced to turn back, as Kenedy got a good talking to for his third infraction; should have been another card. From the free-kick, Cleverley made himself a chance to turn and shoot but well off target. Everton almost got behind Chelsea's solid defence down the right and earned a corner that was delivered well by Baines but headed away. Coleman then crossed a little too deep for Lukaku at the far post.

Kenedy stole the ball easily off Lennon and ran at Jagielka who was solid in defence. Coleman almost got done, passing the parcel rather than clearing it upfield, as the Blues expected to get more space to play their passing game, but the pressing was relentless. Pedro almost made something, running in ahead of Robles but playing it behind.

Lennon looked to run down the right but again, the ball was lost, and then Lennon called offside. Chelsea continued to probe dangerously but the Everton defence was doing its job effectively enough; however, the visitors were looking the brighter as they turned the screw a little, with Everton largely pinned back, Barkley almost invisible.

Jagielka was then card after fouling Fabregas. Willian set himself behind the set-piece and fired in a tremendous shot that Robles did well to divert over the bar. The Chelsea corner was punched away convincingly by Robles.

Everton finally attacked, Baines running forward and cutting back to Cleverley who did not hit it hard enough. A somewhat fractious a disjointed half came to an end with few real chance to write home about as both sides had pretty evenly cancelled each-other out.

No changes for the second half, as Everton kicked off but Chelsea were strong in their midfield possession. When the Blues did get the ball, again it was more "pass the parcel" back to Robles and they were lucky to get a free-kick, maddeningly played backwards... but somehow they got a corner and Funes Mori met it perfectly but headed just over whn he perhaps should have scored.

The game finally livened up a little as Robles could only flap at a cross, but the Blues played it out of defence and Barkley almost set Lukaku free but fro an excellent sliding tackle. A free kick a little far out was curled in by Baines to Funes Mori, maddeningly declared offside.

Lennon did well to win a corner that Baines put in too low but it ran through everyone and harmlessly away. Costa got sandwiched between Baines and Barry, landing heavily on Baines. Costa broke through on a good ball from Fabregas and ran in well, rounded Robles but fired right along the byeline with the goal gaping.

Everton were in danger of being too cautious as the need to defend was perhaps being overly indulged at the expense of attacking initiative, and it was drawing Chelsea to be more and more attacking... perhaps a cunning tactic to create space behind... but it felt increasingly risky. Fabregas was booked for catching Barry.

Coleman and Lukaku combined to win another corner that Baines curled deep but Courtois did his job well. Chelsea attacked but Everton broke with better pace, McCarthy unable to pick out Lukaku and Costa was running at Jagielka. Everton kept attacking as the tension reached new levels, but could not get a sight of goal. But from an Everton corner., it seemed to fall perfectly but could not be converted at short range.

Then Coleman created another chance, but Lennon's cut back was loose and Baines running in for a rocket was denied by Barry, Barkley lashing one from a wide angle high over the bar. With time now ticking away, Martinez was content to watch rather than intervene, the players showing more inventiveness but still failing to produce the right final ball.

Again, Lennon got forward and played the inviting low cross, and again, no-one wanted the responsibility of firing at the Chelsea goal. Lukaku failed to take the ball around Courtois, as they felt the urgency for more pressure, while Oscar replaced Willian with 17 minutes left. Chelsea attacked and Coleman was forced to put it behind for a corner, headed away strongly by Barkley in defence. Lennon again got forward well but this time overhit his cross when better as required.

Finally a change looked to be coming from Martinez, and it was to be Gerard Deulofeu finally being given a very limited chance to get in the game and show his magic. But before it could happen, Barkley picked out Lukaku, pushing him wide left with a very intelligent ball and, almost from the touchline, Lukaku produced a slalom a skier would have been proud of, dancing through four bemused defenders to fire low past Courtois, a truly outstanding effort after tremendous close control. Goodison went wild in recognition of an excellent moment.

From a Chelsea throw-in minutes later, Barkley again laid the ball perfectly through to Lukaku who was not offside and again the Big Man advanced and fired low in the other direction, with the other foot, to give Everton a fantastic 2-0 lead.

With Goodison rampant, Diego Costa reacted to a challenge from Barry and saw a second yellow... Barry niggled him with a bad tackle, at which point Costa got straight up and ran at Barry. First he stuck his head into Barry, then he seemed to be about to bite Barry’s neck, with Barry being booked for the original foul. This surreal moment was quickly followed by the same fate befalling Gareth Barry after he needlessly clipped Fabregas. John Terry came on for Chelsea, while Stones then replaced Lennon to see out the game. With Besic then replacing Barkley, whose two brilliant plays had changed this game.

In added time, to a tremendous ovation, Lukaku walked off milking the crescendo, Oumar Niasse coming on for the final minute or two.

A tremendous performance and result in the end – the perfect antedote to last weekend's dreadful denouement. Everton are on their way to Wembley for an FA Cup semi-final.

Everton: Robles; Coleman, Funes Mori, Jagielka [Y:43'], Baines; McCarthy, Barry [Y:84' YR:86'] Lennon (88' Stones), Cleverley, Barkley (90+2' Besic); Lukaku (90+4' Niasse).
Subs not Used: Howard, Osman, Deulofeu, Kone.

Chelsea: Courtois; Azpilicueta, Cahill, Ivanovic, Kenedy (85' Terry); Mikel, Matic (82' Remy); Willian (73' Oscar), Fabregas [Y:62'], Pedro; Diego Costa [Y:11' YR:84'].
Subs not Used: Begovic, Baba Rahman, Loftus-Cheek, Traore.

Referee: Michael Oliver

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Reader Comments (214)

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Tony J Williams
1 Posted 12/03/2016 at 16:35:49
Costa....fuck!
James Peter
2 Posted 12/03/2016 at 16:39:10
Never mind about them. That's our best 11. We're at home, under the lights. Let's do em!
Paul Holmes
3 Posted 12/03/2016 at 16:41:24
Typical Martinez... what about Besic in for OAP Gareth Barry (can't run) or free transfer Cleverley. You want your best players out on the pitch from the start, then take them off when they tire – not the other way round.
John Beesley
4 Posted 12/03/2016 at 16:46:50
That's the attitude James,
COYB
John Graham
5 Posted 12/03/2016 at 17:18:50
Think I would have preferred Besic to Cleverley. Maybe Deulofeu will get a chance to come on if alls going well.
COYB.
David Pearl
6 Posted 12/03/2016 at 17:27:09
I think Lennon can get at Kenedy... We need to give Costa a good kick to set him off on one. Maybe Besic is carrying a knock still or I’d have him in all day. Cleverley in the team though means we might see Baines throwing in some crosses from deep. COYB
Mark Daley
7 Posted 12/03/2016 at 17:30:06
Mo Besic not starting? Oh God, it's kick off.
Joseph Terrence
8 Posted 12/03/2016 at 18:03:13
Moshiri ought to take some of that transfer kitty aside and pay the officials. Ridiculous what Chelsea have got away with in the first 30 minutes.
Jay Wood
9 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:25:11
WHAT! A! FUCKING! GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!

Sweet. Sweet. Sweet.

Craig Fletcher
10 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:26:59
Couldn't be prouder of the lads. What a performance. And, you'd have to say, much better game management towards the end by Martinez.
Steve Dowdeswell
11 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:32:59
And that's why I am a blue!
Rob Hooton
12 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:33:59
Brilliant tenacious performance, what a cracking finale.
Mick Howard
13 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:35:42
Before the doom-mongers kick in, great decision telling Geri to put his tracky back on. Well done, Blues.
Mark Tanton
14 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:35:48
The only Evertonian not enjoying himself? Deulofeu.
Plato Stavrinos
15 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:36:07
Lukaku, you beast.
Jeremy Jansen
16 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:37:16
That first goal!!! Amazing! Not sure what the Suarez imitation from Costa was about but it'll be interesting to see if anything comes from it. Onwards and upwards.
Michael Kenrick
17 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:39:13
What a great way to celebrate the beginning of a new era for Everton under Farshad Moshiri! (Did they show him in the Directors Box at any point during the game?)

Well done, Lukaku, who I have given down the banks plenty of times this season.... 25 goals, the last two some of the best.

And well done, Everton manager Roberto Martinez.

Anthony Manning
18 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:39:21
Martinez has responded to this weeks criticism there, good game management towards the end with the correct subs. Let’s hope the penny has dropped although I doubt it.

Great performance from Coleman, Lennon and Rom. Wembley, here we come. COYB!!!!!!

Michael Williams
19 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:40:31
I expect this blog to be pretty quiet during the semi-final game because you will all be at Wembley!!! At least I hope you get to go. COYB!
Derek Williams
20 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:41:56
Christ, that felt good. Luka you beauty!! Now then, Crystal Palace please if you don't mind
Jamie Barlow
21 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:42:24
Fantastic result and performance from Bobby and the lads. Wembley here we come.

Dennis Ng
22 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:42:33
That 5 minutes won us the game. Otherwise it was pretty tight.
Simon Bradley
23 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:42:34
Yes Michael, they did show him - sitting next to Blue Bill right after Rom's second goal. HUGE smile on his face!
Lee Courtliff
24 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:43:02
Abso-fuckin-lutely brilliant finale. Well done everyone involved.

I pray I'm not working on Semi Final day.

Sue Brown
25 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:43:11
Very proud of the lads, that was class, Rom showing his worth with two brilliant goals.

Costa should of been off sooner, I couldn't watch that crap from him every week.

Dennis Ng
26 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:44:34
Well, they showed him but commentators didn't seem to know he is Moshiri, only talking about BK attracting his investment. FSG's not my favorite channel anyway.
Kase Chow
27 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:46:04
Great win!!!

