The Mail Bag
There to win it!
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I'm a big fan of David Moyes, but tonight he has to take the blame for an atrocious performance. The first half settling to see what's what I can understand, but before Lisbon scored they had had 12 shots on goal and Everton 1!!
Then suddenly after the goal, Everton start attacking and making chances - why didn't they play attacking football from the start?
Against Man United: attacking attitude = win, and even Moyes said it himself after the match; tonight: defensive rubbish = defeat.
Poor approach, poor play. Over to you DM...
Rupert Sullivan, Posted 25/02/2010 at 19:00:34
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Everyone knew Moyes would set his stall out like this, why should we be surprised, utter rubbish.
Whatever the rights and wrongs of Moyes’ tactics, no one can excuse the players performance tonight. Basic skills- passing, trapping the ball completely absent. No tactics can cater for that
Moyes and the lads can take all the deserved plaudits for Chelsea/Man Utd but they take all the shite for tonight
No leaders, Tactics and No ideas
Im totally lost for words after this game
We looked defensive from the first minute and deserved nothing
Apart from Jags i defy anyone to give a positive slant on tonight
It was truly embarassing
No leaders, Tactics and No ideas
Im totally lost for words after this game
We looked defensive from the first minute and deserved nothing
Apart from Jags i defy anyone to give a positive slant on tonight
It was truly embarassing
Poor poor poor. Only Everton. Tactically clueless allowing Lisbon to gain in confidence and for ours to slip away. The only plus is I don’t have to listen to the inane blatherings of Ratcliffe on Five.
Absolutely spot on Rupert. He thought he could coast through the game,offering zilch going forward,criminally forgetting that this particular season,our defence regularly concedes goals.
0-0 was never going to happen.
Crushed..
0-0 was never going to happen.
Crushed..
Simple stuff:
Senderos = Atrocious
Yobo = Awful
Bily = Atrocious
Moyes = Should have changed it much earlier as Billy was fucking woeful throughout the game. That was by far his worst performance and that’s saying something. Senderos, I hope we cancel his contract he was out of this world shit. Yobo, time to sell regardless of his fitness. At least Jags showed a bit of promise after almost a year out.
Moyes got it wrong, Everton were terrible. It doesn’t take anything away from the other recent performances but my God that was fucking terrible.
Senderos = Atrocious
Yobo = Awful
Bily = Atrocious
Moyes = Should have changed it much earlier as Billy was fucking woeful throughout the game. That was by far his worst performance and that’s saying something. Senderos, I hope we cancel his contract he was out of this world shit. Yobo, time to sell regardless of his fitness. At least Jags showed a bit of promise after almost a year out.
Moyes got it wrong, Everton were terrible. It doesn’t take anything away from the other recent performances but my God that was fucking terrible.
What a croc of crap!
Calm Calm down. Yes its disappointing to loose but it was always going to be an uphill struggle from the 1st leg after their away goal.
I don’t believe we have a team/squad equipped for the latter stages of Europe. Same thing happened two years ago against Fiorentina. You always need that extra bit of quality to go through the later rounds.
Still chin up, we beat Chelsea and Man.Utd. Hopefully 3 more points againts spurs on sunday. COYB!!!
I don’t believe we have a team/squad equipped for the latter stages of Europe. Same thing happened two years ago against Fiorentina. You always need that extra bit of quality to go through the later rounds.
Still chin up, we beat Chelsea and Man.Utd. Hopefully 3 more points againts spurs on sunday. COYB!!!
Moyes’s fault 100%. Dour, negative, useless.
For me, he’s reached his pinnacle. I wanted him out in November because, whilst he is a great manager for a side fighting for their lives or needing to improve, he’s never, ever going to take us on another level because he just doesn’t have the mentality.
Tonight was a case in point. What he did tactically tonight was suicidal.
We need an overhaul in the summer. Moyes has done brilliantly to take us to the level he has, and he’s the best manager we’ve had since Kendall - but there’s no more he can do here.
The players aren’t blameless - in particular, Neville and Billy who were utter wank - but it was clear that they players were lost due to a policy of staying deep and hitting the one man up top. That is entirely down to Moyes.
The sad thing is, he’ll still be here in the summer. Next year, we’ll finish around 8th again. And the year after that. There’s literally no point to being an Evertonian, because we’re not going to win anything, yet we’re not going to struggle.
I don’t know whats best - keep Moyes and stay mediocre until by some miracle we find a billionaire to push us on? Or make a change and gamble?
All I know is I am so, so bored of false dawns under Moyes. Everytime you get a bit excited, the Scottish git kicks you back in your place.
So disappointed. Tonight was a real kick in the gut.
For me, he’s reached his pinnacle. I wanted him out in November because, whilst he is a great manager for a side fighting for their lives or needing to improve, he’s never, ever going to take us on another level because he just doesn’t have the mentality.
Tonight was a case in point. What he did tactically tonight was suicidal.
We need an overhaul in the summer. Moyes has done brilliantly to take us to the level he has, and he’s the best manager we’ve had since Kendall - but there’s no more he can do here.
The players aren’t blameless - in particular, Neville and Billy who were utter wank - but it was clear that they players were lost due to a policy of staying deep and hitting the one man up top. That is entirely down to Moyes.
The sad thing is, he’ll still be here in the summer. Next year, we’ll finish around 8th again. And the year after that. There’s literally no point to being an Evertonian, because we’re not going to win anything, yet we’re not going to struggle.
I don’t know whats best - keep Moyes and stay mediocre until by some miracle we find a billionaire to push us on? Or make a change and gamble?
All I know is I am so, so bored of false dawns under Moyes. Everytime you get a bit excited, the Scottish git kicks you back in your place.
So disappointed. Tonight was a real kick in the gut.
The Problem is that this isn’t the first time we have totally fucked up in Europe. We simply do not learn from our mistakes. Sporting are a very poor team to go out to.
A lot will be made of the negative tactics deployed but to be fair to Moyes he didn’t have a lot on offer. Yakubu is totally ineffective should be got rid of at the earliest oppotunity. Anichebe or Coleman should have been the way to go.
Neville was his usual useless self! I really hope he keeps his stupid mouth shut from now on. Didn’t seem to give any leadership tonight so what fucking use is he!?
Embarrassed in Europe again under Moyes is the bottom line. Really disappointing to see Fulham pull off such a great result on the same night.
A lot will be made of the negative tactics deployed but to be fair to Moyes he didn’t have a lot on offer. Yakubu is totally ineffective should be got rid of at the earliest oppotunity. Anichebe or Coleman should have been the way to go.
Neville was his usual useless self! I really hope he keeps his stupid mouth shut from now on. Didn’t seem to give any leadership tonight so what fucking use is he!?
Embarrassed in Europe again under Moyes is the bottom line. Really disappointing to see Fulham pull off such a great result on the same night.
Fuckin shite, we were never in it, first shot on goal after 60 minutes says it all, typical Everton not taking that extra step again and absolutely no fucking plan B as usual.
We couldn’t get hold of the ball in the first so what do we do, get one of our better ball players in Osman to follow moutinho round like a lost soul and get dragged out of the game, well fucking done Moyes.
We couldn’t get hold of the ball in the first so what do we do, get one of our better ball players in Osman to follow moutinho round like a lost soul and get dragged out of the game, well fucking done Moyes.
Alan I agree, I won’t get that hour of my life back.
I said on here last night; we should always keep our feet firmly on the ground, especially supporting Everton, were perhaps the only Club who can raise you so high and bring you down so fast in such a short time.
I did originally say that Spurs would bring us back down to earth at the weekend, looks like Sporting have done it already.
Why can’t we ever bow out gracefully in Europe?? when we get beat it always seems to be an embarassing scoreline instead of a slender defeat
First Bucharest in 2005 then Benfica made a complete show of us, once again on National TV and now 3-0 to a side who, before tonight, had not won in 7 games. Teams on bad runs must pray for Everton to come along - we always help the cause.
