Stirring stalemate at The Emirates

, 16 April, 182comments  |  Jump to most recent
Arsenal 0 - 0 Everton

Seamus Coleman made some crucial interventions to earn a deserved point for the Blues in North London
With six games to go and mileage still remaining in their quest for Europe, Everton face a massive game against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium this evening. David Moyes was forced to make one change to the team that started against QPR on Saturday, Barkley coming into the side for Leon Osman, who is injured.

Match Summary

It was a fairly lively start to the game, with Fellaini trying to impose himself then Barkley releasing Mirallas but the Belgian overran it. A shockingly ad Pienaar non-pass to Baines was followed by a huge shoulder barge from Anichebe after he was held back illegally (not called) by Mertesacker .

Jagielka then fed a great low ball, perfectly weighted for Pienaar running in but Pienaar skied it horribly, as Everton dominated the early exchanges, some of which were already getting quite physical as Anichebe drove on, Blues looking up for it!

A silly block by Fellaini made a yellow card all the more inevitable, but the ref was holding them tight to his chest as the game developed, with Everton pushing the Gunners back but not getting the penetration needed to threaten the home goal.

Arsenal did finally get behind the Everton defence but there was no-one to pick up Ramsey's low cross along the 6-yard line and Everton again regrouped and pushed back. Barkley and Carzola tussled, landing on the Arsenal player's knee as the game looked more like a wrestling match at times, Wilshere the next to bounce off Barkley, and stay down.

The desire and commitment being shown tended to be at the cost of joined-up play at times, with the game scrappy and fluid play a rarity as Everton continued to out-compete their hosts for the ball but not really do that much creative with it.

A horrible clearance by Fellaini out wide, played right into the danger area in front of the Everton goal, and Gibbs lashed a shot over the angle as a result. Shocking risk!

The physical contact all over the pitch was a real challenge for referee Swarbrick to manage, and he seemed to have decide to let the game go on whereas many might have blown the pea from their whistle by this stage, Gibson coming in hard on Walcott finally making him pull out the card. Arsenal's free-kick was easily defended away. 30 mins gone and still no real shot on target.

A telling spell, though, were Everton had good possession in midfield but could not get forward and eventually sw Distin hoof it forward to lose possession. But it was regained by Coleman running forward down the right and Mirallas looked to have got forward but too early: he was flagged offside. Gibson then took out Walcott with a heavy body check, but incredibly avoided a second yellow.

. Pienaar then ran across Walcott who collapsed and the Everton player got a card for his troubles, as Everton risked losing the physical battle their earnest play had initiated. They resisted a rare spell of Arsenal pressure but could not break forward.

Barkley did well to dispossess Arteta and was at the other end of the move to clip the first shot on target, an easy save for Szczesny. He did really well again to take possession (he was really having a good half by recent standards) and sent in a ball for Pienaar but the forward could not dig out the shot on goal.

But Arsenal broke a lot faster Ramsey laying in a brilliant ball from Ramsey for Giroud who at full stretch beat Howard to the ball but leathered it wide. Arsenal looked to really probe with intent for the first time in the game and it needed a diving lunge from Jagielka to save the day.

An intriguing first half, dominated for the most part by a determined and somewhat belligerent Everton, who really got at the Gunners, lock, stock and barrel but could not produce the chances or shots needed to give them the lead. Hopefully the chance had not gone but could they maintain these levels of effort through another 45 mins?

Mirallas got an early shot after the break but it lacked power or invention, easy meat for Szczesny. But the Blues were once again pinning the hosts back until a criminally short pass from Pienaar gave Arsenal the chance to surge forward, Cazorla finally shooting hard at Howard as Arsenal started to produce more threatening football. Distin really did well to get ahead of Walcott and scoop the ball away for a corner.

In a (for Everton) sweeping move, Barkley looked to attack down the inside left channel but hesitancy and indecision got the better of him. Mirallas won a free-kick for Everton and a fantastic ball in from Baines that Anichebe glanced well wide.

A good spell for Everton saw Arteta foul Pienaar as Coleman shot wide, and the free-kick was called, Baines lashing it twice into the wall, allowing Arsenal to break but somehow the Blues regrouped only to be threatened again by Ramsey and Gibbs down the Everton left, winning a corner that came to nought.

The hour mark passed with Everton showing no signs of giving up the fight, but frustratingly unable to generate a real clear-cut chance, and always vulnerable to the Arsenal counter as they tried to force the high line.

Mirallas won Everton's first corner, dropping short; disappointing. Barkley took things into his own hands and fired a fantastic shot that was just inches past the angle; well worth a goal, manufactured from nothing. Wenger decided on a double sub to change their fortunes. Barkley got Everton's third yellow for tugging a red shirt.

A spell of Arsenal possession pinned the Blues back, Pienaar getting called for a foul that Arteta delivered but no-one attacked, but Arsenal got another corner after Ramsey headed over but somehow Arsenal got another corner that Ramsey tried to backheel in at the far post. David Moyes finally went for a change of personnel, with 15 mins left, Nikica Jelavic replacing Ross Barkley... 4-3-3?

More Everton pressure suddenly switched to another surging Arsenal counter, Giroud about to score in the open goal but for a brilliant intervention by Coleman, Howard grateful to grasp it. Giroud got another bite of the cherry and lashed over after beating Jagielka.

Into the last 10 minutes and the level of desperation from each side to get the goal that would win this game and earn a golden 3 points was increasingly palpable. If anything, it looked like Arsenal finally had the measure of the doggedly determined Blues, as they pushed and probed with more confidence, the Blues perhaps flagging, and maddeningly resorting to the incredibly wasteful long ball, leading to another Arsenal corner that Fellaini headed away firmly.

But the momentum was now all with Arsenal, although a foul on Jagielka won respite with a central free-kick but still Everton could do nothing, Mirallas unable to control a good ball on the edge of the Arsenal area.