Everton were fab today!!

Charlie Burnett
28 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:49:56
What a game that was brilliant to watch. Barry should be honoured the way he playing brilliant.

We all slag off Roberto including myself when it goes wrong but today he got everything spot on. Clap on the back for Roberto.
Joe Foster
29 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:50:21
Fantastic win!!
Jim Potter
30 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:54:01
Forgive me but fuck all the the negative bastards. Yes!!!
Michael Polley
31 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:54:17
Lukaku is God. Two great goals by the big man. Time for a beer to celebrate!!!
Joe Duffin
32 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:55:57
Still bouncing – thought Baines made a difference – team selection excellent and what about Lukaku.

Next stop, tickets for the semi – oh for a Watford and West Ham win tomorrow, but after today I think we could beat anyone.

Christopher Nicholls
33 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:56:56
Cracking cup tie, great result, two fantastic goals. Barkley had a difficult game, but still managed to slip Rom through for both. OK with Gareth having a bit of a rest as I would like Besic to get some game time.

Just seemed like we wanted it more on the day and we stood up to their (Costa’s) antics. Couldn’t fault the line up or effort today.

Peter Holland
34 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:57:08
Lukaku’s magical first goal will steal the headlines and that’s fair enough, but I thought that Lennon was outstanding today and since he has started against Deulofeu, I think that he has been one of our bargain buys....
Ray Smith
35 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:59:43
Paul #3

How do you feel now?

Regardless of Martinez inability, the lads produced the goods.

Andrew Laird
36 Posted 12/03/2016 at 19:59:53
Thank you Farhad Moshiri! Let's have crystal palace next please
Gavin Johnson
37 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:02:15
Well done to the lads!! We fought hard and closed Chelsea down. The best team won!

Rom's 1st goal was sublime. You can keep Rooney, Kane, Costa and Vardy. We have the best striker in the league! I wouldn't swap Rom for anyone.

Joe Clitherow
38 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:03:39
Just got in. Note only will I watch MotD for the game but in the last few minutes the Steadicam on the Bullens Road touchline was pointed straight at my section of the Paddock.

Hope I haven't embarrassed myself!! Actually I don't give a toss.

When Lukaku runs at defenders like that he is almost unstoppable. I think that is the first Everton player to score 25 goals since Gary Lineker.

Mark Lewis
39 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:03:59
Possibly the best way to welcome the new owner and show him how important Rom is to the team.
Phil Walling
40 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:06:03
Good old fashioned cup-tie, magnificently refereed by Michael Oliver. Amazingly, our defence held firm and set up the stage for our Olivier to deliver his lines.....perfectly.

That first goal will live in the memory.

Clive Lewis
41 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:07:03
Well done to the lads tonight, second half they were exceptional. Lukaku was fantastic, good to see Baines back.
Antony Matthews
42 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:08:55
Two away days left in the Fa Cup. With our away form what is there to stop us......apart from a dodgy ref
David Edwards
43 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:09:19
What a goal! That must go in history as one of the great moments at Goodison. Let's hope we don't have an anticlimactic semi now to take the edge off it.
John Atkins
44 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:10:03
Mr Moshiri will NOT let Rom leave.
Jamie Tulacz
45 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:13:45
Phil (#40) yes fully agree, best refereeing display I’ve seen in a long time. Not an easy game to ref as well with that twat Costa behaving like an idiot the whole way through.
Amit Vithlani
46 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:14:00
I am incredibly proud to be a part of the Blue Clan this evening. Thank you blue boys for a night that will live long in the memory.

Rom is a god. But a word too for Jags, Funes Mori, Coleman and Baines who were colossal. Barry and McCarthy did well too.

Señor Martinez, you assembled this team and I doff my cap for THAT to you on this evening. I hope it makes you realise the immense potential this squad has, and also reminds you of what an electrifying place Goodison Park can be when the Blues play to their potential.

Dave Lynch
48 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:15:08
Great result and great atmosphere, my voice went on the 60-minute mark.

Can’t grumble at anything tonight, they are a very good well drilled outfit. I thought Cleverley was outstanding but no doubt others will have their own MotM; it matters fuck all though, we were a decent unit and well worth the win.

Carl Peters
49 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:17:08
Absolutely delighted with that performance tonight; well done, Blues... Big Rom, magnificent.

Hopefully Martinez is learning you can defend and still win games.

More of the same please.

Dave Lynch
50 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:17:46
I agree with the comment on Oliver as well, stunning refereeing display from a young lad.

Take a bow son.

Clive Mitchell
51 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:19:55
Great win, made the more sweet because of the toxic foulness of the opponents.
Jay Wood
52 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:20:33
Did I mention already...?

WHAT! A! FUCKING! GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!

I can’t stop replaying it and marvelling at every phase of Lukaku’s creation and finishing of it...

It that doesn’t win every goal of the season going this year, somebody is going to have to score one of the greatest goals in the history of the game.

I don’t want to subtract anything from Ross’s stats, but if he is credited with an ’assist’ for Rom’s 1st goal, then you have to question just how some stats are compiled.

That was all about the power, the grace, the balance, the vision, the belief and the finishing of one man... that ’lazy, limited footballer’, still only 22 years old, Romelu Lukaku, the first Everton player to score 25 goals in a single season since Gary Lineker’s 40 goals 30 years ago.

Am I allowed to say again...

WHAT! A! FUCKING! GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!

James Byrne
53 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:22:10
Great first goal by Rom and a great response from the manager and the team. All done under the scrutiny of the new owner.

Glad to see the Spanish Lee Evans get sent off.

Matt Muzi
54 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:23:16
Phenomenal!!

I was sat right next to the Chelsea fans all game they were not happy!!

Paul Conway
55 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:23:43
I was watching with my missus and, early on, she said, "Lukaku can’t run very fast!"

I said, "Cherie," (as I now live in the South of France) – "Lukaku is like a lizard, he soaks up the sun keeping his energy levels high and then whaaaaaaaaaaaam, he spends all his energy in the one shot" – and it was so satisfying to see him just do that. She is a big Lukaku fan now.

And now all my friends are starting to hear who Everton is. Especially after seeing them deservedly beating Chelsea. (Although 20 years ago Chelsea were never heard of in France!)

I would love to see Lukaku, Stones and Barkley growing old at Goodison, just like Compo, Foggy and Clegg.

Remember, Chelsea were linked at one stage with these three!

Hands off!!

Anto Byrne
56 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:24:57
Barry had to go and spoil it; a good player but time for Mo to stand up with an unstoppable performance.

Cleverley is such a good player and Ross did his job today – unspectacular but very solid; good to see.

Coleman was outstanding and the beast up front is the worst centre-forward since that dead-beat Lineker. Roll on the semi-final – let's hope they don’t get stage fright.

Kevin Johnson
58 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:27:45
Here we go, Here we go, Here we go!
Everton are the best, we all know,
We’re the team, we're supreme...

Get in, you Blue Boys.

Jamie Crowley
59 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:28:46
It has to be said:

Roberto got the best of Potato Head. Some of you anti-Roberto folks need to give a shout out to the gaffer in my humble opinion.

Oliver was fantastic – and that was not an easy game to officiate. Really top game by him.

I agree with Jay Woods (!) – THAT goal was just sublime. My God, you could watch 1000 games and never be so blessed to see something like that. Beautiful.

Who’s happy??!!

Mark Frere
60 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:29:22
The game was a pretty cagey affair with little in the way of chances. Our big Belgian made all the difference.

Moshiri’s first bit of business should be to tie Rom to a new 5 year contract in the excess of £100k a week. Lukaku has to be one of the best strikers in Europe.

It's not just the goals he scores, his whole game has come on leaps and bounds. His hold-up play and linking up play is excellent. I personally wouldn’t swap him for any other striker in the Premier League.

Colin Hughes
61 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:29:47
Ricky Villa in the 1981 Cup Final replay springs to mind when I think of similar solo goals in the FA Cup. If Man Utd get through tomorrow, there will be three of the same four in the semi finals as when we won it in 95 with Spurs being the only absentee. Could be an omen.
Iain Love
62 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:29:51
Apart from PSG, Chelski haven’t lost under Hiddink. Great result, Barry can have a rest and we can have another look to see if Besic is the man to replace him (eventually).

Rom's first goal just shows what a gem we have and how important it is to keep hold of him. I don't care how much we’re offered or whether he wants to go or not... Dont let him go, keep him and change the manager (Hiddink would be nice) and use Moshiri's money to add a bit and with our squad we can be up there with the best again.

Andy Meighan
63 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:30:01
Strange old game... nothing to separate them for 70 minutes, then we just came to the party and, as David (#43) said, that first goal of Lukaku's will go down in folklore. Absolute quality. He just bullied four Chelsea players and slotted a truly amazing goal.

For me, a 56-year-old fan of 48 years going the game, one of the best I've seen from any Everton striker – just pure brute strength.

I've been a big critic of him at times because possibly of his attitude sometimes... but that 2-goal salvo was special.

Funnily enough, it didn’t seem like a Martinez performance, more of a Moyes type... but hey, who am I to call him tonight – he got it spot on which rather begs the obvious question. A long way to go before we win it and I’m not getting carried away so let's enjoy tonight and see who comes next.

Rob Hooton
66 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:30:30
Say it again, Jay!

What a beauty!!!!!

Declan Campbell
68 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:32:09
Alan Bodell, who does Rom down on here. Would you still rather Lukaku leaves and Everton sign Benteke to replace him?
Jim Bennings
70 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:32:19
Special mention today for Gareth Barry.

Everton stalwart, fucking legend!

Totally rattled that lycanthrope hybrid Costa into the red card he deserved and took a booking for the team when the other odious rat Fabregas did his bit by rolling around to get the second yellow for Bazza.