I said on here last night; we should always keep our feet firmly on the ground, especially supporting Everton, were perhaps the only Club who can raise you so high and bring you down so fast in such a short time.
I did originally say that Spurs would bring us back down to earth at the weekend, looks like Sporting have done it already.
Why can’t we ever bow out gracefully in Europe?? when we get beat it always seems to be an embarassing scoreline instead of a slender defeat
First Bucharest in 2005 then Benfica made a complete show of us, once again on National TV and now 3-0 to a side who, before tonight, had not won in 7 games. Teams on bad runs must pray for Everton to come along - we always help the cause.
Utter, utter shite, Ive enjoyed our recent wins and good form but tonight is a reality check, AGAIN!
However well we played at times in the first leg, we got what we deserved tonight and we have to face facts we simply are not good enough.
Fucking heartbreaking
However well we played at times in the first leg, we got what we deserved tonight and we have to face facts we simply are not good enough.
Fucking heartbreaking
All of you that have been getting carried away over the last few weeks need a reality check, And tonight we all got one. The bottom line is this, We are a decent top ten premier league club and no more. We looked an ordinary side tonight, no ideas when it came to attacking, very poor in midfield and very very poor in defence. I don't no why I'm writing this as I'm so pissed off. We were crap!!
We are rubbish, simple as that. As some of you know I'm the Portuguese die hard Evertonian. I was ashamed of EFC today. I have been defending EFC with my fellow Portuguese mates, Big Five, great club....After 5 with Benfica and now 3 with Sporting!
With Sporting, for Christ sake, they don't win with anybody.... We were miserable, lack of passion, lack of desire, lack of anything...We are still not ready to play in Europe. I'm simply gutted with these games against Sporting. Poor fellow Evertonians who came again to Lisbon. I'm devastated to be eliminated by these pricks of Sporting...David Moyes don't have a clue about football...and Rodwell??? I dare to say there are thousands of Rodwells around in Portugal...
Sorry for my anger but I'm in total frustration.
Kudos to you, David Moyes. Is it time to admit that playing nil nil tactics will get you nowhere or should we give it another go? I guess latter.
I’m only glad that Jags is back and that he looks hungry. And that’s about it....
COYB!
I’m only glad that Jags is back and that he looks hungry. And that’s about it....
COYB!
Absolute shite - how can you go from saturdays performance to this? In defence the constant change of centre half partnerships in this competition hasnt helped -but I have the feeling our season is now over and with Donovan off very shortly there aint much hope for a European finish
We are far from rubbish but tonight’s performance summed up Moyes’ tenure.
Everytime we have a chance to go for the kill in a cup competition we sit back and try and soak up the pressure. Unfortunately we don’t have the players for it - going forward we are a different proposition.
Under Moyes we’ll make progress in the league but we’ll never win a cup competition.
By the way, Yobo is a fuckin liability, constant long balls and sits on the edge of the box all game. Awful player.
Everytime we have a chance to go for the kill in a cup competition we sit back and try and soak up the pressure. Unfortunately we don’t have the players for it - going forward we are a different proposition.
Under Moyes we’ll make progress in the league but we’ll never win a cup competition.
By the way, Yobo is a fuckin liability, constant long balls and sits on the edge of the box all game. Awful player.
The way Moyes sets up his tactics is so centered on Cahill that is doesn’t even change it when he isn’t there!
Very naive
Very naive
Some of our players are simply not good enough to play in Europe so why do we bother. Combine that with a tactically clueless manager and you get a performance like that tonight. Another season wasted - another where Moyes has won nothing. Will it ever happen under him. No chance - for fucks sake get someone in who knows how to win. And If I read another post that starts ’I am a fan of Moyes but..........’ I shall scream.
Agree with Chris above on Yobo. His passing started off woeful and has got progressively worse. It is liability when he plays
How did Bilyadenov cost ten million quid, he is utter shite and to make things worse he doesn’t even put a shift in, Lazy and slow, over 100 yards I reckon I could outpace him.
One shot on goal sums that game up, will we ever learn, and Neville shut the fuck up ,every one is fed up off your bollocks in the papers.
Senderos looks awfull as well, thank god jags is back
One shot on goal sums that game up, will we ever learn, and Neville shut the fuck up ,every one is fed up off your bollocks in the papers.
Senderos looks awfull as well, thank god jags is back
I reaaly feel for the lads/girls who went out there tonight and got another Lisbon thrashing
If Moyes came out and said "We fucked up tonite and let thousands of folk down" then id respect him
But he wont
Perhaps tonite tells us that Davie is an Excellent/V Good Premiership boss but tactially inept in Europe. You would think he would learn though...
If Moyes came out and said "We fucked up tonite and let thousands of folk down" then id respect him
But he wont
Perhaps tonite tells us that Davie is an Excellent/V Good Premiership boss but tactially inept in Europe. You would think he would learn though...
Come on - it wasnt that bad, we had our chances... erm... I mean... chance......?
what a joke
that defeat was down to Moyes.
he had no intention of playing positive
football.his comment we have come to lisbon to win pathetic.
ONE SHOT ON GOAL.
did he expect us to hold out for 90min
for a 0-0 .how many clean sheets has everton
had this season. not many.i am seething.
GUTTLESS.
that defeat was down to Moyes.
he had no intention of playing positive
football.his comment we have come to lisbon to win pathetic.
ONE SHOT ON GOAL.
did he expect us to hold out for 90min
for a 0-0 .how many clean sheets has everton
had this season. not many.i am seething.
GUTTLESS.
Totally agree with Chris Jones over Moyes, probably always finish 6th, 7th and get to quarters and semi finals, but taking that extra step and actually winning things and breaking the top four, fucking no chance
The fans who travelled all that way should be refunded because that was appalling. I cant believe it. How can Moyes get it so wrong?
Chris Jones
Nail on head
Couldn’t have put any of that any better
Nail on head
Couldn’t have put any of that any better
Moyes seems clueless when it comes to the business end of a competion.Defend?????!!!!!!, Roy Hodgson got it right tonight
I can’t tell you how frustrated I am. I’m sure you all feel the same.
Moyes is great at spotting a player, engendering team spirit and saying the right things off the park BUT we always fail to carry momentum for more than 3 or 4 games.
None of us can second guess why it is - could be his mentality, could be he just gets his tactics wrong, but I think all of us know if they’d attacked them from the first minute the tie would’ve been over by the break.
Moyes is great at spotting a player, engendering team spirit and saying the right things off the park BUT we always fail to carry momentum for more than 3 or 4 games.
None of us can second guess why it is - could be his mentality, could be he just gets his tactics wrong, but I think all of us know if they’d attacked them from the first minute the tie would’ve been over by the break.
Not to change subject, and i watched him as a great player and leader, but the "Rat" really has one on him. I have never heard him compliment a player in blue and begin to wonder has he an agenda or is he simply not Lager-i.e.bitter?
Also, as a paid observer why has nobody told him how to say Jags name properly, he has had 2 seasons of it
Also, as a paid observer why has nobody told him how to say Jags name properly, he has had 2 seasons of it
So much for Moyes and Nevilles pre-game boasts that we were there to win, Neville in particular should shut up these regular disasterous soundbites.
Only positive was the return of Jags, and he did as well as could be expected.
Only positive was the return of Jags, and he did as well as could be expected.
One of the most pityfull performances I’ve ever seen... Ratcliffe was even more shocking than ever. I nearly called the samaritans purely based on his commentary. Someone take him to one side and tell him how to pronounce Jag’s name.
Oh and then the football. What happens to Everton when they come against skill an flair. They play like that. No supprises...!
Oh and then the football. What happens to Everton when they come against skill an flair. They play like that. No supprises...!
When you play not to get beat this is the likeliest outcome. It is his weakness, after 15 mins it was pretty obvious te way th night was going........and while wel ooked tired it’s no exuse.
Tactically got it totally wrong..end of story.............bet wwe don’t deend on sunday...........only bright spark Jags looks like he will be immens once again.
Go to the bottom of the classs Davey!