Arteta got free and seemed to have all the time in the world but Coleman clipped the ball off his toe, back to Howard. At the other end, Jagielka did well out wide, and eventually a shot from Anichebe that ballooned high and wide. With the game almost up, Moyes chose to replace Anichebe with Naismith... and then another change.

Arsenal surged forward again with but were blocked and Naismith was fouled... surely the last chance for the Blues. Gibson form deep chipped in but nothing would come of it, with Oviedo on for Mirallas in the last 15 seconds.

Arsenal now resorted to the long ball, Moyes's ploy for another minute of added time having half-worked but Arsenal kept pushing the Blues back until the final whistle went and both teams had a point neither really wanted because it meant 2 points dropped. And still no wins at Arsenal for David Moyes.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs (90' Monreal), Ramsey, Arteta, Wilshere (68' Oxlade-Chamberlain), Walcott (69' Podolski), Giroud, Cazorla.
Subs: Mannone, Vermaelen, Rosicky, Gervinho. Everton (4-4-1-1?): Howard; Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Gibson Y:28', Fellaini, Pienaar Y:32', Mirallas; Barkley Y:70'; Anichebe.
Subs: Mucha, Duffy, Oviedo, Heitinga, Hitzlsperger, Jelavic, Neville

Quotes or other material sourced from ToffeeWeb Match Reports



Reader Comments (182)

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Kunal Desai
1 Posted 16/04/2013 at 18:49:28
Barkley starts!! No Ossie
Richard Dodd
2 Posted 16/04/2013 at 18:52:36
Now all the Barkley fanatics have the chance to see him against the best.A brave selection by a manager going for the throat.
Douglas Turner
5 Posted 16/04/2013 at 18:55:05
I wonder if the real Fellaini will turn up tonight. Pienaar usually ups his game for the big guns. Ljust hope the rest do too!
Eugene Ruane
6 Posted 16/04/2013 at 18:56:10
Oh for fuck's SAKE Jags!! How many times are you going to give possession away!!? Stop hoofing it down the throat of their centre halves, look for a blue shirt you daft tw.........oh erm.... apologies, just realised my watch is an hour fast.
Mike Gaynes
7 Posted 16/04/2013 at 18:58:42
Let's hope the young man is up to it. If he shines, it could be a career-maker. If not...

This is certainly the most attack-minded side Moyes could put on the pitch.

Graham Mockford
8 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:01:15
No Osman, Hibbert or Neville. Thank fuck Naismith is on the bench or it would be a quite live forum.
Mike Gaynes
10 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:02:24
Eugene, that's a classic example of running yourself out in the warm-up.
Colin Glassar
11 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:04:08
Such a big game. I'd have put Oviedo on the left and moved Pienaar into the middle. I hope Barkley does a Rooney.
Kev Lucas
13 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:06:14
I was sat in work today thinking about where we may actually finish this season. Surely above Liverpool... but Europa League? Champions League??? A win tonight and everyone else will really have to sit up and take notice. I really hope we do it but wouldn't mind it if we pick up a point and keep ticking along quietly as the underdogs and take the prize with a final sprint for the line.

I could see us going into the last game as a 'win or bust' game. But where are the 8 points going to come from prior to that?? Unfortunately I had to get some work done so my musings had to stop for a while....

But.... I've got home from work and the bbc has provided me with a way of predicting how we will do. Using the Predictor on the BBC website , I have us heading into the last game of the season knowing a win would put us into Europe.

I'm going for a 1-2 win while Spurs only pick up a point.. Champions League, We're Havin' a Laugh!!, Champions League.....

Peter Leslie
14 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:04:12
Ok, who gave Moyes those Kevin Keegan positive pills??

Marsh, was it you?!?

Mark Frere
15 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:19:11
I hope Barkley is playing behind Anichebe and not on the wing...
Kevin Day
16 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:25:55
Could be the perfect game for Barkley. Here's hoping the whole team perform
Eugene Ruane
17 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:27:38
Kev Lucas (200), I've just done the predictor.

Not much point in me watching now, we finish 6th on 63 points

(three points ahead of Liverpool)

Ernie Baywood
18 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:31:46
I'm assuming he's in the centre alongside Fellaini and Gibson, with Mirallas linking up with Anichebe from the right and Pienaar from the left.

4-5-1 converting to 4-3-3 when we attack.

Moyes has gone mad, but I like it. What a vote in confidence for Ross. Moyes has got balls!

Michael Kenrick
19 Posted 16/04/2013 at 19:41:53
That seems to be potentially a very attack-minded line-up.

I hope Fellaini is playing deeper with Mirallas and Barkley supporting Anichebe...

Wait, see, hope...

Jimmy Sørheim
22 Posted 16/04/2013 at 20:25:46
3 defenders on the bench, what is the point of that?
Steven Telford
23 Posted 16/04/2013 at 20:33:26
Will we finish with 11 men on the field?
Gibson and Pienaar need to watch out. And Pienar needs to watch the accuracy of his passing.
So far Barkley is doing pretty well. Full of energy.
Steven Telford
24 Posted 16/04/2013 at 20:43:29
Was note worthy to see Arteta try to get Gibson a second yellow......
We should remember that the next time he is back for a game at Goodison
Craig Mills
25 Posted 16/04/2013 at 20:45:51
Lets go for it this half, we having nothing to be scared of
Craig Mills
26 Posted 16/04/2013 at 20:48:00
Worried about Gibson not getting a second yellow in this half......
Steven Telford
27 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:35:05
Anichebe would be a great player if he just had, pace, ball control skills, positioning sense, fitness and a general footballing brain.
Apart from that, fantastic player.
How the fuck was he kept on for the whole game, he was at times sitting down on the grass.

Oviado on at 94 mins……… shrewdly timed change. should have happened an hour earlier.