Get to the final for Barry.

YESSSSSSS!!!!!!

Paul Conway
74 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:34:13
Many thanks to TW? I'm sure Martinez followed the advice. The substitutions, however, a little late, were the tactics of someone who knows what they're doing.

I don't know what I am feeling, what a difference a week in football can make. I am actually multi-tasking! I have a glass o’ wine and a beer on the go.

Celebrate good times, come on (You Blues),
Celebrate good times come on! (You Blues)....
Lukaku and the gang! Yeeeeeaaah!

Colin Hughes
75 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:34:54
Just checked and there is no FA Cup Match if the Day on tonight, just Premier League highlights. So we can come down to earth by watching Bournemouth win and go onto the same points as us in the league with two hard game next against Arsenal and Man Utd.
Guy Hastings
77 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:35:44
James 59 - yes, Oliver was terrific. Took his time making card decisions, allowed the game to flow, got 'fouls' right when it took TV needed the benefit of replays to get it right. Man of the Match for me.
Andrew Presly
78 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:36:58
All of those who insult and belittle the manager every day now get to boycott Wembley. Tickets at face value for the 25 percentile. Good times.
David Price
79 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:37:11
That was game management from Roberto today. Yes he can do it after all. We did need the solo brilliance from Rom as it had 0-0 all over it. However, that’s the beauty of staying in the game and having a striker like Lukaku.

Cleverley offered defensive cover and Baines was never exposed, like wise Coleman with Lennon. Ross was quiet today,which negated us going forward.

Centre backs and centre midfield were superb, but it took Lukaku’s brilliance to get us through. Great night, grown men with tears in their eyes singing at the end. That’s what it means and our owner saw it live. Fantastic.

Paul Andrews
80 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:38:15
Great performance from the lads and the manager.

Tactics spot on.Restricted the Prem form team to one shot on target. Jagielka immense with Funes Mori not far behind, potentially a very good centre half partnership there.

Seamus Coleman!!!How good was he? What can you say about Lukaku, took a lot of stick about his first touch etc etc. His hold-up performance tonight was A1. First goal? Any striker in the world would've been proud of that.

The balance we have been asking for was there tonight. Potentially a very good side in the making here.

Jim Bennings
81 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:38:57
I'll be on cloud 99 when we win that FA Cup at Wembley in May, bring it on, anyone, in the good words of Delia...

Let's be 'avin YOU!!!

Hahaha.....

Ernie Baywood
82 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:41:40
One of the great goals. Jay, maybe not an assist in the usual sense but who else puts the ball out in front of Rom? Ross plays to Rom’s strengths.

He might look like he doesn’t care but watch him after the second goal... I think I heard his roar from here. The calmest bloke in the ground on the ball but, as the song says, he’s a Toffee through and through.

Hard to pick bad performances tonight. McCarthy was a warrior and gets right in the face of twats like Costa. Cleverley and Lennon worked their socks off. Barry too cool for Costa (shame about the second yellow). Centre backs and Joel were great, both full backs had good games. Ross and Rom – for all the other good performances behind them it was those two who had the impact. That’s what you judge them on.

Sorry to add a negative but for the one bad performance of the night I’ll single out the live forum of this site. I make a point of not challenging the credentials of blues but I’m breaking my rule – some of you don’t deserve this club and it sickens me that you are considered Evertonians in the same breath as the rest of us. I’ll accept that football knowledge varies just as much as intellect does but the posts on that forum tonight were ridiculous. It was like a moron’s soapbox. Even after the goals they were still coming. I wouldn’t even elevate it to kopite behaviour.

Stephen Beattie
83 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:41:57
Take a bow, Roberto. Kept it tight knowing Chelsea would tire after midweek in Europe. Then pushed the fullbacks forward in second half. And stopped the Geri sub after the first goal.

Rom – amazing! Moshiri – give that man whatever he wants to keep him!

Gavin Johnson
84 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:44:19
Must check out that horrible 'We Ain't Got No History' fan site tonight! Can't wait to read the vitriol against the striker Chelsea were calling their reject last season. There's some of them on Twitter saying they still wouldn't have him back. Total sour grapes.. boo hoo! lol
Ernie Baywood
85 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:44:56
And the bloke bouncing around with the kid at the end... Was like that grey haired fella at Elland Rd (post Amo) for a new generation.

I'm sure there are many who know exactly who I mean.

Conor Skelly
86 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:45:23
Very Ricky Villa-esc goal from Rom. Fantastic. Does anyone know what dates the semis are pencilled in for?
Christopher Nicholls
87 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:45:24
A goal of legendary status. Watched it over and over. Can Rom do a Latch and break 30 for the season.
Craig Mills
88 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:48:09
Fantastic night at Goodison in what's been a well documented disaster season at home, it shows what we are capable of when we put it together, big pat on the the back for Martinez, he deserves it after a result like that, also a magnificent performance from the ref, best I've seen all season by far,

On to Wembley we go!!!

Dave Abrahams
89 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:50:27
Great games from Barry, McCarthy, Cleverley, Lennon, Jagielka, Funes Mori, Coleman but MotM has to be Lukaku for that first goal... brilliant. No complaints tonight about anything or anybody, it would be extremely churlish to moan after that result and 90 minutes of effort and energy.

I’m a very happy Blue tonight. Thank you, Everton.

John Raftery
90 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:52:26
FA Cup quarter finals are all about the result, not the performance. That was not a perfect performance tonight but it was a perfect result. The first goal from Romelu was fantastic, probably our goal of the season. He actually used the retreating defenders to his advantage with Courtois having no option but to stay on his line.

We defended well after scoring although there were still heart in mouth moments such as when Seamus lost possession in his own half trying to dribble through a clutch of Chelsea players. Nevertheless we are through to a semi-final and have yet to concede a goal.

The atmosphere tonight was tremendous with fans on all three and a half sides of the old ground on their feet and shouting support instead of moaning and groaning. It was lovely to see Chelsea fans hurling their scarves on to the pitch from the Bullens Road. Their season is over. The best part of our season may be yet to come. As for Roberto, let’s hope the template used tonight is the one he uses going forward.

Jack Mason
91 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:53:48
It was great a performance by the players and Martinez got everything right tonight. The fans did their part too. I'm sure Moshiri saw plenty of evidence of were his investment could take the club.
Trevor Peers
92 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:55:02
Lukaku's goal was a classic. My two sons went today , made up for them!
The new owner looked very happy all in all a perfect day. Hopefully we can kick on and win the old tin pot !!!!!!!!!!
Steve Pugh
93 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:55:06
In the words of a proper Englishman. That was quite good.... yes definitely quite good. Well done chaps.
Jay Harris
94 Posted 12/03/2016 at 20:59:45
The only complaint about the officiating was the lack of a yellow for Kenedy.
What a refreshing change to get decisions.

Brillant goals from Lukaku and stout defending from the back 5.

Great to see that little shit Costa get his just deserts.

For once a well deserved happy weekend for players and supporters.

Paul Tran
95 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:00:38
Martinez has taken deserved stick off most of us this season, but for me the players owed him a performance and they gave us all a belter. Just like the nasty cup-ties of my youth. Wonderful stuff, now let's do that more often.
Phil Walling
96 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:01:39
No, Steve, it was fucking marvellous!
Grant Rorrison
97 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:01:54
Well that's Chelsea and Bournemouth avenged for the league fixtures. Just West Ham and.... Watford maybe? Or Palace, still to go.
Tamhas Woods
98 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:03:12
Watched the whole damn thing – we’ve just seen something special. We were brutal in the defensive half and clinical up front.

In terms of "transitional" matches, its up there with the Ferguson derby in 94 (characterised by unity), the 5-0 over Sunderland (ruthlessness) that heralded BK’s arrival in 1999, and DM’s debut win over Fulham (grit).

Those three qualities were in abundance tonight, and combined to deadly effect.

Performance of the season. Hands down.

Ron Sear
99 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:03:49
That goal has to be one of the finest I've ever seen. Watched it with sheer disbelief at actually being present when something of such utter beauty happened in front of my eyes.
Colin Glassar
100 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:07:45
Well, well, well, I've just done a 'Likely Lads' and just watched the recorded game without knowing the result so you can imagine this was a pleasant surprise.

I thought the first hour was very tactical, neither side wanting to concede and then, up steps Big Rom and fucking rapes them!!! Get in you fucking beautttttttyyyyy! Made fucking up.

Good on the lads and good on Martinez who for once outwitted a more experienced manager.

Conor Skelly
102 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:10:21
Goal of the season given the context. Bumper contract on offer. Give him a £100k p/w. Bump Ross up to £75k. Keep this team together at all costs.

Our name is on that cup and those special players will go down in folklore. People play down the cup but life is all about timing. Win this thing and watch us take off.

Tony Hill
103 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:10:25
It was a fantastic night and the best atmosphere at Goodison for a very long time. Lukaku was superb throughout and Lennon was again excellent.

The players are all clearly trying their best for the manager and that's very good to see. Tonight is not the night for any wider consideration.

Dave Abrahams
104 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:10:46
My wife has just got back in after dropping my grandsons off in Walton road and County road, she said the streets are alive with people dancing and singing all over the place, Inwish I could join them but I'm drained after roaring the Blues on and kicking every ball and making every tackle with the players today.

Saving myself and energy for Wembley now.

Dean Rolstone
105 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:12:02
Absolutely buzzing after that result. It was a nervy game but for the first time in a while I didn't sense us conceding a goal.

Got to agree with Jay, I thought Oliver had an immense game, the only slight downer was not booking Kenedy for one of his three fouls in quick succession.

My only slight grumble is why in cup ties at Goodison do all the tv microphones seem to be positioned by the away fans giving a false impression of the atmosphere to the watching public.