Tactically got it totally wrong..end of story.............bet wwe don’t deend on sunday...........only bright spark Jags looks like he will be immens once again.
Go to the bottom of the classs Davey!
Unfortunately once again it’s a classic Everton performance.
Moments of quality and a few good results, pre-match talk up a good game, get phil Neville to mentioning winning trophies, then let everybody down with a shocking performance.
Personally, not sure where the blame lies? I sincerely hope we didn’t go out there to shut up shop and grind out a result, cause we all know that was never going to happen, but that’s what it looked like.
We really should’ve gone out in the 1st 20 mins to score and put the game to bed. Gutted.
Moments of quality and a few good results, pre-match talk up a good game, get phil Neville to mentioning winning trophies, then let everybody down with a shocking performance.
Personally, not sure where the blame lies? I sincerely hope we didn’t go out there to shut up shop and grind out a result, cause we all know that was never going to happen, but that’s what it looked like.
We really should’ve gone out in the 1st 20 mins to score and put the game to bed. Gutted.
We really missed Hetinga. The man has been a rock the last 6 weeks, Instead we had Yobo who could not pass to save his life. Then we have Senderos. When I got a text with the team before the match I had my doubts. Roll on Sunday as I’ve never been as depressed after a result.
Extremely disappointing. Senderos was dreadful - looked half fit, slow and clumsy. Bily was a hindrance rather than an asset. We got better after they went off (an obvious call to replace both but one that was made), but then Donovan and Saha visibly tired. Jagielka and Arteta look like they’ll recover from their injuries, but Yakubu doesn’t so we lack options up front. We missed Cahill, Fellaini, Heitinga and Distin from the first choice XI. Howard played well and for the second time in Portugal was MOTM in a poor defeat. Arteta’s excellent mazy run in the 88th minute summed it all up - just nothing offered in support by his colleagues. All far too disjointed.
What did you want Rats to say? He was bored out of his fuckin mind like the rest of us.
I don’t think Yobo could have passed wind tonight....
One tactic that gets right on my tits, is us having everyone back for corners.
There was one tonight that just summed it up for me, the ball was cleared to the half way line from the corner, and there were 2 Sporting players with all the time in the world who picked it up, while we still had everyone back in the box. Why doesn’t he just leave Saha up front?
There was one tonight that just summed it up for me, the ball was cleared to the half way line from the corner, and there were 2 Sporting players with all the time in the world who picked it up, while we still had everyone back in the box. Why doesn’t he just leave Saha up front?
I think thhe criticism of bily is harsh. he’s coming off a fulll russian season and he looks plain shagged in my view, he’s not lazy.
That performance was so crushingly painful after man u and chelsea.
This is the same Sporting Lisbon team who got beaten by Hertha Berlin, rooted to the bottom of the Bundesliga. The fact that we couldn’t muster a shot at goal against them in 68 mins is pretty pathetic.
That performance was so crushingly painful after man u and chelsea.
This is the same Sporting Lisbon team who got beaten by Hertha Berlin, rooted to the bottom of the Bundesliga. The fact that we couldn’t muster a shot at goal against them in 68 mins is pretty pathetic.
Everton has just displayed a totally inexcusable slow moving heap of shit. I would dearly love to know what kind of pre match team talk they were given.
I can not blame Howard for the rest of the teams disgraceful lack of enterprise and effort. In fact, had it not been for some of his marvellous saves we could have had a Benfica style hammering.
As for the rest, from back to front they were absolutely crap.
The entire five man defensive midfield of Arteta, Osman, Donovan, Pienaar and Bily were completely outplayed by what has been described as the worst Sporting side in living history.
It was in the 65th minute before our first shot that was ballooned well over the bar by Pienaar.
A number of times Donavon grabbed the ball for a quick throw and TV close ups showed his absolute frustration at having to wait for Neville to jog or slowly walk 50 yards to take them.
What really irks me is that Nevilles throws are so bloody predictable and only after all his team mates are tightly marked.
I can not blame Howard for the rest of the teams disgraceful lack of enterprise and effort. In fact, had it not been for some of his marvellous saves we could have had a Benfica style hammering.
As for the rest, from back to front they were absolutely crap.
The entire five man defensive midfield of Arteta, Osman, Donovan, Pienaar and Bily were completely outplayed by what has been described as the worst Sporting side in living history.
It was in the 65th minute before our first shot that was ballooned well over the bar by Pienaar.
A number of times Donavon grabbed the ball for a quick throw and TV close ups showed his absolute frustration at having to wait for Neville to jog or slowly walk 50 yards to take them.
What really irks me is that Nevilles throws are so bloody predictable and only after all his team mates are tightly marked.
Just to rub it in further, clicked on efc.com to read what Moyes had to say and there’s an ESPN advert for the Reds March on in Europe? What twat in the commercial department allowed that to slip through the net?
http://www.evertonfc.co.uk/news/archive/41385/post-match-reaction.html
http://www.evertonfc.co.uk/news/archive/41385/post-match-reaction.html
It was the players and the players alone that fucked it up tonight.
Do you really think Moyes sent out the spineless bastards to defend a 2-1 lead for 90 minutes?
I think the 2 idiots we played at centre half had a big part in this disaster.
Do you really think Moyes sent out the spineless bastards to defend a 2-1 lead for 90 minutes?
I think the 2 idiots we played at centre half had a big part in this disaster.
That is why Liverpool Chelsea and Man U pay 200+ million for a squad of players that have a winning mentality.
As soon as our lads look like doing something their bottle goes.
And as for Phil Neville if he could play like he talks he’d be another Maradonna.
As soon as our lads look like doing something their bottle goes.
And as for Phil Neville if he could play like he talks he’d be another Maradonna.
James, who picked the two ’idiots’ at centre half? Who asked them to defend deep and who asked Ossie to follow Moutinho round like fuckin Vinny Jones?
The infuriating, and yet funny thing is, despite tonight which can go alongside the defeats to; Bucharest, and both legs against Benfica, we will STILL aim for fucking 4th next season...why?!?!?
So we can get an even bigger hiding?
So we can be even more humilaited on a grander scale, infront of a much larger audience both on TV and in the stadium?
The Champions League is a dream we all share, but in a twist, its one I don’t really want to see come true, we are a million miles away from being able to compete in that competiton.
If shitty, out of form teams like Sporting can do that to us can you even begin to imagine what the likes of; Inter, Barca, Lyon and co would do to us? and there the teams we would be drawn with due to the seeding rule.
So we can get an even bigger hiding?
So we can be even more humilaited on a grander scale, infront of a much larger audience both on TV and in the stadium?
The Champions League is a dream we all share, but in a twist, its one I don’t really want to see come true, we are a million miles away from being able to compete in that competiton.
If shitty, out of form teams like Sporting can do that to us can you even begin to imagine what the likes of; Inter, Barca, Lyon and co would do to us? and there the teams we would be drawn with due to the seeding rule.
Well, as one of the Americans who came on board with Donovan, I see where you life-long Toffee supporters get your frustration from.
You MUST attack when you have attacking players. And Everton has them. Our talent level is 1st class. This fact I will not accept arguments about. You must attack even to the point where your backline and keeper are open to counter-attacks. The big thing with being on the offensive always is that it forces the other guy into timidity. Not always, but most times. In any sport, particularly in sports like soccer, rugby, or American football, large space is a key component of tactics.
That we have such talent and didn’t put immediate and constant pressure on a (let’s face it) 2nd-rate side playing poorly for weeks is disappointing in the extreme.
I see Michael Kenrick’s point and now feel his frustration. I’m accepting that Mr. Moyes had to work to put the team in some basic solid position from which to grow over the years. He deserves the credit and no one can deny Everton has joined the "Just-below" Sky 4 for good. But the talent level now is "Silver-Raising". Particularly in mid-field. Everton is the equal of any side in the EPL at controlling the mid-field, which is controlling the game. We have to adjust accordingly. Attack, attack, attack. Let the other guy worry.
So, we move on. Big game this weekend as we continue our charge up the ladder. No one said it would be easy.