John Smith
28 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:39:55
Coleman was MotM for me. He always looked arsed. Was always running. Made countless blocks and tackles and was generally superb. I also thought Barkley did very well in his proper position.
Si Cooper
29 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:39:04
Real edge of the seat stuff for 90 plus minutes!

Had to hold on a bit(!) in the second half but credit to the manager and all the players for going for it at the Emirates.

Terry McLavey
30 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:40:36
Some nice football played tonight. The Arse looked quite nervous at times apart from the last 10 minutes. I reckon we could have won that... but I reckon a lot of things!
Tony Marsh
31 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:39:02
We come up short yet again in a must-win game. Anichebe and Pienaar were useless.

Baffling substitutions. No real threat up front. Oviedo must wonder what's going on. Still no win for Moyes at the home of the old Sky 4 teams. It's another season of failure when it could've been so different. We lack big game mentality when our balls are on the chopping block. Good effort tonight but earlier season games have done us in. Maybe next year, eh, Boys?

Steve Brown
32 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:43:02
Ross Barkley really arrived in the premiership tonight. Fellaini and the defence were excellent.

We bossed the first half but hung on in the second.

Tony J Williams
33 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:45:35
I think Anichebe had his magnet boots on the wrong feet tonight, repelling the ball not sticking to him. Utter shite that.
Anto Byrne
34 Posted 16/04/2013 at 20:36:24
Great game, I enjoyed every minute. Barkley Brilliant, Fellaini Fantastic, Coleman Class, Howard Heroic, Distin Dynamic, Mirallas Majestic.
Nick Entwistle
36 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:46:32
I thought the entire second half swung for Arsenal when Pienaar gave the ball sway cheaply in the 48th minute when we were doing all the pressing. Arsenal then had a good five minutes of possession and was all them from then on.
Ross Edwards
37 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:45:18
Arsenal's behaviour in that game was disgusting. Rolling around, cheating, Arteta running up to the ref to get Gibbo and Pienaar booked, Sagna pretending to have a head injury, Wilshere diving, feigning injury swearing repeatedly at the ref, Wenger whinging. Any respect I had for Arsenal football wise has gone.
Arsenal and Arsene Wenger should be ashamed of themselves. Absolutely disgraceful. You wouldn't see our players doing that.
Have to say, Mirallas squirting water at Wilshere at HT was hilarious.
Si Cooper
38 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:42:29
Have been busy settling into a new job recently so have not been visiting the site as much as I normally would.

What is the general feeling in why Davey Moyes looks so positive at the moment? He seems to have got his energy / passion back.

Not a perfect performance from young Ross but certainly good enough to show he has what it takes to excel in his profession. A foot away from a classic goal as well.

Ralph Basnett
39 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:48:47
Barkley now knows what it is like today in the man's game — and not the boy's games he has blossomed in. He's done well and I would give him more but he needs a little guidance.

Oviedo came on far too late as Pienaar was struggling from the kick-off.

Looking at remaining fixtures and whilst (unless there is massive investment) we will be embarrassed in Champions League, it still is not out of reach. We've just got to beat the Shite at their place, which Mr Moyes has failed to do......

Mark Scarratt
41 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:51:29
I said earlier that we should go for the win, and for the most part we did. Also positive substitution of Jelavic for Barkley.

We did get forced backwards quite a bit in the 2nd half but, based on previous performances at Arsenal, this has to rank as one of the best.

Just a pity we have drawn too many games against the lesser teams. Top 4 is going to be tough now, but still a chance.... Well done for having a go.....at last.....

Nick Entwistle
42 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:52:51
Ross, its not like Everton didn't stick their foot in though.

Beat Sunderland, Fulham, West Ham, draw with Liverpool should be enough to see a final day chance with Chelsea.

Si Cooper
43 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:50:08
Ross, personally I thought Gibbo and Pienaar deserved their yellows overall, though you could argue about whether the right challenges got the appropriate punishment.

Early doors, it seemed Arsenal were getting the benefit of a few dubious decisions but don't think the officials were all that bad tonight. In the end the ref contributed pretty well to keeping the game flowing.

Ross Edwards
44 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:56:21
I think Si, Moyes has found new energy and passion because he might read Toffeeweb!

Sky have said that Wenger "is not well enough" to speak. He was not well enough to moan repeatedly at the 4th official wasn't he?

Nick Entwistle
45 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:56:46
Thought Barkley showed exactly why he's not being picked. Ridiculous the way he gave the ball away at times and only in the second half did he realise (get shouted at) that he doesn't have ten minutes to make a pass.

Brent Stephens
46 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:57:20
I've not fancied Ross starting / appearing in previous games. But fair does, despite a few give-aways he looked quite good - potential.
John Smith
47 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:57:01
Did you see at the end Wenger completely blanking Moyes. Ooh la la he suis trés desolè et he suis débile profond. "They err uzed bad err tactics err Fellaini nasty player, all Everton playerz nasty."
Barry Stevens
48 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:50:39
Impressed with Barkley today. Hopefully let him have a run of games to end of season. Jags immense tonight,yet there still be the usual idiots on here moaning about him hoofing.

Looks like even europa could be out the window for us now

Patrick Murphy
49 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:57:14
I thought the referee was fair, maybe a bit quick to book the players, but I thought Arteta, Wilshire and Wenger were looking for the referee to send one of ours off,especially in the first half. I really dislike that sort of attitude and Mikel has gone down in my estimation.
Barry Rathbone
50 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:50:51
Much better than I expected, forceful and confident matched Arsenal throughout and it wouldn't have been a shock to have won.

At last I see what the talk about Barkley is - real footballer in there.

Has to be said Ossie, Hibbo are now squad players and it really has been a major mistake having Phil Nev in this year.

Genuine top 4 side there.

Denis Richardson
51 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:50:04
Arse fuckerty shit wipe wank!

Well can't ask anymore from the team. 1st XI and formation were spot on(ish); finally we had a midfield of Gibson and Fellaini in the middle which screened the back four well and broke up most of the Arsenal attacks.