Anyway take a bow Rom for the goals and the rest of the team and the manager for tonights result, now we've got potentially two 'away' games left in the cup and we're usually decent away! See you all at Wembley, Come on you Toffees!!

Peter Gorman
106 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:13:58
Lukaku......what a beast. Made up with the whole team, they owed us something to cheer. Let's enjoy it for now and hope they don't fritter it away come the semis.

Also, hats off to Barry for just shrugging off all that nonsense from Costa. Old school attitude, wish it was more common place.

But, seriously, Andrew Presley 78 - a very stupid point that surprisingly has been made before; the fans support the club not the manager so good luck getting a ticket.

Garry Taylor
107 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:14:26
What a fantastic performance and great victory!

There would have twice as many comments on here had we lost. So sad when you think about it.

Roger Helm
108 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:15:23
Had to watch on TV as I could not go – fantastic day for the club, deservedly beating a much more expensive team. All the players did well and battled to the end (why don’t they do that in the league?) and the fans created what sounded like an amazing atmosphere – all the commentators mentioned it.

Is Lukaku going to be the best striker in world football? You would swap him for Messi (28) probably, but Ronaldo (31) or Ibrahimovich (34)? I wouldn’t.

In the directors box Moshiri looked pretty happy and BK also looked good. Tell me ma.....

Dave Lynch
109 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:17:11
Not very PC Colin but a brilliant analogy all the same mate.

Now please let's get to the final, the fans deserve it for the disappointments over the years.

Oh... And don't fucking blow it when we get their.

Darren Hind
110 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:17:27
Just left there, Dave (A), the place is bouncing.

You can't really criticise Martinez when he gets it wrong if you're not going to give him the credit when he gets it right. He’s been slaughtered and rightly so. The pressure on him has been enormous and, although it was a moment of individual brilliance that won it for us, it was his tactics against a vastly improved Chelsea which kept us in it.

Fair play to him.

Kieran Kinsella
111 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:17:38
Conceivably, Chelsea, Man Utd, and Liverpool could all miss out on Europe with Man City only in the Europa League. Remarkable season all around.
Dan Davies
112 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:19:11
Fair play to the lads Lukaku needs a new contract to keep him at the club longer term, hopefully Moshiri can convince him to stay put. Well happy tonight! Coyb
Don Alexander
113 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:20:56
Every credit to the team and, for once, and as an Evertonian I'm sad it's only once, Martinez. I hope Mr Moshiri was impressed with what Evertonians showed themselves to be and will DEMAND what we all want from this squad and hopefully a top notch addition or two; league success next season.
John Atkins
114 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:27:29
Ernie #82

I too get frustrated by the negative comments on TW, Personally I’m a glass half full but I do post on the live forum when not at the game but to be fair to most fans who post are posting live – its is like being at the game fans emotions run high.

Having an issue with fans going mental on the live forum is the same as being annoyed with fans at the game screaming at Ross or Seamus or Gareth and calling them a useless twat for a pass that’s gone wayward – it’s called passion and emotion.

I’ve kicked every ball tonight, screamed at every player... We are all blues at the end of the day and sure we all have the same feelings for the club. We just react in different ways.


Trevor Lynes
115 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:27:45
Having watched Everton much longer than most on here I will say that big Roms goal was the best I have ever seen.There has never been an Everton player in my experience who could have scored that goal. Shearer was absolutely purring about it.It combined ball control, power, pace and clinical finishing. There was no assist as he received the ball wide left and the rest was all Lukaku.I have watched the great 60’s teams and also Kendall's title winners but no centre forward or anyone else for that matter has ever scored a goal quite like that.If our new management can keep this lad we will perhaps have a really top side. We just need a real playmaker.Barry and Jags will need replacing soon plus we need more specialist cover at right back.Where can we find a Keane or Viera to replace the excellent but ageing Barry. Perhaps Stones can regain his top form and take Jags place eventually.We need another top goalkeeper. I wish we could find another Mahrez or Silva to create and chip in with a few goals.Seeing our new investor smiling at the end has filled me with optimism :)))
Ian Jones
116 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:29:28
Hi. A lot of happy people on here including Phil Walling! Great stuff

A lot of positivity. Only negative is that very few are praising Martinez but credit where it’s due. Today he was very much part of the reason we won. He even had the nous to amend the first sub tonight when Gerard was originally coming on.

Dave Ganley
117 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:31:07
That was a proper game of football.....not one for the purists but had me on the edge of the seat all game. Goodison was absolutely rocking tonight, fantastic atmosphere. Loved it.

Days like today make all the previous shit and disappointment all worthwhile. Wembley next stop. I cant wait now. Brilliant stuff from the lads. I have no voice left but it was so worth it.

Paul Mackie
118 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:31:28
I said it when we signed him and I’ll say it again tonight – Lukaku is going to be the best striker in the world.
Colin Glassar
119 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:32:07
I said it a few months ago that when Martinez really concentrates, really focuses on his team selection, tactics, substitutions etc....he’s a bloody decent manager. It’s when he seems to underestimate the opposition or doesn’t prepare the lads properly is when he comes unstuck. If only he treated every game like his job depended on it.
Jimmy Salt
120 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:32:20
I missed the Rooney goal against the Arse but I was there tonight... great goal, Rom.
Grant Rorrison
122 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:40:07
We still haven’t conceded a goal in the cup this season. Just like in 1995. Palace are in the semi’s for the first time since... 1995.

If Man Utd win, they might play Palace like they did in.... 1995.

We’ll probably get Arsenal... A London club, play attractive football, but not really successful. Just like in... 1995.

People will claim Arsenal - Man Utd is the preferred or ’dream final’. Just like in... 1995.

Our route to the final has been lower league side, lower league side, premier league side, premier league side, just like in 1995.

We beat the then premier league champions in winning the cup in 1995.

If Niasse wanders on in a semi against Arsenal with score at 2-1 and scores twice... it’s on :)

Jeff Armstrong
123 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:41:54
Colin, how can he be a bloody decent manager when he doesn’t actually do the basic things a bloody decent manager on 3 million quid a year would do, like consider the opposition, or prepare "the lads" for the forthcoming game. You’ve basically said it – he couldn’t manage a corner shop, a fart in the bath, or a kids' footie team...
Andrew Laird
124 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:42:37
Colin, maybe having the new investor who Martinez will be accountable to from now on watching on from the stand, put the pressure on him to concentrate for a change and not drop a bollock like putting Kone on for 15 minutes...

Let’s face it, without any pressure his decisions have been questionable at best yet today he shores up the defence when we have a lead for the first time in his tenure here, coincidence? No. Like I said earlier, thank you Farhad.

Anthony Jones
125 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:43:24
Costa was hungry for the win.
Peter Roberts
126 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:44:18
I slate Rom week-in & week-out when he has a stinker. So tonight it’s fair to say he was at his game changing best. Brilliant brace, the finishes were the best part – arrowed.

If we could bottle a potion that turns him into the mode we seen in the play for the first then he’s world class.

Ian Bennett
127 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:45:07
We played with brains and shape. A disciplined performance that we haven't seen since the first season.

An outstanding Lukaku brace, what a top talent. The new owner needs to get him signed to a big long deal.

Ken Jones
128 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:45:43
The place was rocking tonight and it was great to be there. The team generally played well, listening to the phone-in on the way home there were some negative comments about Barkley but for me he gave his all & was closely marked by Chelsea.

The goals from Rom were top draw, especially the first, also watching that prick Costa get a red was enjoyable; I felt sorry for Barry who played well.

Thought Martinez made the right substitutions in total contrast to last week, and the second goal had the desired effect on Chelsea, who limped through the remainder of the game.

Paul Kernot
129 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:48:26
Rom playing under Mourinho. Ha!
David Cooling
130 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:48:59
Good result tonight for EFC, let's have some consistency now until the end of the season. Wishful thinking maybe.
Garry Taylor
131 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:50:26
Grant, I thought exactly the same as you last night when I heard Palace had gotten to the semi's for the first time since 1995 and United still in the frame.

We also played with three centre mids and one winger that year too.

Peter Jones
132 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:53:03
I'm still not happy with the West Ham game... but tonight was absolute MAGIC. Thanks to the team and even the manager for letting me experience this.

We MUST keep Lukaku! :) Happy happy happy! :)

Danny Broderick
133 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:54:07
Credit where it is due. Today, the team were brilliant, they ran their hearts out. Gareth Barry was immense, he should be our captain in my opinion!

We also saw some game management from Martinez with his subs, although I think the fans’ criticism since last week has forced him into it. There would have been a riot if he made an attacking sub at 2-0!

The tactics should be simple with this team. Just concentrate on our defending, make sure we are well organised and hard to score against. And then just get the ball to Lukaku. Give him some proper service – and I mean PROPER service – and we’ve got a top 4 / top 6 team here. It really is that simple.

Enjoy tonight boys! Nights like this are what being an Evertonian is all about.

Colin Glassar
134 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:54:52
I’ve been saying for a while now Andrew that it seemed to me that Roberto was running the club and was answerable to no one as BK had virtually disappeared from the scene (good to see him back but he doesn’t look well).

Now with the new boss he might have to start answering some more demanding questions. I still think he’s only got the remainder of the season to define his future. Today’s win was great but it doesn’t paper over the cracks.

ps: I am so chuffed for Lukaku. When he was getting torn apart last season I was pleading for patience as I knew he would/will become one of the finest strikers of his generation. In my opinion he must be in the £75m+ category now without exaggerating.

John Keating
135 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:56:38
John (#114),

Spot on regarding post 82 which the last paragraph was ridiculous.

As you said, the forum mirrors being at the match.