Up Everton! Up Everton!!!
UP EVERTON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Always!!!!!
You MUST attack when you have attacking players. And Everton has them. Our talent level is 1st class. This fact I will not accept arguments about. You must attack even to the point where your backline and keeper are open to counter-attacks. The big thing with being on the offensive always is that it forces the other guy into timidity. Not always, but most times. In any sport, particularly in sports like soccer, rugby, or American football, large space is a key component of tactics.
That we have such talent and didn’t put immediate and constant pressure on a (let’s face it) 2nd-rate side playing poorly for weeks is disappointing in the extreme.
I see Michael Kenrick’s point and now feel his frustration. I’m accepting that Mr. Moyes had to work to put the team in some basic solid position from which to grow over the years. He deserves the credit and no one can deny Everton has joined the "Just-below" Sky 4 for good. But the talent level now is "Silver-Raising". Particularly in mid-field. Everton is the equal of any side in the EPL at controlling the mid-field, which is controlling the game. We have to adjust accordingly. Attack, attack, attack. Let the other guy worry.
So, we move on. Big game this weekend as we continue our charge up the ladder. No one said it would be easy.
Up Everton! Up Everton!!!
UP EVERTON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Always!!!!!
First touch all round was very, very poor and the attitude stank. Nothing was played on the floor until late in the second half. The middle back two were always going to be slow and poor in distribution so Rodwell sitting in front oto protect them from the off should have been a given. Again, Donovan wasn’t allowed to get into the game and Saha’s French call up will probably be rescinded after tonight. Howard was the only man entitled to crack a beer open tonight. The third goal summed the whole evening up, inevitable as we pushed forward. A shite 90 minutes which, had we nicked it back to 2-1, I suspect we would have gone on to win. But we didn’t. Back to the last Stella in the fridge...
Will Coleman get a run sunday seeing he made the difference first time around??, still pissed off after that horror show
Time for Yobo to go ... Heitinga is class, Jags is class, Distin is average but a competent back up ... Duffy, Rodwell, Hibbert and Neville could fill in at a push so bye bye Joey - thanks for a couple of good years and a couple of duds. Senderos has been to the Adams school of Donkey ... but failed - so he can do one also.
Seems very strange to play for a 0-0 when your 2 central defenders have never played with each other before. It was obvious that we should have tried to get an away goal first and then reassessed the situation. We should have tried to keep the ball away from the defence from the start. Very poor.
The only plus was that Jags actually made proper clearances whenever he had to. Welcome back.
The only plus was that Jags actually made proper clearances whenever he had to. Welcome back.
Maybe they were pissed....?
James, if Moyes deserves credit for Utd, Chelsea etc, does he not deserve citicism for Hull, Stoke and tonight.
Or is the richly rewarded job of manager just a sinecure?
Or is the richly rewarded job of manager just a sinecure?
As for Ratcliffe, memories of him as a great centre back are beginning to be replaced by those of him turning out as a full back - as my younger lad said, ’who’s the boring bloke doing the commentary? He’s fucking awful.’
Lets hope Pienaar’s not flying the plane home Mike!!!
5 years of playing in europe and has Moyes learned any lessons ? the answer no. We will never win a trophey under this leadership but as long we accept mediocrity he’s fine. In the 1st leg after all the talk in build up about the importnace of a clean sheet. He switches to 4 4 2 while 2 nil up and cruising. Then all build up we hear we are going there to win we set out to defend all game with 2 centre halfs who i hope never play for us again.. Moyes is a joke when it comes to the crunch matches
Ha ha Brian, very good :D
To start with bily on the right and donovan on the left made it look like the intention was to cut in when going forward. Only problem was we didn’t go into their half until it was too late. Bily, who I like, should have been off at half time, he was having a stinker. The whole team looked slow and lethargic.
The sort of performance I thought we had put behind us.
The sort of performance I thought we had put behind us.
Hear, hear — Guy Hastings. On the bright side, Ratcliffe did send my hyperactive Cocker Spaniel to sleep. Cheers Rats!
Fuckin shambolic! Thanks Everton for making us look like mugs in Europe AGAIN!
As much as Moyes in the past has made some tactical errors he picked the best team available also after Sat they majority of the boys deserved to go again.
I feel a major difference in our recent up turn in form is down to Heitinga’s distribution from the back. He always looks to play it short to midfield men. I know Yobo is getting it in the neck but his distributions was poor tonight and I think the midfielders don’t even bother coming short due to the fact Yobo always looks to hit it long. Tiredness is an excuse for me, fair enough squad is small, however they boys must surely have been buzzing to play again after Sat. It is back to basics on Sat and doing the ugly things. Tonight we looked like a team who believed their own hype and suddenly didn’t close down etc.
Another note is Phil Neville, as much he is a great captain, RB is not for him. His passing, crossing poor. He would be better placed to play DM in some games and benched for others. Coleman would have been a far more progressive sub at half time to get us up the pitch as Neville’s lack of pace evident.
Sunday’s game is a must win now to give us a chance to sneak in to Europe. We have a great fixture list so the boys need to dust themselves down and get the job done. I have a feeling we may just bounce back.
I feel a major difference in our recent up turn in form is down to Heitinga’s distribution from the back. He always looks to play it short to midfield men. I know Yobo is getting it in the neck but his distributions was poor tonight and I think the midfielders don’t even bother coming short due to the fact Yobo always looks to hit it long. Tiredness is an excuse for me, fair enough squad is small, however they boys must surely have been buzzing to play again after Sat. It is back to basics on Sat and doing the ugly things. Tonight we looked like a team who believed their own hype and suddenly didn’t close down etc.
Another note is Phil Neville, as much he is a great captain, RB is not for him. His passing, crossing poor. He would be better placed to play DM in some games and benched for others. Coleman would have been a far more progressive sub at half time to get us up the pitch as Neville’s lack of pace evident.
Sunday’s game is a must win now to give us a chance to sneak in to Europe. We have a great fixture list so the boys need to dust themselves down and get the job done. I have a feeling we may just bounce back.
In his after match comments, I would like Moyes to speak the truth and not treat me like an idiot.
His esteem in my eyes would rise a notch or two if he said, "No ifs or buts about it —we were shocking." If he has any respect for the football nous of evertonians he would tell us what the game plan was and why it came unstuck. Also of interest would be at what point in the game did he become aware that the game plan needed changing.
I guess it is foolish of me to expect Moyes to be so forthcoming but it would be nice if he were. What is quite clear is that his pre-match ’we are here to win’ was nothing but an out and out lie.
can someone tell Ratcliffe its Jagielka NOT Yagyelka!
James, as far as I could gather from your contribution, blame is squarely with the players. So what is Mr. Moyes paid for?
I certainly couldn’t coach anyone ... I have no flair for motivating a disparate group of people, and I have less than no knowledge of tactics required to beat continental sides.
How could I possibly take £67. 500 per week? It would be quite wrong of me.
I certainly couldn’t coach anyone ... I have no flair for motivating a disparate group of people, and I have less than no knowledge of tactics required to beat continental sides.
How could I possibly take £67. 500 per week? It would be quite wrong of me.
I concur that with a centre-half lineup of Yobo & Senderos you cannot sit back and hope for the best. That pair would be tasked by an U-11 side.
I have seen some poor performances, but Yobo defied description. He was once linked with Arsenal. Let’s give Wenger a call; perhaps he has not been keeping up.
Howard and Arteta get to ride in the plane. The rest home by coach.
I have seen some poor performances, but Yobo defied description. He was once linked with Arsenal. Let’s give Wenger a call; perhaps he has not been keeping up.
Howard and Arteta get to ride in the plane. The rest home by coach.
Well, Jags gets a free pass, obviously.
Darren, you or I need a hearing test because tonight he was neither IMHO
As i said in the earlier post, our beloved Captain seems to be ell balanced with a chip on both shoulders
As i said in the earlier post, our beloved Captain seems to be ell balanced with a chip on both shoulders
Oh, and Ratters would have to start drowning puppies before I would think any less of him.