The boys gave it a huge effort today, but alas it just wasn't to be. If Pienaar's shot had been lower, Barkley's curler a foot to the other side... ifs and buts, ifs and buts. Credit to the Ginger One this time, he went for it and on another day it may have come off.

Any negative marks... well just wouldn't be right if there wasn't any would it. Anichebe – sorry but WTF was up with him tonight? He 'put himself about a bit, but other than missing a decentish chance, falling over blades of grass a couple of times, and generally doing a hell of a lot of nothing, I really cannot remember any other contributions. Real hit and miss this kid. NAS – need another striker!

A point on the day was deserved; will it be enough? Doubtful... but I guess it's still mathematically possible. Onto the 'Special One Mk II' – any chance of Moyes doing a knee slider celebration on the weekend?

Would just luv it.......

MotM — many contenders but I'll give it to the skipper for a few 'body on the line' blocks although Kev M was a close second.

6 points above the RS now so something positive to take home...

Dean Adams
52 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:05:31
Coleman really is the mustard!! He was really hot, absolutely terrific tonight.
Ross Edwards
53 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:07:49
In future, I think we should definitely bank on Barkley as he was our best player by miles tonight. My MotM certainly.

I'm a Barkley's banker!

Si Cooper
54 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:03:40
Nick, if Barkley got reamed at any stage tonight he certainly didn't show it. Can't believe you don't think he showed enough in both halves to justify his inclusion.

He made a couple of bad choices in retaining the ball when he would have been better off-loading it quickly, but it looked to me that he made the necessary adjustment himself on the pitch, which indicates class to me.

Sean Patton
55 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:09:31
Bollocks that Nick, Barkley played well tonight that turn and through ball To Victor in the first half he did was quality.
Spragg Johnson
56 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:09:50
A decent enough attempt at snatching a result ... similar shots stats to an Arse side in pretty good form. Predictions (ok then ... guesses) of upcoming results would indicate that we'll finish above the red side ... but not make a European spot. Anyway, let's put Di Canio back in his place over the weekend.
Martin Handley
57 Posted 16/04/2013 at 21:55:22
You know what, guys, that was a great result and another clean sheet. Don't forget Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal all have some tricky games against each other left, so it's still all to play for.

Mirallas playing the hardman that was worth the Sky subscription alone!

Ross Edwards
58 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:15:03
Nick
It seems you expect Barkley to play like Xavi straightaway, but he's only 19 and this is only his 2nd full game. Give him time.
Nick Entwistle
59 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:11:17
I'd still go with a fit Ossie behind the striker. That's really my point. Barkley did well for himself but, well... as I said.

Sure you need game time to pick up the speed of the Prem but not with the run in with CL at steak... stake... stayque... Ossie first for me.

Kevin Tully
60 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:05:47
Denis, I am not a particularly big fan of Anichebe (who is?) but we really shouldn't judge any player, when at least 15 balls were twatted out of defence while he has his back to the goal.

I know some may say it's his job as CF - but it is a thankless task on your own with no support.

Jagielka really needs to cut the hoofing out while there is no pressure on the ball. We would get taught a lesson playing like this in Europe.

Nick Entwistle
61 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:16:42
You're right Ross, but only because you said so.
Brent Stephens
63 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:18:14
Agree, Kevin. Vic on Saturday had balls to his body (if u know what I mean!) that he was able to control. Tonite all to his head.
Paul David
64 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:14:29
A very good nil-nil. Jagielka as MotM, closely followed by Coleman; Barkley played very well and looked the most likely to create a goal. Typical performance from Anichebe, beaten to every ball all night and in the end was doing nothing but strolling around the pitch. Arsenal are a team of bitches, especially Wilshire, and Arteta was a prick as well.
Paul Andrews
65 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:19:02
Barkley is 19 years of age, as has been pointed out. That is the first time the vast majority of you will have seen him play in his best position. Anyone who cant see the potential top class ability of the lad knows nothing about football, in my opinion.
Barry Stevens
66 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:17:21
Kevin Tully re Jags. So the guy stops everything thrown at us. Wins m.o.m yet you moan he hoofs it. Do you understand a defenders job? This is not fifa on xbox its real life
Paul David
67 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:19:45
Kevin

It might be a thankless task but he still lost every header and by Arteta on 3 occasions.

Kunal Desai
68 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:19:51
A point against an inform Arsenal side tonight wasn't bad, I can accept tonight's results albeit top 4 is all but gone, we've played well throughout and at times looked threatening in period. What I cannot accept is rolling over and dieing against the shittiest red shites in living memory last year, not once but on two occasions
Mike Corcoran
69 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:24:22
Seamus is really coming on. Although he looks like he dribbles more with his mouth than his feet. He looks like Ian McKellen in Walter. I think I love him though!
Norman Merrill
70 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:14:53
It says something, when fans are disappointed with just a point, we had heroes all over the park, and yes there was one or two who could have done better.

If I had to name one or two, who shone, then Jags & Seamus with Fellaini never let the side down. We need more of the same at Sunderland on Saturday; I would like to think that Ross did enough to keep his place, but we need a bit more cutting edge up front.

Ok, so we never got the 3pts, let's hope Saturday brings that reward.

Kevin Tully
71 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:27:50
Barry, next time Jagielka plays for England, watch very carefully, you might learn something.
Nick Entwistle
72 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:29:51
Sunderland's first home game with Di Canio in charge... I think its all bluster. Should be a breeze as defensively they're no great shakes. Our defence will be able to hold their marauding selves.

Just did the results predictor on BBC, with no bias at all we come 4th by a point. Heard it here first.

James Morgan
74 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:28:09
A decent performance tonight, though Pienaar wasn't great. Coleman showed his class again and Mirallas loves a trick, it's great to see.

Barkley got into the game and I'm positive for his future with us, he learned as he went on.