Dave Older
136 Posted 12/03/2016 at 21:59:42
£28 million great British pounds well spent methinks on the absolute juggernaut that is Romelu Lukaku. When he scores goals like that I have to say the sky is the limit for the Belgian brute.

He must frighten defenders to death when he runs at them. It's always great to beat Chelsea but tonight's win just feels sooooooooooo good.

It's been an up and down season but this game has made me forget last week completely Rom that brace was fucking brilliant tonight, if you keep scoring goals like this team cam do something special.

I am not gonna lie, I can't stop smiling. Get in there Bobby M, you have done us proud tonight. COYB!!!!!!!
Daniel Joseph
137 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:00:40
I wonder if Gary Cahill has managed to undo his legs yet?
Ian Burns
138 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:03:21
Wonderful occasion; fantastic result and it has all been said about the first goal - must be a contender for goal of the season.

I never wanted Martinez; I have been one of the posters constantly calling for his resignation but one has to give credit where it is due. As much as I dislike him as a manager, he deserves a well-earned pat on the back, he got all of the calls right tonight and gave us a night to remember. Thanks Mr Martinez, one happy fan tonight and you deserve your share of the credit.

Colin Glassar
139 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:04:09
Paul Holmes #3, a post for posterity sir. I hope you're proud of yourself.
Mike Hughes
140 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:11:02
Great result.

New era with Moshiri. Everton beating Arsenal in the final would be good for him.

(Colin – I was just going to type that I was pleased BK looked reasonably well !!! Agree the result doesn’t paper over the cracks.)

Nice also that Chelski (with their usual ’Sign On’ chant) had it stuffed down their obnoxious throats.

Lukaku’s goal – what can you say? We need to keep him and play to his strengths.

Well done, you Mighty Blues.


Tony Hill
141 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:11:18
Colin (#134), I think that valuation is spot on. Will he stay, given that all of Europe will be after him? I had written him off as a certain departure but now I’m not so sure. He’s a clever lad and I don’t think he’ll be easily persuaded by his arsehole of an agent to leave. He seems very popular with the other players which is a good sign.

If he does go then £75m plus is indeed right.

Jeff Armstrong
142 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:18:34
Ken (#128), I was at same game as you. I suppose it’s about opinions, but to say Barkley gave his all is an insult to Lennon, Jagielka, McCarthy (limited footballer) but real grafter.

The lad has obviously been told to not get involved in tackling, harrying, tracking back, making a nuisance of himself when not in possession, etc and he is revelling in those instructions, carrying them out to a tee in fact.

I'm not sure it’s helping his development into a top midfielder, though!

Paul Hughes
143 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:21:04
Told her I would be straight home after the match still in pub.

What a brilliant performance, the lads worked their socks off.

Solid defensive display and I thought the ref had a great game.
Andrew James
144 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:21:40
The one thing that struck me was that they're still playing for the manager. There was a very good team spirit out there which players like Baines, Barry and Lennon epitomized.

That's the thing with this group, they're not a shower like the RS were in Rodgers final months or Newcastle or Sunderland before Allardyce. They perform well together, it's just been daft mistakes or not seeing a game through (I include Martinez in this to a great degree) and some bad luck. But they'll always be in the mix because they don't completely down tools.

Today was evidence Roberto hasn't lost the dressing room. Let's hope we can now go on a run.

Oliver Molloy
145 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:24:44
Jamie Crowley,
"Roberto got the best of Potato Head. Some of you anti-Roberto folks need to give a shout out to the gaffer in my humble opinion"

What are you saying – that anyone who has voiced their concern about the manager are all wrong because he won a quarter final cup match tonight.

Hasn’t he done that before and then fucked it up when it mattered? I can only speak for myself (as a person who has lost faith in Martinez).

So in my opinion you are a little bit hasty with your " humble opinion" request. My thoughts have not changed because we beat Chelsea. Martinez is not the messiah EFC require to take us were we have not been for a long long time. My opinion is based on what I have witnessed from him as a manager and the crap he talks as a manager.
Some of us choose to see and hear, others choose not.

Lukuka fantastic tonight when it mattered, that was the difference. This rest of the team did what was required.

I’m very happy we are in the hat next round, very happy to see BK at the ground,and very happy to be an Evertonian and lastly very happy to make my own mind up.

Tony Hill
146 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:30:14
Photographs of Mr Moshiri reveal an unconvincing, watery smile and cold eyes. Excellent. Not the sort of chap who will be too impressed by pious waffle, I suspect.
Jeff Armstrong
147 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:34:03
Hear hear, Oliver, one game after Armageddon and Martinez is the new Messiah...

Big Joe in for negotiating our way to another FA Cup success .

Christopher Nicholls
148 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:35:49
Been too long since a ’proper’ Number 9 graced the turf of Goodison Park. Kone – hand it over... it belongs to Rom.
Brent Stephens
149 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:38:38
Superbly refereed game that went quickly from box to box without getting much into the box. Tense. Volatile at times. Rom... BEAST. BEAST. BEAST. We should chant that at games, like the South Africans (RU) do for their forward.

Roberto got that one spot on. Well done.

Christopher Nicholls
150 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:41:50
Tony Hill (#146)

TV replays of Mr Moshiri reveal a bloke that was thinking ’Blimey, I have bought a belter of a stadium and a team that just tonked Chelsea!’

Philip Yensen
151 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:42:27
This is Everton at our best, except for the last 4 minutes + added time. Once again Martinez fucks about with unfathomable substitutions. Why take off Lennon? Why leave Barry on with one yellow card? Why bring Stones on? His first touch was shit.

At 2-0 and coasting, why even change it. What is this fucking idiot thinking??? If it’s not broke, leave the fucking thing alone!!!

We played more like a Moyes team today and hit them hard and fast. A "Roberto Moyes" would be perfect.
Tony Hill
152 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:48:21
Christopher (150), I doubt that very much.
Andy Davidson
153 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:46:59
Nice to see that reduced ticket prices for the FA Cup semi-finals and Final at Wembley were announced last month:

http://www.thefa.com/news/the-fa-cup/2016/feb/semi-final-final-ticket-prices-reduced-150216

David Edwards
154 Posted 12/03/2016 at 22:53:15
Oliver (145) – a fine riposte. For some to suggest that we should not be enjoying a great night at Goodison, just because we do not think Roberto is the way forward long-term, are taking the for-or-against debate to rather childish extremes.

I actually think he has at last taken on board some of the tactical criticism and player selection issues raised recently – but it is too late for many of us. 15 months of under-achievement for the squad we currently have is too much – our home record is a disgrace – but thank God the likes of Lukaku and Lennon as well as a solid defensive performance at last, made up for last week’s debacle.

However, this is not the night for such discussions – let’s all enjoy the moment and the buzz – and continue the long-term banter between our warring factions next week. At the time I will be able to reiterate – win or lose the cup, Martinez out next season. Hope that isn’t too confusing or ambiguous!

David Edwards
155 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:07:36
Lest we forget – a week before Easter and we still haven’t reached 40 points and so-called ’safety’ yet.

Let’s not beatify Roberto just yet. He’s not the Messiah – he’s a very naughty boy!

Dave Abrahams
156 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:08:19
For those interested the whole game is on BBC now, just press the red button and you’ll get the game on. Me... I’m off to Bo-Bo’s.
Andrew Laird
157 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:16:10
Farhad Moshiri, the greatest defensive coach Everton have ever had!
Graham Mockford
159 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:21:54
Philip Yensen #151

Unlike Jamie's attempt at irony in #47 I think you may have posted that in all seriousness. Un-fucking- believable!

I'm deliberately steering clear of getting into Lukaku discussions tonight, very little to be said.

Having got home from the game today, it was one of those special games to be at. The atmosphere under the lights at GP was right up there with some of the best I've been at. I for one don't want to move to a new anonymous purpose built stadium, let's hope the change in shareholding looks at redevelopment as an option. Many times I've left the ground thinking why the fuck do I keep coming here but on days like today you realise why you keep coming back.

Peter Mills
160 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:35:59
Dave (#156), Thank you so much. Having left the Bug and Bite at 10:00pm to get home for MotD, I have been quietly fuming at our absence from the programme, determined not to let it spoil my day. So I’ve pressed the red button and suddenly I’ll be staying up for another hour!

Today has been a good day. What a joy to come out onto Goodison Rd and have grown men embracing and singing. Is there a better place in the world than Goodison Park when it’s rocking?

Scott Robinson
161 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:36:34
@ Philip 151: Actually, I think Martinez actually got his substitutions spot on, unlike last week - its obvious Lennon can’t last the full 90 minutes. Bringing on Stones was sensible. Besic did well and Niasse at the end was given a runout... with 2-0 up and 3 minutes to go, it was a calculated risk.

You can’t sub a player every time they are on a yellow card, especially with a few minutes to go. What’s the probability of getting two yellows in the space of a few minutes??

He had actually had Delboy ready to go until we scored and swiftly changed his plans. Fair play to Martinez this week!

Colin Glassar
162 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:36:41
A couple of points to make before I retire to my boudoir.

1) The ref was great today but after watching MotD just confirms my suspicions that we have some of the worst refs in the world... eg, with second to go to HT, the ref gives Norwich a corner and, just as they are going to take it, he blows his whistle to finish the half.

2) I am enjoying my humble pie regarding Lennon. I was totally wrong about him and I admit it. He’s been brilliant.

3) Graham, the third post in this thread is still the best by far.

Bon nuit!

Colin Glassar
163 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:40:29
Oh, and a stonewall pen for Southampton, and the Mane rec card was laughable, as is Lee Mason. We should import some decent refs into this country.
Tony Abrahams
164 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:41:26
I've just got in and jumped to the last. Thank you Lukaku, for your double edged sword! I know you have aspirations to get to the pinnacle kid, but do you think you will hear a better celebration, than you heard today, if you do???