Though he would probably pronounce it "Poo pies"
Though he would probably pronounce it "Poo pies"
A team plays how its manager tells them to & this team was told to sit back & see what happens. That is suicide in Europe. After 4 seasons of European football Moyes has learned nothing. How can you go in 2 weeks from beating 2 of the best teams in europe to getting wasted by one of the weakest ??????
David Moyes is tactically inept when it comes to European football. This is not a knee jerk reaction to tonight's result!
We have been beaten in my opinion by a poor team yet again. This is becoming a common shambolic occurrence
Bucherest -poor team
Fiorentina-poor team
Benfica-poor team
Lisbon-poor team
Were do we go from here?
Season over, what a load of crap. No more Europe this year or next. Mid-table mediocrity.
Will someone please tell Moyes that Dunc has retired, Saha is not a target man he need the ball to feet. Moyes had the chance to inject a bit of pace last summer (Bent) and what does he do ;brings in a slow lazy Russian ...players to go.. .......Neville...an absolute liability Yobo...clueless...Senderos..did he go to school with Kroldrup ...Billy..he wont put a shift in....by the way Ratcliffe gets 5 grand to embarrass us.
Racist content removed by moderator
If that was our "in it to win it" set up -I’m dreading our ’hanging on for dear life’ option. Round up the usual suspects.....and please, no more homages to the irreplacable Capt (if only I could play half as good as I can talk) Neville. All the twaddle about the intangibles that make Capt Pip so valuable were there for all to see. The leader needs to be able to set an example, not just flap his chops. Tonight we needed a Captain to sort us out and a manager to change the plan — we had neither.
All disappointments aside, this is not a call for a new manager, just a new Captain.
Mike Green reckons maybe the players were pissed, not half as pissed as the poor bastards that spent hundreds of pounds to go and watch that embarrassing shite. Phil Neville needs to keep his fucking gob shut and do his talking on the pitch. Let us not forget that this is after all Everton F C. when expectations are raised ( Chelsea and Manure results) it always turns to rat shit. At least Jags is back and can now team up with Heitinga which should see the other three with an arse full of splinters. Yet again when it calls for pride and passion the manager and the team bottle it. Moyes always seems to be too reluctant or scared to change things until we are chasing a result. Bily was fucking awful and completely ineffectual tonight but comes out for the 2nd half. I would rather we had gone out attacking and fighting than the pathetic whimper that was served up with the all too inevitable outcome. Too defensive from the start, too deep because of the carthorses he calls centre halves and on the back foot for most of the game. John Smith is right , we are nowhere near matching the Champions League sides, we can’t even make any serious impact in the Europa League FFS
What a bloody shame. Fans of this club let down once again. I didn’t make any posts after our wins over Chelsea and Man Utd as I didn’t want to get ahead of myself. Being an Everton fan, I had a feeling this kind of performance could easily raise its ugly head again.
Arteta played ok, so did Jags and Howard. When two of your better players are the ones who have been out all season you know the team has played like shit and not put in.
We may go on about the great attitude at Everton but this season we have shown another site. Lazy capitulations that can’t be defended.
I’m angry with Moyes as that team was clearly told to go out there and park the bus in front of goal. As poor as those tactics are, the players didn’t even come close to achieving that. No urgency and no pressure on the man.
In short, poor tactics, poor commitment, poor team. To go from our last match to that pile of shit says somethig is rotten at Goodison.
Arteta played ok, so did Jags and Howard. When two of your better players are the ones who have been out all season you know the team has played like shit and not put in.
We may go on about the great attitude at Everton but this season we have shown another site. Lazy capitulations that can’t be defended.
I’m angry with Moyes as that team was clearly told to go out there and park the bus in front of goal. As poor as those tactics are, the players didn’t even come close to achieving that. No urgency and no pressure on the man.
In short, poor tactics, poor commitment, poor team. To go from our last match to that pile of shit says somethig is rotten at Goodison.
We played with fear and they did not.The reverse of the Utd game. We were Utd and they were Everton. Parallels can be made to the point that we like Utd had two idiots with an IQ of a, well, footballer playing centre half. We had no leaders out there either and looked pathetic.
Fucking gutted, I will never figure this team out.
Fucking gutted, I will never figure this team out.
Although you cannot expect us to play well every week, we should not be capable of performances as bad as tonight and in the derby. I think last season we only had 1 as bad as that which was away at Wigan. With 2 fantastic wins in between, how can this happen?
Well, yet another season with Moyes where we don’t win a trophy. Time for him to leave unless we manage to qualify for Europe this season? If not then bye, bye Moyes. And he can take Senderos, Yobo, Yakubu, Distin, Neville and Bilyaletdinov with him...
Another maddening performance. Back to the real world after last week. It’s the lack of consistency that has me tearing whats left of my hair out. Most teams seem to play to form, stretches of games where it comes together, stretches where it doesn’t.
But we’re Jekyll and Hyde, either very good, or very bad. Surely "progress" is a certain minimum level of performance?
But we’re Jekyll and Hyde, either very good, or very bad. Surely "progress" is a certain minimum level of performance?
Frustrating.
I blame Kenwright.
I thought Neville was utter shite tonight. Every time I saw him fucking point it just made me want to kick the screen in. Culpable for the build up to the first two goals, he just looks nervous on the ball and nervous off it. Would love Moyes to make a stand, drop him for Coleman or similar and make a fit-again Jags captain.
Not to say Neville was the only on liable for a good post-match hiding - don’t think anyone put in a really decent shift. Apart from one moment of Arteta magic in the second half and a few half (?) chances, that’s got to be the worst I’ve seen us play in a while.
Just got to make sure we qualify for next year and put the fucking record straight, because tonight we were out-thought, out-gunned, and out-classed.
Not to say Neville was the only on liable for a good post-match hiding - don’t think anyone put in a really decent shift. Apart from one moment of Arteta magic in the second half and a few half (?) chances, that’s got to be the worst I’ve seen us play in a while.
Just got to make sure we qualify for next year and put the fucking record straight, because tonight we were out-thought, out-gunned, and out-classed.
Moyes is 100% to blame for tonight's shambles, he sent his sides out against two of the best sides in Europe in Chelsea and Man Utd with attacking intent, result?
6 points.
He tonight sends his team out against an average side from Portugal with negative tactics, result?
A thrashing.
6 points.
He tonight sends his team out against an average side from Portugal with negative tactics, result?
A thrashing.
To Mike McLean:
Thanks for your response.
I never think the c oach is soley the reason a team wins. Whatever the sport, or for that matter any endeavor, you have to have the people to get the job done. First and foremost you must have the talent to get any particular thing done. Everton has the talent. In abundance!!.
So where does that leave us given today’s enbarrassment? It leaves us out of Europa and well-in to climbling up the ladder in the EPL.
Today’s result sucked beyond just losing. How the hell did a 2nd-rate side like Sporting dominate the Toffees? There is obviously a disconnect between talent available and consistent results. My view as newly on-board the Toffee Train is that Moyes has the rest of this season and all-next to prove he knows what to do with "Silver-Raising" talent. Because Everton is loaded with talent.
Tough stuff today. We go into sunday with passion and determination. There’s 3 points to be had.
Up the Blues!!
Thanks for your response.
I never think the c oach is soley the reason a team wins. Whatever the sport, or for that matter any endeavor, you have to have the people to get the job done. First and foremost you must have the talent to get any particular thing done. Everton has the talent. In abundance!!.
So where does that leave us given today’s enbarrassment? It leaves us out of Europa and well-in to climbling up the ladder in the EPL.
Today’s result sucked beyond just losing. How the hell did a 2nd-rate side like Sporting dominate the Toffees? There is obviously a disconnect between talent available and consistent results. My view as newly on-board the Toffee Train is that Moyes has the rest of this season and all-next to prove he knows what to do with "Silver-Raising" talent. Because Everton is loaded with talent.
Tough stuff today. We go into sunday with passion and determination. There’s 3 points to be had.