Jamie Barlow
75 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:13:46
I thought they all, barring Vic and maybe Pienaar played really well. Arsenals centre halves were all over Vic. Pienaar justs frustrates me. He can play some great balls and is always on the move but messes up so many simple passes its untrue.

Ross really improved in the second half and I thought I was going to watch more of the usual I've seen when he's played early in the first half. Tries to do to much but not quick enough. Second half he really got into the game and a couple of inches ruined his Rooney moment. Looks good to me.

All the back 4 and Felli were superb with Coleman getting better and better. Jagielka, Fellaini and Distin put in tackle after tackle with Jagielka getting my Motm.

Shitty behaviour from Arsenal. Wilshere and Arteta being the worst of the lot.

Iain Johnston
76 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:30:24
MASSIVE performance. Well done blues!. Beat the fascists on Saturday then to our old ground and do the RS. Fifth and Europa league
John Gee
77 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:29:46
Nick Entwistle, I'm with you on Ross Barkley. He looks great but he's taking too long to decide what he's going to do. He's got the skill, physique and competitiveness to make a midfield general. All he needs now is that Scholesesque knowing what he's going to do with the ball before the ball comes to him. If he can get his thought process so far advanced then I think we might be looking at something very special.
Charles McCann
78 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:30:52
Thought Moyes finally got the team selection spot on tonight. We tired in the second half and things just didnt go well for Anichebe tonight but I would like to think Moyes will stick with him as he has alot of potential. Despite giving the ball away cheaply a few times Barkley looks class. Jags, Coleman and Fellaini were fantastic. really enjoyable game.
Mark Frere
79 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:13:35
Ross Edwards 252
You've got to be joking barkley MOTM. They was plenty of potential clearly for all to see, but lets not get carried away. I thought Coleman was MOTM, this lad just gets better and better, I thought his defending was top draw tonight , he's looking like the complete RB at the moment.
Kevin Tully
80 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:40:29
Exactly Mark, and not a hoof in sight from young Seamus!
Patrick Murphy
82 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:41:10
Barkley has good potential but he has also picked up four yellows despite his limited appearances, I still think he will make it but he needs more game time. If Victor and Jelly can't cut the mustard up front away from home, we'll have to consider playing KM in a lone role up front and maybe that will encourage us to stop aimlessly punting the ball up the park.
Ben Jones
83 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:25:01
That was a really intriguing 0-0 er that was, and for once, I actually agree with the majority of comments on here, apart from Nick who thought Barkley was rubbish.

While watching Sky, I saw the stat "Everton 55% possession, 45% Arsenal", I thought ey?! What's Moyes up to?

You know why, because Fellaini dropped further back, and Barkley, a genuine ball player played further forward. I'm not trying to credit Barkley too much, as Osman could do just as good as there too, but Fellaini further back was a good move, we dominated the midfield bar the last 20 mins with Gibson and Fellaini in there. it was a great balance.

Now if we sold Fellaini in the summer, that would be the way to go. Buy a genuine ball, massively tall, strong midfield player (Fer) and buy a good, creative player in the whole. Makes better football.

Defence was magnificent. Coleman was awesome, and was actually my motm, closely followed by Jagielka, who showed why Arsenal should have bought him. Baines isn't his usual self, but thats not his fault, its because opposition teams realise how much of a threat he is now. There is always a winger on him.

Downside, and the only dissappointing player, was Anichebe. I know he didnt get much service, but he has been really good at bullying defenders recently. He tried to be fair, but Koscielny and Mertesacker always got the better of him, which I found dissappointing.

But fair play for Moyes picking the right team, having a go, he could have easily picked Neville or Heitinga over Barkley in midfield, and I know that would have pissed off the haters a lot. Still a little chance of 4th, so let's have a go!!

Nick Entwistle
85 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:48:37
Ben, show me where I said that Barkley was rubbish.

I said he showed why he hasn't been picked, i.e. behind Osman.

Lee Browne
86 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:46:37
Great battling performance from the lads.

Coleman — what a game! Outstanding from start to finish. MotM!

John Gee
87 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:47:04
Ben, I thought Victor did ok. Sure he didn't roll a defender or dominate the air but he took 2 of their players out of the game for almost all of the 95 minutes. I bet both of those centre backs have walked off that pitch thankful that they didn't concede but they were also prevented by Victor from adding to the game. It was a good, workman like performance away from home, just a pity that a good set piece didn't drop for him.
Ben Jones
88 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:54:58
I'm sorry, I initially saw a negative comment, and rubbish came to mind.
Paul David
89 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:53:50
Nick

I thought Barkley was looking to play the through ball a lot more than Ossie does, Ossie is capable of doing it but looks to go wide instead. We really do need to try playing the ball behind defenders more often instead of nearly all attacks coming from the flanks. I would like to see Mirallas up front with that type of service.

Clive Lewis
90 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:52:34
Barkley was excellent apart from a few naive passes where he panicked. Jagielka fantastic, fellaini good, shame that Gibson didnt have a great game and I Pieenaar usual self. Coleman saved the game with the last ditch challenge in the box, Distan was good. Anichebe I thought tried hard but did not hold the ball up much, cannot remember once where he won a header and directed it to another blue. Shame we did not buy a striker we well may have won that game.
Mark Frere
91 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:50:08
Doesn't Jelavic understand the offside rule? There was a point in the game where Gibson wanted to pass to him,but he was offside so in the end Gibson had the intelligence to ignore him and put in a great ball for Mirallas, this was our best chance in the second half and I expected Mirallas to do better with it
Ciaran Duff
92 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:50:53
Great game and probably fair result. Our defence was massive. Not a huge Barkley fan but I thought he did well tonight and suits the "Ossie" role just behind the striker where he has more freedom. Be good to see him get more game time to build up his experience. Fellaini was awesome in MF. You can see that he loves that role.