Thanks again Romelu, you awakened a powerful force, With your brilliant desire today!!!?,!!!

Richard Dodd
165 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:48:28
Just back from a sombre Freshy full of RS fans not keen to engage.

Lovely to see some long absent Evertonians making an appearance and all agreed it was the most poignant game of Roberto's reign. I opined that not many Moyes games matched it for intensity and fantastic goals either...

And the referring was quite outstanding as well!

David Hallwood
166 Posted 12/03/2016 at 23:55:01
Ta for that Dave(#156) and BTW its on iplayer for any of our oversees blues. Two points; Delboy was stripped all ready to come on just before the goal, and Lennon & Coleman were in great positions if Cortois had got a hand to Rom's 1st.

Is there another sport and is there another team where you go from utterly pissed off to tap dancing mode in the space of a week.

Who do you want in the semis- bring 'em all on on our day we can beat anyone.

Derek Thomas
167 Posted 12/03/2016 at 00:04:15
When we get it right, we get it very very right!
Jamie Crowley
168 Posted 12/03/2016 at 00:09:08
Oliver -

Roberto got it spot on today. Usually, when something like that happens, even the most ardent Roberto "bashers" who are marginally level-headed would say...

Well done Roberto!

And so many people who have been very, very critical of Roberto have said "well done" based upon today's performance. One editor actually springs to mind...

See, that's definable objectivity Oliver. And I for one appreciate that. Ergo, why I pompously called for that shout out.

I'm glad you're happy we're in the hat next round. I am too.

Dan Davies
169 Posted 13/03/2016 at 00:22:20
It's a grand old team to play for.....!
Jamie Crowley
170 Posted 13/03/2016 at 00:26:31
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1QstT6AfYI

You gotta be fucking kidding me, right?

God it's just beautiful.

Don Alexander
172 Posted 13/03/2016 at 00:36:27
Rom's first goal was stupendous and his second was to say the least clinical. Although I'm no fan of Shearer, and he rates Rom highly, I just wish Rom, and Ross in particular, can add what Shearer calls "anger" to their game. If we want to get to the top, like Leicester this year, we'll need "anger" as a given from 1-11 (and the bench), from mid August to mid May.

Here's hoping for next year but, yes, a Cup win would be fantastic......unless it helps preserve Martinez at the club. Two years of determined ignorance of football reality in pursuit of his seven-year idiotic fantasy is one year too many, never mind two.

The crowd were also stupendous. God knows what we'll sound like when we regularly start ripping the opposition a new one.

I hope Mr Moshiri is now both confident and excited. I am.

Nigel Gregson
174 Posted 13/03/2016 at 00:58:55
Jamie I'm with you. This clueless manager just beat a team still valued at about 10x the Everton team and a manager like Gus Hiddink. Chealea's way is the impatient way and hence we get players like Lukaku who are afforded the opportunity to learn - but not if the majority on here would have it.
Colin Gee
178 Posted 13/03/2016 at 01:25:31
The Grand Old Lady was bouncing tonight. That's was a proper Everton performance.
Was I the only thinking that when we went 2-0 up that surely we couldn't fuck it up again for the second Saturday in a row?

Limbs everywhere in the Lower Gwladys when both goals went in, getting hugs of random Evertonians. You can't beat it!

Dennis Ng
179 Posted 13/03/2016 at 01:27:43
Good win, clean sheet. Next team please.

Before Rom got the first goal, I was not convinced anyone will win, but when he cut in from the left side with the ball and the left back trying to cling on to his life, that was it, that was his chance, and he took it well. The next goal was a bit lucky IMO, but good that Barkley and Rom kept on playing on despite a possible foul and offside. In both plays, both Lukaku and Barkley came alive in a game I thought the two were mediocre otherwise.

It was a much more physical game we played than many other games I've seen. Hopefully that fight lasts all the way to the final. The word used by the commentators was "cagey". I feel it's more "fight" especially given how costa likes to play. That early yellow definitely helped us quiet him down a lot.

Graham Mockford
180 Posted 13/03/2016 at 01:32:16
Jamie Crowley

What I find a bit strange is that on a day when all Evertonians are feeling fucking great you want to cause a row and antagonise your fellow Blues.

I have some sympathy with your view that Martinez has taken some unjustified stick on here. Posters point to his league record this year, and we all know it should be better given the stupid number of points we have given away. But our Cup record is pretty good W8 D1 L1. Our combined goal difference this year in all games is +26. Let me just say that again, in all games we have out scored our opposition by 26 goals.

But give it a rest, enjoy the day and when we raise the Cup in May feel free to come back and say 'I told you so', if that's how you like to celebrate a win.

Dennis Ng
181 Posted 13/03/2016 at 01:36:33
Graham, quite right. Pro or anti, fans are fans, no better no worse. One upping might be fun but the only good that will come out of anything is if and when the team wins. That's what counts. Today is a good day for everyone related to EFC.
John Daley
182 Posted 13/03/2016 at 01:40:49
Jamie,

You're revelling a bit with this one?

We've all had a good night. We've going to Wembley (twice we hope). Everton are in the semi-final. That's enough to have any of us celebrating, irrespective of our views on the manager, his past performance or future prospects.

For the vast majority of us, the only thing of any importance is the fortunes of the club we follow. The guy at the top could be a talking turd in a toilet paper tux and cardboard tube top hat for all we care, as long as he's bobbing up and down in victory more often than he's stinking the gaff out.

I don't get the rush after every single game in which the team get the job done to declare it as one in the eye for those Evertonians who have had to sit and suffer through some utter dross this season and understandably voiced their displeasure at the situation. Like they're going to be disappointed with Everton actually fucking winning because they don't get to have a dig at the manager? Nah, not having that.

Jamie Crowley
183 Posted 13/03/2016 at 01:43:27
Graham and Denis -

Point taken.

Dennis Ng
184 Posted 13/03/2016 at 01:43:55
Funny thing. Semis will be played same weekend as our Palace game. Please let us get Palace since they are in a worse form than we are LOL
Dennis Ng
186 Posted 13/03/2016 at 02:03:00
Well Jamie, lucky I didn’t know how to get to the live forum. I did have to listen to some pretty lame commentators who didn’t know Moshiri who is RIGHT beside BK.
Alex Moore
187 Posted 13/03/2016 at 02:23:59
Does anyone really believe we'll be able to keep Lukaku at Everton?
Ernie Baywood
188 Posted 13/03/2016 at 02:49:51
I might just add something on young Ross. He gets stick for not going into tackles.

That squawka site lists him as having won more 'duels' than he loses. So he doesn't lose every challenge, he just prefers to come out with the ball rather than win the challenge.

And in this game. For the first goal the crowd was audibly unhappy that he didn't go into the challenge against Mikel. Yet it was that decision that took him away from Mikel and meant he was in that perfect position ahead of their midfield when Barry got the ball. The pass to Rom was smart if nothing special.

Second goal. Mikel marking him again and he drops off the back of him. Mikel again gets sucked into chasing down Barry, who forces it to Ross in that perfect position once again. The pass was nothing special again but it's the position he finds that makes the chances.

Ross got slated on the live forum and has fared not much better here. But he was in a one-on-one contest with Mikel tonight. Tell me who won?

Matt Traynor
189 Posted 13/03/2016 at 02:54:46
Alex #187, in the build up to the game, on Absolute Radio, they threw a new one into the mix. Apparently Chelsea are preparing a bid to buy him back in the summer.

That's right - the club that hasn't got a confirmed manager right now.

If Lukaku wants to go, he'll go. We'll make a profit, and the normal order will be restored. However, one thing the TV money has done in the EPL is make the top 4 more competitive. Right now Chelsea look like they won't be getting CL football next season. Man City might miss out also. If these players are so desperate for CL football, then Rom will move abroad. If he wants to stay and bide his time, he's at the right place.

Alex Moore
190 Posted 13/03/2016 at 03:11:25
Matt #187 thanks for the insight mate.
Peter Barry
191 Posted 13/03/2016 at 03:48:27
As pleased as I am, like all Evertonians must be, with the result... but 'one swallow does not a summer make' and, in his three seasons in charge, Roberto has kept us in interminable winter with dross.
Victor Jones
192 Posted 13/03/2016 at 04:04:09
That’s the Everton team that I have been calling out for Martinez to select for the most of this season. (No knee jerk calling for Mirallas or Delofleu to play).Or Stones.... Joel in goal.(playing well). The back four looked solid. Our midfield looked strong and balanced. Lennon is playing out of his skin. How people ever doubted his ability, I will never understand. Barkley looks assured. And what can you say about Lukaku. For a change, his goals have actually made the difference. And I think that he can only get better. This whole Everton team can only get better. Oviedo and Besic coming in also, can only strengthen the team. The rest have work to do, to trouble this current set up.

Credit to Martinez today. He masterminded a win over Chelsea. It would be churlish of me to knock the manager for that. Let’s see if he can resist a tinker next week. I half expect Lennon to be dropped. Or maybe Funes Mori. Martinez usually cannot resist ringing a few needless changes. Let’s see if he can actually get this team over the 40 points mark. At least make our league position look more respectable.

Anyhow, that was great yesterday. That’s all I ask for. Everton to put it up to the so called better premier league teams. We now have the beating of Chelsea. Let’s now put it up to Arsenal.

Just two more wins, in this years FA cup. Two more bloody wins. And no goals conceded yet. Shades of 1966.. Is our name earmarked for this year's cup???

Up the Toffees.

Paul Columb
193 Posted 13/03/2016 at 04:23:07
Haven't read any of the above comments as of yet. Made up with the result and with the team's performance overall. Dunno how many of my thoughts have been echoed above, but here's how I read it.