Up the Blues!!
Neville promises to show teeth in Lisbon according to the Echo. What a pity they where still in the glass that was left in the dressing room.
Ste Traverse
I think you have it spot on there. I think history proves that when we go out to play and attack other teams we more often than not upset the odds (if were playing a better side) or win quite easily.
Whereas when we play negative, defensive shite like that tonight, regardless of who we play against, we get turned over, and it happens time after time.
We are not the type of side that can defend and frustrate other teams, our team is an attacking, passing side, we have shown that against; Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea and United.
So I don’t really know why we do it, what was the point in defending from the off over there tonight? they only had to score once, we should of went out as if the tie was 0-0. Unbelievable.
I think were actually becoming so bad in Europe that Channel 5 will refuse to show us soon. And that’s saying a lot!
I think you have it spot on there. I think history proves that when we go out to play and attack other teams we more often than not upset the odds (if were playing a better side) or win quite easily.
Whereas when we play negative, defensive shite like that tonight, regardless of who we play against, we get turned over, and it happens time after time.
We are not the type of side that can defend and frustrate other teams, our team is an attacking, passing side, we have shown that against; Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea and United.
So I don’t really know why we do it, what was the point in defending from the off over there tonight? they only had to score once, we should of went out as if the tie was 0-0. Unbelievable.
I think were actually becoming so bad in Europe that Channel 5 will refuse to show us soon. And that’s saying a lot!
James: I agree with you. Some sort of complex chemistry goes on between the coach and his squad.
I guess my real point is aimed not at David Moyes but at some of his more enthusiastic fans. It is this: by all means congratulate him and his team when they do well; support them through the difficult times; but be prepared to say that very evidently things are looking "iffy" when sufficient evidence builds up.
I want Moyes to succeed and bring trophies to the club. The evidence of my eyes suggests that this is not going to happen under him. For every Utd, there’s a Liverpool; for every Chelsea, a Hull. With every good run, there is a poor pre season. And so on.
I occasionally read (on other forums) that he is still a young manager. Still learning. I’d suggest he’s paid an experienced manager’s salary, and that if he’s still learning after this many years that there is a very considerable barrier to his progress — perhaps stubborness ... who knows?
In another walk of life, tonight would merit a written warning as to his future conduct.
I guess my real point is aimed not at David Moyes but at some of his more enthusiastic fans. It is this: by all means congratulate him and his team when they do well; support them through the difficult times; but be prepared to say that very evidently things are looking "iffy" when sufficient evidence builds up.
I want Moyes to succeed and bring trophies to the club. The evidence of my eyes suggests that this is not going to happen under him. For every Utd, there’s a Liverpool; for every Chelsea, a Hull. With every good run, there is a poor pre season. And so on.
I occasionally read (on other forums) that he is still a young manager. Still learning. I’d suggest he’s paid an experienced manager’s salary, and that if he’s still learning after this many years that there is a very considerable barrier to his progress — perhaps stubborness ... who knows?
In another walk of life, tonight would merit a written warning as to his future conduct.
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I can’t believe how bad I feel after that result.I know I’m not the only one. Moyes and Co owe us all an apology, especially the poor sods who actually travelled. It was an EMBARRASSMENT.
How Moyes can set his team up to play these tactics is beyond comprehension. It wasn’t just Yobo booting it aimlessly, Howard was also guilty of it, all the way through the game, it was driving me insane, bypassing everyone and hoofing it up to Saha, who had no one within 25 yards of him. (in stark contrast to Sporting who passed every ball out)
Just plain STUPID and easy pickings for Sorting who just came straight back at us.
This was obviously a Moyes tactic, otherwise why would they keep doing it, it would be easy to stop by issuing a quick instruction from the side lines. Absolute JOKE.
Billy doesn’t look interested but I will give him until next season before I judge. As mentioned above, Neville’s sound bites are getting boring. Jay Harris (45) got it right above. It appears to me that recent results have been in spite of Neville, not because of him. He just seems totally useless to me at the moment (on the pitch). I know its a different thread and he might give something to the team in leadership qualities etc but unfortunately he’s just not very good at the moment and it might be time to bench him. I keep thinking of Coleman rampaging down the right and then I see what Neville offers! Thats another one of Moyes problems, is this loyalty to players who for one reason or another are just not cutting it, either out of form or out of position but retain a starting place.
Michael will feel completely vindicated after this result and whilst I would suggest that Moyes has done relatively well building this squad during his tenure with the resources available, its nights like this that leave the fans banging their collective heads against a brick wall.
I stayed up till 6 am watching that dross and then went to bed and had an Everton related nightmare. Thing is, the nightmare wasn’t half as bad as the reality (Arteta scored in my nightmare-albeit a fumble from the keeper).
I also take issue with UEFA, how can Heitinga be cup tied for playing for a team in a different competition? Absolute joke and needs addressing. That went a huge way to costing us these results, as we were "unfairly" handicapped by not being able to play a settled team, hardly fair in my opinion. Are we just cursed when it comes to Europe?
Anyway I vote James Flynn for manager, at least he’d have got our tactics right last night. Even if we didn’t win, we’d have gone out with a fight. Welcome to the Everton family James, you’re learning fast just how hard it is being an Evertonian.
Spurs up next, lets hope for a great result so I can put this sickening feeling to bed.
COYB
How Moyes can set his team up to play these tactics is beyond comprehension. It wasn’t just Yobo booting it aimlessly, Howard was also guilty of it, all the way through the game, it was driving me insane, bypassing everyone and hoofing it up to Saha, who had no one within 25 yards of him. (in stark contrast to Sporting who passed every ball out)
Just plain STUPID and easy pickings for Sorting who just came straight back at us.
This was obviously a Moyes tactic, otherwise why would they keep doing it, it would be easy to stop by issuing a quick instruction from the side lines. Absolute JOKE.
Billy doesn’t look interested but I will give him until next season before I judge. As mentioned above, Neville’s sound bites are getting boring. Jay Harris (45) got it right above. It appears to me that recent results have been in spite of Neville, not because of him. He just seems totally useless to me at the moment (on the pitch). I know its a different thread and he might give something to the team in leadership qualities etc but unfortunately he’s just not very good at the moment and it might be time to bench him. I keep thinking of Coleman rampaging down the right and then I see what Neville offers! Thats another one of Moyes problems, is this loyalty to players who for one reason or another are just not cutting it, either out of form or out of position but retain a starting place.
Michael will feel completely vindicated after this result and whilst I would suggest that Moyes has done relatively well building this squad during his tenure with the resources available, its nights like this that leave the fans banging their collective heads against a brick wall.
I stayed up till 6 am watching that dross and then went to bed and had an Everton related nightmare. Thing is, the nightmare wasn’t half as bad as the reality (Arteta scored in my nightmare-albeit a fumble from the keeper).
I also take issue with UEFA, how can Heitinga be cup tied for playing for a team in a different competition? Absolute joke and needs addressing. That went a huge way to costing us these results, as we were "unfairly" handicapped by not being able to play a settled team, hardly fair in my opinion. Are we just cursed when it comes to Europe?
Anyway I vote James Flynn for manager, at least he’d have got our tactics right last night. Even if we didn’t win, we’d have gone out with a fight. Welcome to the Everton family James, you’re learning fast just how hard it is being an Evertonian.
Spurs up next, lets hope for a great result so I can put this sickening feeling to bed.
COYB
Moyes out? Ha ha ha. Were you all saying this after the Chelsea and United games then? We wouldn’t even get a sniff of European football without that guy.
That said, we were shite last night. Never got going at all and it was pretty obvious Sporting were going to score at some stage - especially when we keep knocking it long to a non-supported, lone striker, giving posession away time and time again. Has that tactic ever actually worked for us?
We’ll be back at some point, hopefully with less players returning from bad injuries and with Heitinga available.
That said, we were shite last night. Never got going at all and it was pretty obvious Sporting were going to score at some stage - especially when we keep knocking it long to a non-supported, lone striker, giving posession away time and time again. Has that tactic ever actually worked for us?