I did think that Moyes could have brought on Oviedo (for Pienaar) with about 15 or 20 to go. The guy looks tidy to me and I think Pienaar needs a bit of a kick up the arse.

Si Cooper
93 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:53:25
Sorry Nick, but I am not sure how effective Ossie would have been against the mobile and industrious Arsenal midfield.

Ossie is an accomplished player but I think that Ross Barkley has the edge on him physically even now.

It is a very close call, in my opinion, over who should get the most game time from here on in. I would prefer Ossie to start and Ross to be the understudy (with plenty of time coming off the bench) but would not be too worried if Ossie was unavailable and the lad had to take a more prominent role.

John Hughes
94 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:45:00
Some observations:-
a))Overall a very good team performance and great commitment from all concerned
b) Arsenal are a shower of cheating bastards - Arteta included
c) Barkley needs 3 seconds more to think than a top class player needs - shame but he won't be top drawer
d) Vic needs to man up
e) Bainsey is knackered
f) if we can get 20m + for Fellaini then we should bite the proverbial hand off whoever's stupid enough
g) Jags should be knighted
h) all kopites are gobshites despite recent events
I) Bill should get his long awaited Oscar after yesterday's performance
j) we will finish 6th
k) all kopites are gobshites
l) Goodnight all fellow blue boys
Tom Bowers
95 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:50:11
This was a predictable result as I had thought earlier in the day but it was an up-and-down game from Everton's point of view. They could have won it early but poor finishing and a lot of poor passing allowed Arsenal to get most of the control later on but some great defending gained a deserved point when three is what they really wanted.

I think this may have been a coming of age game for Barkley who showed a lot of good things although he drifted out of the game for short spells. Unfortunately he will probably miss the Sunderland game but Ossie will be back and he normally has a decent game against the likes of the Black Cats.

Still, we are 6 points ahead of RS and the prospect of whacking them in a couple of weeks. Moyes may have one more chance of beating a top club away with the Blues when they go to Chelski at the end of the season — assuming Moyes is moving on!

Paul David
96 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:57:35
John

Are you being serious? I bet the 2 Arsenal centre backs were thinking that was the easiest game they've had all season. It didn't matter if it was in the air or on the floor they got to the ball first, every time with ease. By the second half they had realised this and had stopped getting a strong head on the ball and were able to head the ball down to a team mate while Anichebe let them.

Barry Stevens
97 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:57:49
Kevin Tully. When i've seen him play for England,his passing has been good. Is that what you're getting at?
Clive Lewis
98 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:02:50
John disagree with the Barkley comment, he showed everyone that he can and will I expect be top drawer.
John Gee
99 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:59:35
At times Barkley received the ball and could have turned into space and looked to move the ball forward but instead played it back to Felli or a defender whereas Osman would have probably been more aware of what was around him. Having said that, Barkley was aware enough to find the space which isn't always easy in a Hare'em/Scare'em league.

I think it was Spartak Moscow in the 70's where the manager made all the players learn chess and then integrated it into their training. Maybe Barkley would benefit from studying art history. The whole 'further thought' outlook would give him such an edge.

Dave White
101 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:02:07
A very good result against an in form side, Coleman superb, he really does look like the real deal.

I felt Peanuts chance early doors was the one, but the reply shows it bobbles just before he strikes it, I think he needed to be cuter and try the little dink over the keeper.

Draw fair result though. Barkley impressive. With the fixtures to come we're not out of it yet! COYB!

John Gee
102 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:10:19
Paul, I disagree. It's easy to think that Victor didn't much because he didn't do a single thing that was eye catching but, he didn't give them much peace. He spent the first 20-30 minutes bullying them and they spent the rest of the game very weary of him. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying he was MOTM or anything, just that he gave both of them something to worry about. as I said, a good away performance albeit without that one great chance.
David King
103 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:05:45
Fantastic performance. Defence was superb, we were the better team and should have won. They are such a shower of cheating bastards.

Jags, Fellaini, Gibson, Barkley, Coleman all superb... yet still complaints from people who know nothing about football and have obviously never played the game.

John Hughes
104 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:17:44
Paul - 300. See points (a) and (d). I think we pretty much agree with one another!
Ian Bennett
105 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:14:12
It was a good team selection/set up from Moyes, although the cupboard is pretty sparse. In terms of Barkley, I thought he was really bright but was ready to come off. He isn't 3 seconds off the pace in the slightest. A smart shot and turn away from Arteta showed his potential. His one failing is his left foot. A couple of moves were forced backwards because he delayed the pass in favour of his right.

I thought Vic did alright, although I'd like ti see Mirallas through the middle on his own at some point ala Ronaldo. Special mention to Jags and Coleman, both were rocks.

John Gee
106 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:22:55
John Hughes, I have to take issue with you over your points H and K. I will be reporting you to the moderators of this site and asking for your membership to be withdrawn and you banned from this site.

The 'g' should be capitalised.

Brent Stephens
107 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:28:12
Capital, John, capital!
Denis Richardson
108 Posted 16/04/2013 at 22:20:31
Kevin - it wasn't his inability to control difficult balls today that I was referring to. How many times was the guy on the ground or just strolling about? He's a big lad but, other than pure size, he really does have very little else to offer most of the time. It's also not as if he's just 'finding his feet', this is his 7th season since making his debut.

I am not expecting striking abilities à la Ronaldo (1st one) or Drogba, but to be playing at this level you would expect 110% commitment and less rolling on the grass and waving arms about.

Players like Kevin Davies and Grant Holt don't have that much skill but they make the most of what they have and regularly provide the goods for their team. Anyway, just my opinion of Big Vic. Let's go back to the general team effort and be proud of the overall performance, even though we didn't get the 3 points.

Ben Jones
110 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:31:56
John G, you ain't serious are ya?

Paul was only having a joke around.

Ben Jones
111 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:35:38
I'm sorry John, I have only just got the joke now, literally when I just posted the comment.

Ignore the comment, feel free to joke about it.