To a man, a great performance but I've got to say Ross was passenger. Would not select him for the upcoming games and would be tempted to put Cleverly central and play Del left. Ross simply doesn't know how to press and position. Huge talent but too much of a luxury to take a starting place. Dunno what his future is really in terms of position/role.

Roberto's subs continue to baffle me....today included. No logic in my eyes and until the 89th min hit the clock I was shitting it. Otherwise, initial shape and tactics were just what was apparently needed. I really wish there was a consistency evident for Ross, his role and development. Love having a born bluenose in the side but want him to be directed to live up the the role.

Lukaku must be made up with his brace and hope he remains at the club next season. Really glad Moshiri's first official game was today. I see bright dawns for EFC. I was lucky enough to have seen them lift our last title and finally see a possibility of living through another. Hats off to RM for the the assembled squad. As a manager however, I'm less complimentary.....not the day for that....a deserved victory for him today.

Great day to be a blue. Oh to have been on the Street End..........

Mike Gaynes
194 Posted 13/03/2016 at 05:18:05
Hey Paul, good call on Barkley, but he was also the middleman on both goals and got a deserved assist on #2. I would have taken him off right then for Besic, but full marks to Roberto for his Moyes-like plan and getting the guys out for blood. We seemed to win every loose ball and every tackle, and when you hold Chelski without a shot on goal from open play (Joel's only save was from a free kick), you're doing the business.

Rom's first goal was the best I've seen from an Everton player since a 16-year-old Rooney's screamer beat Arsenal. And it made me as emotional as Oviedo's winner at Old Trafford. What a great day.

John Maxwell
195 Posted 13/03/2016 at 06:33:28
The Lower Gwladys went mental for the first goal, great to watch it on TV at 5am here.

Goodison Park look amazing last night, good write up on the BBC site if anyone has read it?

Maybe we should start calling it the MOSH PIT as well as the Bear Pit.

Good times ahead.

Steve Brown
196 Posted 13/03/2016 at 07:49:54
Amazingly, Rom has taken some stick on here over the last three years. Why is beyond me.

He is a 22-year-old kid, saddled with a £28million transfer fee who is still developing his game. The transfer fee was paid mainly for what he will become – not what he was when we signed him. Like all young players, he needs more consistency and technically he has some work to do... but wow, what a player he will become if he keeps developing. His goal scoring record in the top flight is superb.

I also like his personality – he continually talks about winning and improving. Of course, we may lose him one day. But my guess is that he has added a good £20-30 million to his value this season. We have not had a striker like him since the 80s in my opinion. So let’s back him.

Paul Ward
197 Posted 13/03/2016 at 08:11:43
Like most blues on here today I am very happy and applaud the team and manager for getting it right. It was made possible by a magnificent individual goal that merited a trip to Wembley on its own. Having watched the blues for 63 years I would find it hard to remember a better goal as already stated by (Trevor Lynes 115)
Apart from the childish banter about acknowledging the manager's part in the win, I was surprised to see very few comments about Cleverley's fine performance.
Les Martin
198 Posted 13/03/2016 at 08:37:02
It very easy to get the best out of Rom, you get Barkley or a similar player to find the right pass and therefore utilise his strengths; we did that superbly today.

We should revel in this time because there is no guarantee that Rom will be with us next season. No doubt his agent will architect a big money move and take his cut, but maybe the player will give us another season to see how we go?

Let's do the job and win the cup.

Paul Mackay
199 Posted 13/03/2016 at 08:40:23
Did anyone see that Martinez was about to introduce Delefeou before our first goal. I actually thought that he had left it quite late in the game, presumably petrified to make another poor substitution (like taking Lennon off) given his recent history of taking our best player off midway through the second half.
Having then told Deulefeou that he wasn't coming on he elected to bring a defence minded Stones on instead, later followed by Besic.
These decisions might all seem rather obvious to the rest of us but given some of Martinez subs this season I think he finally got it right. A rather basic lesson learnt?...
Dave Abrahams
200 Posted 13/03/2016 at 09:17:10
Never mind all the arguments about the players and the manager, let’s all just remember what a fantastic day it was yesterday for every Evertonian who was there and every Bluenose who watched it on TV or listened on the radio; one to savour in years to come.

For me, it was brilliant, four generations sitting next to each other: me, my son, grandson and great grandson, all enjoying the match and the singing at the end with my little great grandson Alfie dancing his legs off to all the Everton songs being blared out at the end.

Hope it’s like this at Wembley (TWICE!)...

Ernie Baywood
201 Posted 13/03/2016 at 09:30:30
Nice one Dave. Everton is my only regret from emigrating... my Dad and kids are missing out on these historic family moments. I never got the four generations at the old ground. To get three will be a highlight for me.
Tom Evans
202 Posted 13/03/2016 at 10:08:32
I was positively deafened by the noise in the lower Gwladys last evening. Brought back so many memories of days gone by. What an atmosphere and what a night to show the new guy what potential there is on offer.

Onwards and upwards COYB.

Paul Conway
203 Posted 13/03/2016 at 10:09:37
Costa may have attempted to bite Barry, but Karma came back to bite Costa on the arse, remembering last season's 3-6 defeat by Chelsea when Costa could do nothing wrong. How he goaded famous Seamus after he had put the ball into his own net!

Oh how I prayed for this moment! Remember, don't fuck with people as you rise! You just might cross them in your demise!! Yeeeesssssss!!!

Brent Stephens
204 Posted 13/03/2016 at 10:21:20
#191 "As pleased as I am, like all Evertonians must be, with the result... but ’one swallow does not a summer make’ and, in his three seasons in charge, Roberto has kept us in interminable winter with dross."

Some just can’t posting anything without negativity in it. Sad.

Graham Mockford
205 Posted 13/03/2016 at 10:35:13
Dave #200

Great stuff, that's what is all about.

Brent #204

We are talking about Peter "Sunshine" Barry!

Just had a horrible thought. We now have two away games to rearrange and a third after the semi final weekend. That leaves six midweek slots to rearrange the Derby game. Assuming the RS qualify for the next round that only leaves three. The two weeks either side of Easter and you've guessed it, the week before the Semi.

What's the betting we know when it is going to be.

Ray Robinson
206 Posted 13/03/2016 at 10:36:23
Well I’m no great fan of Martinez but, credit where credit’s due, he got just about everything right last night. So well done Roberto!

Thought the team and the crowd were awesome. The atmosphere was up there with the best I’ve experienced in 55 years of following the Blues. As people have stated, what an night for Mr. Moshiri to sample what it means to be an Evertonian! I doubt whether he’s experienced anything like that at the Emirates and I’ll bet he’s been well and truly bitten by the bug.

By the way, did Rom’s magnificent goal bring any memories of Beckford’s stunner in the last game of the season – against Chelsea!!

Oliver Molloy
207 Posted 13/03/2016 at 10:39:48
Jamie 185,

"Brainless dross hurled at the team", "Wrist-slitters" that you feel you have to have a dig at.

Because people see stuff with the team and manager that you don’t, and have a different view – really? It's a bit over the top...
Why then, you ask is it not okay to have a sarcastic dig back at the non Roberto clan... maybe because it's stupid! Brainless dross.....

Is celebrating a goal with your friend in a pub with two different whiskey drinks because a former Celtic player crossed the ball to a former Rangers player who scored for Everton. Remember bringing that "brainless dross" up on here.

Wrist-slitting is the amount of your fellow country men and women backing Trump. This is not about an election, this is about the IQ of America sums it up.

Oh, I know in general it is an American thing but please do not tell me what I should be doing or saying as an Everton fan because Martinez wins a football game.

Ray Roche
208 Posted 13/03/2016 at 10:48:18
Well, I missed the match. To say I was pissed off is something of an understatement but when you’re taking a 92-year-old D-Day veteran out for a family meal arranged before the dates for the match were made... some things just can’t be changed.

Saw it on TV though and I’m surprised to hear about the atmosphere because it didn’t sound that loud on TV. Was it really that good?

Brilliant result!

Tony Hill
209 Posted 13/03/2016 at 11:36:49
Ray (#208), the atmosphere was stunning after the goals but also at the start. There was a bit of a lull halfway through but you could sense it in the air that everyone was up for it. People say it doesn’t come through on the telly – I wonder if they muffle it or the microphones are nearer the away fans or something? Anyway your day sounds fantastic too.

It was fitting on such a night that Mike Lyons was honoured at half-time in a little ceremony reflecting his great contribution to the club. He lives in Australia now, but there was man who put himself on the line for us every time.

Dave Abrahams
210 Posted 13/03/2016 at 11:37:04
Ray (208) you did the right thing, as you know, good on you.

As for the the atmosphere on TV, Chelsea fans took nearly two-thirds of the Bullens Road stand and that is where the TV cameras where. The Chelsea fans were at their loudest during a penalty shoot-out at half time, their supporters won the shoot out.

As others have said, the Everton fans roared and roared their heads off and helped in no short measure to help their team to victory. We were awesome to repeat another Everton fan on here, sorry you missed it, your voice will be stronger at Wembley, mines gone for a couple of days.

Martin Nicholls
211 Posted 13/03/2016 at 12:10:40
Brilliant win and great atmosphere. Agree all the plaudits heaped on the players, manager and referee whose only blemish was failure to book Kenedy. T

o the guy who sits behind me in TB3 constantly complaining, do you still think Rom is a "fucking big lazy bastard"? Support your team man!

Anyone think Costa should publicly thank Barry for not playacting as he undoubtedly would have done had their roles been reversed?

Raymond Fox
212 Posted 13/03/2016 at 12:12:51
Keep it up Jamie, you are correct to say that Roberto has received way too much criticism.