We’ll be back at some point, hopefully with less players returning from bad injuries and with Heitinga available.
Lat night showed to me that our best center half, Heitinger, makes a massive difference to the way we play. He plays the ball out to feet and pushes up bringing the defence out and closing down midfield. Yobo and Senderos looked awful, too deep allowing them loads of space to play it around and not quick enough to play against the quick forwards they had. The only good thing out of this debacle was seeing Jags back and playing a lot better then either of the other two even though he’s been out so long. I do agree that the rule stopping Jonny playing is a joke and another one that screwed us.
I’m still in pain after that defeat. My initial reaction was to heap all the blame on Moyes but looking at it with a cooler head I think the players have to takeequal. Not one of them stood up to be counted when we were under pressure. Heitinga was a big miss and I think Fellaini was also
Alan Ross
brilliant comment!
brilliant comment!
this lies with the players as much as Moyes... I’m sure Moyes didn’t tell them when they’re in possession not to pas to a fellow blue and be in space to receive the ball..
it was just that the payers I think froze on the stage or maybe even thought it would be a walk in the park... We haven’t passed the ball around that badly since well.. last year.
it was just that the payers I think froze on the stage or maybe even thought it would be a walk in the park... We haven’t passed the ball around that badly since well.. last year.
Have been watching Everton for a very long time. This is the first time I have ever actually fallen asleep. It really was that bad.
The only other constructive thing I can think of saying is that Moyes obviously had not worked out that the way to get through the tie was to score a goal rather than defend.
Oh; and Yakubu. Please leave.
The only other constructive thing I can think of saying is that Moyes obviously had not worked out that the way to get through the tie was to score a goal rather than defend.
Oh; and Yakubu. Please leave.
We were poor, but I think people are little harsh on Lisbon. They stop our main threat which is the left hand side. Baines didn’t get up past their full back until we were 2 down.
Donovan, Bily, pienaar every time they went up their they were forced to turn back.
Maybe it come down to no plan B.
Donovan, Bily, pienaar every time they went up their they were forced to turn back.
Maybe it come down to no plan B.
Mark Harding
You make the comment ’Yakubu. I will leave that to big Ron’- i would like to say am surprised that anyone would make such a comment about anyone especially about an Everton player-what a prick you are!
You make the comment ’Yakubu. I will leave that to big Ron’- i would like to say am surprised that anyone would make such a comment about anyone especially about an Everton player-what a prick you are!
Terrible team performance and some woeful individual ones. Senderos turns slower than the Exon Valdez! HIm and Yobo at the back are a liability and should never be paired again. We really missed Heitinga too.
Amazing but not entirely unsurprising that Everton can take you from elation to dispair in under a week.
Totally agree on the comments about refunds for the fans who travelled. Time to put something back from their over inflated wage packets!
Amazing but not entirely unsurprising that Everton can take you from elation to dispair in under a week.
Totally agree on the comments about refunds for the fans who travelled. Time to put something back from their over inflated wage packets!
James Flynn, what does "silver raising" mean?
The poorest player on the pitch against Utd was Bily, losing theball easily, couldnt tackle a bag of mixed sweets, yet played most of the game last night in the same fashion.
The performance last night was a carbon copy of the Fiorentina first leg, pathetic tactically, the second leg the team were given full rein and murdered Fiorentina on the night.
I am afraid that Mr Moyes learned nothing from that tie and repeated the tactics last night.
How can you tell Osman, who was the best player on the field against Man Utd, to just follow Moutinho round the pitch ?
if you take the Fulham-Shaktar first leg as an example, there was not a chance that Fulham would beat them, but Hodgson, a very experienced and underrated manager adjusted his tactics to a more English style and attacked Shaktar in the 2nd half, ultimately winning the leg.
We came out for the 2nd half and unbelievably did nothing and played exactly the same way, Sporting could not believe their luck and when they took the lead they still attacked and were the only team who were going to score a second goal, the third goal the same as the Villareal one.
I am not a football manager,but if I had a team that was sitting back asking for it (and getting it !) then I wouldtry to change things, tactically and personnel wise, the horrible bastards across the parkwere in the same boat last night, a goal down, but ended up winning 3-1, tactics, tactics.
The poorest player on the pitch against Utd was Bily, losing theball easily, couldnt tackle a bag of mixed sweets, yet played most of the game last night in the same fashion.
The performance last night was a carbon copy of the Fiorentina first leg, pathetic tactically, the second leg the team were given full rein and murdered Fiorentina on the night.
I am afraid that Mr Moyes learned nothing from that tie and repeated the tactics last night.
How can you tell Osman, who was the best player on the field against Man Utd, to just follow Moutinho round the pitch ?
if you take the Fulham-Shaktar first leg as an example, there was not a chance that Fulham would beat them, but Hodgson, a very experienced and underrated manager adjusted his tactics to a more English style and attacked Shaktar in the 2nd half, ultimately winning the leg.
We came out for the 2nd half and unbelievably did nothing and played exactly the same way, Sporting could not believe their luck and when they took the lead they still attacked and were the only team who were going to score a second goal, the third goal the same as the Villareal one.
I am not a football manager,but if I had a team that was sitting back asking for it (and getting it !) then I wouldtry to change things, tactically and personnel wise, the horrible bastards across the parkwere in the same boat last night, a goal down, but ended up winning 3-1, tactics, tactics.
Agreed Ray,
surprised that comment’s survived moderation.
surprised that comment’s survived moderation.
Why is it that a team that has just outplayed and outpassed the Premiership champions on Satuarday cannot put two passes together against an ordinary side in Sporting?
I have two theories, well two players, Heitinger - Passes the ball well and marshalls the defence and that useless dope Yobo. Great defender, absolute liability going forward. I can predict what a commentator will say when Yobo gets the ball - "Yobo hits it long" which in usually follow by "and the ball goes out/the goalkeeper collects"
Moyes is to blame for the negative tactics but the players are to blame just as much for not being able to do the basics - control/pass/move
I have two theories, well two players, Heitinger - Passes the ball well and marshalls the defence and that useless dope Yobo. Great defender, absolute liability going forward. I can predict what a commentator will say when Yobo gets the ball - "Yobo hits it long" which in usually follow by "and the ball goes out/the goalkeeper collects"
Moyes is to blame for the negative tactics but the players are to blame just as much for not being able to do the basics - control/pass/move
l thought it was funny that before the match one of the commentators said this won’t be the Everton we saw last time in Lisbon ! how right they were!!Can anyone remember that wonderful letter to Grimsby Town players a while back?Well we should write one to the Everton"team" about clearly not being able to do the job that they are paid(probably a lot more than grimsby town!!) to do! l have seen more accurate passing in schoolboy matches!! lf l didn’t know better l’d say that Everton had taken a bribe!! l agree the poor sods that travelled should be refunded x 2 for the misery they were subjected to, at least most of us could leave the room,l went for a piss and came back to find 2 0 in the left hand corner of the screen! l am now having doubts about should l make the effort to walk 400 yds to a pub on Sat to watch us be creamed by Spurs! never mind travelling abroad ! couldn’t believe the crap Stubbsey was coming out with at half time! was he watching the same match!! talk about towing the party line! And as usual (l don’t know how many times l’ve said this!) we have one of our players( capt pip in this instance) saying we are going to do well in this competiton FFS please shut up!! every fucking time they open their mouths we end up on our arse, did we say we were going to beat United and Chelsea ? l think not !! l also thought it poetic justice the 3rd goal was a tap in to an empty net while our "players" looked on as a reward for the most appalling display of "football" ever dished out by our beloved club, l was hoping to progress in this competition to maybe be drawn against the RS and regain a bit of pride but clearly all the people above have a lot more pride in the shirt than our overpaid "players"do judging by their "effort"There are 94 people before me who obviously care very much! And one more thing !! why do we buy players to strengthen our side who can’t play in Europe?! not that that will be an issue next season!