Patrick Murphy
112 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:32:46
It's a real shame that our challenge for Europe will in all probability be undermined by having the most ineffective strikers in the whole of the league. Imagine if Jelly had arrived this January and had have had the same impact as he did when he first came.

The problem with playing Felli deeper was that it seemed to take an age for the midfield to get up the pitch although I do think he makes our midfield play better when he stays in what is his natural position. How much is it going to cost us to find a new striker in the summer as, to all intents and purposes, it looks like Jelly won't be here at the start of next season.

Anichebe tries hard but he rarely looks like getting a goal even from set-pieces especially away from home. I read somewhere today that out of our last 53 away games we have only managed 13 wins, I haven't checked on it, but that is something we have to work on if we really want to challenge at the top end of the league that and a fully functioning striker of course.

I wonder could we afford Andy Carroll? Don't all shout at once it's only a thought.

John Gee
113 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:33:55
If Coleman had a bit more hype, more defenders would shit themselves when he got the ball. He has all the makings of a really exciting player. All in all, with another one or two players pushing for the first team, we're not in that bad a position.

Although I wouldn't complain if we went out and spent £30-40 million. Or even if we went to pay a club a £20m for a player and then at the last minute pulled out of the deal and released the following statement: 'Everton football club was about to buy a player from an unnamed club for £20m but have decided to spend that money on supplying drinking water to millions of poor people who have been ignored by their own country and the international world police.'

Wouldn't that make a nice change.

John Gee
114 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:44:49
No worries Ben. You get a more honest response on here from people who are quick on the draw. Sometimes it goes it goes wrong but rough with the smooth, brother.
Phil Bellis
115 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:51:59
Arteta – not the Everton way, was it, Mikel?
Not often you see our old boys negating their roots
Still...sad
Stuart O'Malley
116 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:52:23
Heard on the radio in Dublin tonight that two unnamed clubs, one English the other foreign, matched Fellaini's buy-out clause on transfer Deadline Day in August, but Blue Bill persuaded him to stay for this season by upping his wages to £6 million for the year. It was on Off the Ball, a reputable sports program on Irish radio. Apparently came from an official from Monaco FC.
Jamie Sweet
117 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:04:52
I thought Barkley looked great in patches. Certainly did enough for me to merit a starting place.

It’s a massive step up from U21 to top flight football, and at times he looked like a player that was used to playing at a level where he gets given a lot more space and time on the ball.

I don’t think it will take him too long to get up to speed with the pace of the Premier League if he starts getting more regular game time.

There’s no doubt that he is a massive talent and one that I think will blossom if given the opportunity to play and allow his confidence to grow.

John Gee
118 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:03:47
Phil, when he put his elbow out to infer to the ref that Gibbo had elbowed their player when all he did was not avoid a challenge had me spitting feathers, I thought that was out of order. Maybe it was just his competitive spirit coming out. Plus, his name is so synonymous with Everton that maybe he feels he has something to prove to his manager and fans.
Patrick Murphy
119 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:01:25
Phil it also proves that Wenger instills this attitude into his teams with little criticism by the media. According to my little predictive league we are going to have to win all of our remaining games as it has Spurs and Arsenal tied on 70 points and the max we can get is 71, so there we go 5 more wins and its ours - if only it was that simple.

I don't know how the commentators reacted to the various ploys of gamesmanship but I got fed up watching the replays of anything that may be construed as a foul. Also KM was onside in the first half when a goalscoring chance may have arisen for him only to be flagged by a linesman on that side of the pitch, it must be full of vociferous Arsenal fans on that side of the ground. Why doesn't it work for us at Goodison? as the Linesmen on the Bullens road side seem to give us nothing.

Talking of Linesmen how or why was it decided that the Linesmen take up the same positions at every ground e.g. one on the Bullens road side running the line towards the St. End and the other running the line on the Goodison Rd. side towards the Park End? Has this always been the case?


Eugene Ruane
120 Posted 16/04/2013 at 23:54:15
Random thoughts.

Coleman's has run his blood to water in recent weeks and appears to be (before our eyes) growing into a role many (like me) doubted he would.

Barkley showed enough tonight imo to be given an extended run. It will do him and the team no harm and to pick on him for giving the ball away a couple of times - plain daft (not to mention INCREDIBLY selective).

We put in a real shift tonight and at times played some good stuff but (again) far too often we treat the ball like a drunken sailor in a brothel treats his money.

There were SO many times when a square ball would have done, instead it was hoofed down the throat of their centre-half or keeper and was coming back at us a couple of seconds later.

Can't complain (a lot) with a point away to Arsenal though.

By the way, was it just me or did Victor look like he'd put on 2 stone since the weekend?

Patrick Murphy
121 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:14:38
Stuart #320 I wonder if that story has a ring of truth to it, it may also explain why our Croatian forward has not been up to scratch and appearing pissed off for most of the season. I've had a nagging doubt all season that money may be the reason for Jelly's fall from grace.
Ian Campbell
122 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:15:17
Thought Barkley did ok, gave the ball away twice and left us exposed but overall was decent enough and good experience for him, decent shot just wide too.

Shame that Mirrallas had a heavy touch towards the end as that was a great chance to seal it.

Likely out of CL but enhanced our bid for europa as Spurs have some tough fixtures.

John Gee
123 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:15:54
Eugene, spot on. Victor and Coleman looked as if they had put on a bit of weight although it's more noticeable on Victor.

I think the hoofs down field were a by product of being pushed back, the midfield were protecting the back four so much in the second half that it effected their dynamism and movement going forward.

Andy Crooks
124 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:22:06
I am so pleased for Seamus Coleman, I knew without a doubt that he would be top class. I thought it was a passionate performance tonight and I thought Barkley was fine. You know, I'm starting to think that Moyes knows what he's doing with regard to young players.