I think that some fans are so engaged and fanatical that, when we lose, the balloon goes up. I’m not knocking fans that love the club so much, but I do think it leads to over-the-top reactions to the loss.

I also think it's rich that when a rare (on here) Martinez supporter makes pro comments, he is jumped upon for doing so.

Okay, Jamie’s posts were a little over-the-top, but hey ho we have read Martinez slated up hill and down dale, when the guys on the field have got off virtually scot free.

Eddie Dunn
213 Posted 13/03/2016 at 12:16:41
I imagine that the presence of our new owner would have been enough for Martinez and his team to concentrate properly and put in a shift. Chelsea took the game to us, which helped us play a little more like our away form.

Credit to Martinez in navigating us through a difficult match, and a special mention to Baines, who brought some real verve to our left side. We have missed his influence.

Lukaku is capable of not only great strength, but fine balance and wonderful skill. His determination to succeed will see him become the world’s best striker. If we win the Cup, he might just decide to stay.

Ernie Baywood
216 Posted 13/03/2016 at 12:39:05
Martin Nicholls. I'm told (on this very thread) that it's acceptable and it's just the emotion of the game. Like I don't understand the emotion of watching the blues.

And I still call bollocks. If you spend 90 minutes slating a player regardless of what they do or what the score is, you're an attention seeker at best.

John Daley
217 Posted 13/03/2016 at 13:15:43
"Mountains out of molehills springs to mind."

Jamie,

You could say the same about a single victory meriting people wiping an entire season's worth of egg off their face.

As I said last night, it’s not (or at least shouldn’t be) a story of two camps: those who rate Roberto and those who don’t. It’s Everton we’re all here for. We’re through to a semi-final. Everyone was delighted with the result and what they witnessed. People on here were singing from the same hymn sheet for one of the few rare occasions this season. So, why the urge to unnecessarily sour the post-match glow of a great night under the Goodison lights by attempting to turn it into a case of ’suck on that’ point-scoring?

If Roberto starts bringing us more results like last night then the moans will die down. If he doesn’t they’ll persist and in all probability grow louder. Pretty fucking simple. No need to turn it into some sort of personal crusade with a holy grail of getting to say ’Hey gobshites, I was right’.

"I also think its rich that when a rare (on here) Martinez supporter makes pro comments he is jumped upon for doing so."

Except that’s not why he got a rise out of people, is it, Raymond? No one would have had a problem with Jamie simply praising the manager for pulling off a great result. In fact, people who have previously been harsh critics were already saying as much and giving him credit without the need for prompting and being ’called out’.

It’s not fucking ’rich’ at all. It’s a simple failure to comprehend why someone would choose the stage of a fantastic night for the club, the team, the manager and the fans to try and claim the moral high ground and act like the result is somehow secondary to all the ’this strengthens my stance on Roberto’ shite.

Andrew Cunningham
218 Posted 13/03/2016 at 13:16:58
Re Raymond Fox. Not having a go but your comments after a handsome win are fine... but, after that diabolical collapse against the Hammers, I am not so sure.
Gary Russell
219 Posted 13/03/2016 at 13:24:32
Curious why Rom stayed down on the ground for quite a while after he scored. My take is he got caught up in the emotion of scoring such a fine goal.
John Hughes
220 Posted 13/03/2016 at 13:29:59
Ernie (#188) you are spot-on about Ross Barkley's contribution to both goals, the bloke by me is slagging him off before every game but he actually made no comment after either goal so I took it that Ross did the right thing! By the wa, he give me a kiss when we scored, so he can’t be all that bad of a bloke!

COYB

Dennis Ng
221 Posted 13/03/2016 at 13:38:14
Ernie, good points. I'm always confused by that statistic because I was hoping Barkley would press more and win the ball higher up the field. Given the defensive nature of this game, I guess he had bigger fish to fry.

Matt, I'm hoping city win the UCL, however unlikely. That way, Guardiola leaves Bayern without a UCL and comes into another team that already won the UCL before he came. Just for the irony. Also, agree on Rom staying/leaving. He's at the right place.

Eddie Dunn
223 Posted 13/03/2016 at 13:50:02
Gary (#219), I think Rom looked up to the heavens and dedicated it to his friend, who passed away, like he has before.
Gary Russell
224 Posted 13/03/2016 at 14:26:25
Yeah Eddie, I thought that too and also maybe overwhelmed by what he had just done. According to this I found online, he is sitting pretty high up and still has a couple of months to go until he turns 23.

Lukaku club goals before age of 23 vs selected others

Ronaldo – 194
Raul – 145
Lionel Messi – 127
Sergio Aguero – 124
Romelu Lukaku (with two months remaining) – 119
Michael Owen – 111
Cristiano Ronaldo – 97
Fernando Torres – 87
Wayne Rooney – 94
Luis Suarez – 77
David Villa – 70
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 69
Alan Shearer – 65
Thierry Henry – 57

Terry McLavey
226 Posted 13/03/2016 at 15:23:13
Had to watch the recorded match this morning without knowing the score, as I was at the Ballet! No comments please (wife is a professional dancer).

The neighbours' peaceful Sunday morning punctuated by Two loud "Yes , Fuckin’ Yes!" Great show, always proud to be a Blue but now more than ever!

Costa is an animal like Suarez, great talents overshadowed by a horrible streak. Perhaps Barry wanted a match off? How stupid can people be?

Good show by team and fans for the new shareholder, that smile was genuine!

Mike Gaynes
227 Posted 13/03/2016 at 15:28:28
Our picture just got even brighter with Watford shocking Arsenal. Can't wait for the draw.
Gavin Johnson
230 Posted 13/03/2016 at 16:49:23
Just got home and seen the Watford result. Absolutely fantastic news. Arsenal were the one team I feared we’d draw. I don’t see why there’s any reason why we can’t go all the way and win it now. :)
Ray Roche
231 Posted 13/03/2016 at 17:03:32
Tony#209, Dave#210

Thanks for the update, lads, sounds like I missed a belter!

And the question regarding Costa, yes, the snide SHOULD thank Barry, any other clubs team member, and particularly that scruffy shit, would have been rolling around in agony. Aren’t we all glad that Everton targeted Costa last night? I am....

Paul Tran
232 Posted 13/03/2016 at 17:49:20
What a wonderful mix of desire, intensity and resolve, with a hint of nastiness! Didn’t think they had it in them, now let’s do it in all games. That should be the yardstick from now on.

Martinez and the team owed us a strong performance and a win – they gave us a cracker.

I’d loved to have been there, but I’ll settle for two more dances round my living room.

All I want in two more wins, both at Wembley.

Martin Mason
234 Posted 13/03/2016 at 20:11:16
Martinez and the team got it right. Martinez and Barkley were exceptional. A thoroughly professional performance against a very strong Chelsea team.

It doesn’t matter what happened before Saturday, if we can reproduce more performances like this then we can be a great side. The disaster that is RM’s Everton though is that we could lose from 2-0 up next week but we can live in hope that this new start is the real thing.

Please don’t let us see any more total crap about Lukaku being lazy and having no control. The guy is almost unplayable and remember that RM’s strategy is to leave him isolated. He would score 40 a season at Barcelona.

Peter Mills
236 Posted 13/03/2016 at 21:03:56
Ray #208, yes it was a great atmosphere, you would have enjoyed it... but what you were doing was more important?
Gerry McDonnell
237 Posted 13/03/2016 at 22:05:26
Barry tamed the animal very well and the closing down so quickly all over the pitch was a joy to behold, let us hope this is here to stay. All connected to the team and club were fantastic.

With the gooners now goners what about a Wembley re-run of ’84 when Elton sang "I guess thats why they call them the BLUES". COYB.

Ernie Baywood
238 Posted 13/03/2016 at 22:48:08
Barry's gone for two isn't he? Arsenal and Man Utd. Disappointing that we won't have our midfield leader in the guts but a great opportunity to see Besic and McCarthy together. That's surely more likely to be next season's partnership.
Don Alexander
239 Posted 14/03/2016 at 13:32:25
Ernie, the measure of the best teams is that when the midfield leader is unavailable some other bugger steps up to the plate to do the things said leader does. To me that’s Besic but it’s asking a helluva lot of him or any one player to completely cover the loss. I’d like to think all the midfield players would be keen to up their game.

Unfortunately I don’t buy into the notion that Ross can be excused any responsibility at all for actual tackling, leaving the likes of Barry to do it all. Behaviour like that can give the opposition a lift. Good as he is, and good’s the word, not great, yet, there’d be a queue of Europe’s top clubs beating a path to the door if he would just sometimes work his bollocks off to get a tackle in. He did it once against Villa and even the once gave me hope, but against Chelsea he reverted to type. It’s such a shame.

And before people accuse me of slagging him off, I think of it as constructive criticism. In offensive mode he can hit the heights but to become great he has to do it more often than he’s done thus far, and he is 22, not a kid anymore.

Brian Denton
240 Posted 14/03/2016 at 14:36:32
Michael, although it is strictly accurate, I don’t like the headline for this article. I would prefer "Brilliant Lukaku brace takes Everton to the Semi-Finals".

It’s only since the money-grubbing bastards at the FA started playing the Semis at Wembley that "getting to Wembley" didn’t mean you’d got to the Final. But for those of us of a certain vintage, "Getting to Wembley" sets the pulse racing!

Andy Crooks
241 Posted 14/03/2016 at 18:15:34
Great show from team and coach. These are nights to be cherished. I think Lukaku’s first goal was the best Everton goal since Osman in the Europa League.

It would be churlish to add anything negative. This is what we can do. If our new owner can keep the squad then there are good times ahead. We all want the same so why on earth would anyone want to gloat.


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