All this talk of a push for a European place now (i.e. the "concentrate on the league cliche")...and I was wondering what real benefit playing in the Europa League brings to the Club.
We are unlikely to win it; the revenue streams and "brand" exposure seem negligible;
All it seems to bring is a greater drain on our already depleted resources and a few games under the lights against some also-ran European neighbours.
Just a though like.....
We are unlikely to win it; the revenue streams and "brand" exposure seem negligible;
All it seems to bring is a greater drain on our already depleted resources and a few games under the lights against some also-ran European neighbours.
Just a though like.....
No. You can’t blame the manager. the manager’s job is to deliver the team fit and ready for the match and set out the tactics. Clearly Moyes was expecting to get hold of the ball and play to win. It is the players who didn’t turn up tonight, they didn’t get a kick. Pienaar, Donovan and the woeful Bilyaletdinov. Saha is dead on his feet after an hour, his stamina is really suspect. I thought Senderos and Yobo did well for an hour considering Sporting had all the ball but i have never seen a five man midfield so completely overrun. There are some really big doubts emerging about Bilyaletdinov in my mind.
Re: comments directed at Ratcliffe.What do you expect the bloke to say about players in blue when he’s watching that load of shite? Why would he have an agenda FFS?And by the way, he happens to be the only one who does pronounce Jageilka’s name right as he had Jags’s younger brother at Shrewsbury and the lad’s parents told him that was the correct proununciation.Jesus, we play atrociously and want to make a former from 25 years ago the scapegoat! Grow up.
Kevin, it’s also the manager’s job to prepare them mentally and motivate them and give them a rocket if they’re not doing their jobs properly. For me, the clue was in the 2nd half. The players came out in the 2nd half and their performance hadn’t changed. That suggests to me that the manager set them out to play like that, although of course I could be wrong about that, not beign in the dressing room and all. Of course the players have to take some blame too. They were 2nd best in every dept. I think Fella was a big miss.
I really think everyone should go easy on Bily. He’s not lazy he’s just absolutely shagged. The Russian league has a different schedule which means that he’s already played a full season, rather than just half the EPL. He looks dead on his feet
I really think everyone should go easy on Bily. He’s not lazy he’s just absolutely shagged. The Russian league has a different schedule which means that he’s already played a full season, rather than just half the EPL. He looks dead on his feet
I have to say Rattys coat was awful though !!
Spot on mate. How is it that every Everton fan knows why we got knocked out last night, apart from Moyes. If you go into a gme settling for a draw you are asking for trouble and thats what we got. We always start off so negative in games and we have to go behind until we start playing football and having a go, it’s as if we are scared. It happened against Chelsea and Man United, except we came back then.
I don’t understand why we had to give them so much respect. They must be thinking that they couldn’t have asked for an easier game. What was Moyes’ plan? Invite pressure on and defend for 90 minutes and hope we don’t concede? Even one goal would have knocked us out. Anyone could see that we should have been trying to get a goal? The players got what they deserved, no trophies this year because half of them couldn’t be bothered trying in what was the most important game of the season I feel ( we’re not doing much in the league because of Moyes) so much for the Everton motto; nothing but the best is good enough...And Phil Neville"We will see a different everton tonigh", what an embarassment.
I don’t understand why we had to give them so much respect. They must be thinking that they couldn’t have asked for an easier game. What was Moyes’ plan? Invite pressure on and defend for 90 minutes and hope we don’t concede? Even one goal would have knocked us out. Anyone could see that we should have been trying to get a goal? The players got what they deserved, no trophies this year because half of them couldn’t be bothered trying in what was the most important game of the season I feel ( we’re not doing much in the league because of Moyes) so much for the Everton motto; nothing but the best is good enough...And Phil Neville"We will see a different everton tonigh", what an embarassment.
The reason we beat United is because we kept the ball and never gave it away. For most of the match we just gave away the ball to them. Moyes is partly to blame as they just weren’t set up to get a result. Unless we finish in a good position I feel most Evertonians will be unhappy with this season.
A tactical disaster from DM and a disgraceful letdown by most of the players. Bily should’ve been pulled at half-time and the liability that is Neville at right back should’ve been moved to sit in front of the atrocious centre-backs (Yobo's time at EFC is surely up). I couldn’t see any leadership on the pitch.
We all must’ve sat there knowing that Moyes wouldn’t make any positive changes till Sporting scored, Rodwell was thrown on and wandered around lost, were was he supposed to be playing? What happened to the fantastic Baines-Pienaar link up that has been our most creative option?
We know DM loves his 4-5-1 but Saha was so isolated it was embarrassing... how long is he going to persevere with Neville at right back he is a fucking liability, I can tolerate him in a seek and destroy roll in the middle but come on give Coleman a chance, Dave.
That’s the season over with 12 games still to play... what a comedown after the last couple of weeks. As someone stated earlier, what’s the point of striving to finish in the European places if we’re going to capitulate like this?
Can’t get my chin off the floor today — what a fucking letdown!
Geoff, I accept your point and I’m sure he asked them for more at half time. I played sport at a high level and coach kids rugby and football. I always took responsibility for my performance on the pitch and I encourage the kids I coach and manage to do the same. They step over the white line though, not the manager. He produced the same team for Saturday’s game with the same philosophy. We are becoming a team with a reputation for not travelling well. It’s a shame for the fans.
LAst night was not 100% Moyes’ fault or anywhere near. If anyone thinks it is then they weren’t watching the match. You could see and hear Moyes shouting orders to the team to push up the field, to move into space and do the very things the team did against United.
Did the team do any of these things? No.
Once the players are on the pitch there is only so much any manager can do and if they chose to ignore him, what’s the manager to do?
I clearly remember an England match where David Beckham publicly apologised to the fans because they lost. The England team, for some unknown reason decided to punt the ball up the field instead of passing it along the ground and this was NOT a tactic the manager had asked them to play. Beckhams apology included this statement
Last nights game, for the most part was comparable to this. I doubt very much that Moyes asked his team to punt the ball up field as they did. I would be very surprised if Moyes asked his team to defend as far back as they did.
I firmly agree the team played terribly and the third goal was awful.
Did the team do any of these things? No.
Once the players are on the pitch there is only so much any manager can do and if they chose to ignore him, what’s the manager to do?
I clearly remember an England match where David Beckham publicly apologised to the fans because they lost. The England team, for some unknown reason decided to punt the ball up the field instead of passing it along the ground and this was NOT a tactic the manager had asked them to play. Beckhams apology included this statement
Last nights game, for the most part was comparable to this. I doubt very much that Moyes asked his team to punt the ball up field as they did. I would be very surprised if Moyes asked his team to defend as far back as they did.
I firmly agree the team played terribly and the third goal was awful.
Chris I disagree.
How can you "Not be setup" to get a result if you play a team that beat the current domestic champions?
Doesn’t make sense what you’re saying.
Anyway it wasn’t the same team.
With Yobo in for Heitinga, any ball retention at the back and slowing the game down when we needed to disappeared.
That was an enforced change.
Face it.
Heitinga has been responsible for our defence performing when he’s played at CB... and when he’s been out it hasn’t.
I see the trend.
Everton’s results have been on the back of Heitinga’s doing what he does.
i.e. thinking about what he’s doing when on the ball.
How can you "Not be setup" to get a result if you play a team that beat the current domestic champions?
Doesn’t make sense what you’re saying.
Anyway it wasn’t the same team.
With Yobo in for Heitinga, any ball retention at the back and slowing the game down when we needed to disappeared.
That was an enforced change.
Face it.
Heitinga has been responsible for our defence performing when he’s played at CB... and when he’s been out it hasn’t.
I see the trend.
Everton’s results have been on the back of Heitinga’s doing what he does.
i.e. thinking about what he’s doing when on the ball.
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1 Posted 25/02/2010 at 18:58:49
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I am at a loss to try and explain what happens with them. No cohesion and no idea how to break Sporting down - the whole team were awful. Bastards, ruined another good week after it all started so promisingly. Why do I fucking bother?