Shit ,forgot about Duffy. If Moyes sees the light with him, and, much as I championed Seamus, I believe Duffy is the better prospect, I make consider becoming an apologist. Terrific performance from the players and the coach.

Ernie Baywood
125 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:31:24
Coleman MOTM followed by Fellaini but Barkley really stood out for me. That turn and through ball to Vic was outstanding. In fact, all the instinctive things were good. When he has time he overthinks and makes some bad decisions. Only one solution to that - games in the attacking mid role (undoubtedly his best position right now). Over to you Mr Moyes...
Gavin Ramejkis
126 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:31:53
The long high balls to Anichebe were a waste of time as more often than not Mertesacker would just win them and the ones Anichebe dd manage to get to went straight to an Arsenal defender as he was stranded up top alone, didn't look like a good idea for this game at all. If you want to beat Mertesacker it should be running directly at him as his lack of pace is his weakness.
Andy Crooks
127 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:42:33
By the way, I hate "apologist" and it was tongue in cheek.
Ernie Baywood
128 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:43:11
I actually think that was the plan, Gavin. Arsenal have real pace and when they catch a stray midfield ball they're running straight at the defence. It's when they are most dangerous.

I think the plan was to press high, win ball, and play in the last third. But if no route through presented then hit Vic and try to feed off him. We had some success first half but Vic got more and more isolated as the game wore on. Tough job for him tonight, though I thought he worked hard.

Mike Green
129 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:58:45
Just got in from the game. Great performance from the lads, did miss a bit of fluency, more Guns of Navarone than Torville and Dean but happy widths point.

Man of the Match - JAGS. Fantastic, Captains performance.

James Flynn
130 Posted 17/04/2013 at 00:31:41
I'm all in for Coleman.

And young Ross was never 3 seconds behind anything. Bily was alway 3 seconds behind. He couldn't help it. The kid Ross was tossed into the cauldron at 19 and held his own. Please Moyes, play him on the weekend. Sunderland isn't Arsenal away. Not close.

And, again, Coleman!

James Flynn
131 Posted 17/04/2013 at 01:27:19
By the way, we and the other 3 clubs have to play out the last 15 points. They need to win too.

We're still in the hunt for Top 4.

Patrick Murphy
132 Posted 17/04/2013 at 01:42:14
Let's all hope Fulham have a good week they play Chelsea and Arsenal in the next week at the Cottage.With Spurs entertaining City and the Dark Side at home to Chelsea on Sunday, if we could manage to win at Sunderland, then we could be still in with a chance by this time next week.
Ernie Baywood
133 Posted 17/04/2013 at 01:56:57
I did think that had we won tonight we might have gone 3rd on Saturday.

Dreams are free, hey.

Patrick Murphy
134 Posted 17/04/2013 at 02:01:03
That's the trouble Ernie, dreams are free but realising them is mighty expensive.
Jamie Crowley
135 Posted 17/04/2013 at 01:44:21
Decent game. Wanted all 3 points so I feel a bit disappointed.

The moment's silence, having been born in Boston, was exquisite. It was greatly appreciated by myself and I'm sure any other Evertonians living in the Greater Boston area. Well done.

Even the NY Yankees will be singing "Sweet Caroline" tonight and put signs out front of Yankee Stadium - "United We Stand". James Flynn - sing it loudly please as I would for you and I know you and all Yankees fans will do for the tragedy in Boston.

Absolutely gutted and repulsed a small minority on our live forum thought the moment's silence for Bostonians was a waste of time.

Un-fahkin-beliavable.

Great class (dripping with sarcasm there) shown by the one or two on the live forum that simply had to say the "why bother with it" or "how bout the fact the US killed XX number of people yesterday..."

Heartless, gormless jack-wagons.

Seriously, show some class.

James Flynn
136 Posted 17/04/2013 at 03:05:02
Jamie - Didn't waste time on moments of silence.

Spent it better hurling curses at my TV, watching what happened.

There's some low-rent cocksuckers amongst us. Hate when they're mis-described as terrorists. Hate that. Low-rent cocksuckers best describes them. They've earned no description better. None.

Hope you didn't lose anyone.

James Flynn
137 Posted 17/04/2013 at 03:32:40
As far as the comments . .. . . . Be like you and me wondering what Bill was going on about at the tribute for the 96. We knew better, of course.

There's a moron or 2 in every discussion. Toffeeweb's not exempt.

Leave it at that.

James Flynn
138 Posted 17/04/2013 at 04:01:22
Apologies to ToffeeWebbers. Jamie was on about Red Sox folk, not anyone here.

Apologies.

Ernie Baywood
139 Posted 17/04/2013 at 04:26:27
Back to the football. Seems strange that, while most Evertonians have written off our chances of top four after draws at Spurs and Arsenal, the media seem to think those displays demonstrate that we are in with a fighting chance.
Wayne McNee
140 Posted 17/04/2013 at 04:13:20
We tore Arsenal a new arse hole for the first 20 mins! The rest of the game was pretty even & pretty enjoyable for a stalemate.

For all those screaming for Barkley to get a start all season (me included) You were right!! Never has the phrase "Like a new signing" been so apt. And I consider that his first proper appearance... Welcome Ross!

Seamus was excellent (as he has been in recent times). He's had the proverbial "balls" since day one but he's blossoming into the real deal & turning out to be an absolute bargain with a sound attitude.

Having something on both wings is feeling quite luxurious. Most of the entertainment was on the right though tonight, with the Baines / Pienaar combo feeling a bit stale of late. Mirallas & his moments of magic has almost erased Arteta's (who was a twat BTW) silky skills from memory.

Overall I'm proud to support that team! I'm not going to praise DM because that's the team we've been begging for all season & we've squandered points & results whilst he's dithered with his character selections as opposed to quality.

Paul Gladwell
141 Posted 17/04/2013 at 06:36:18
Barkley looked shaky at first but grew in confidence, that's generally what happens when you play more and the proof was Coleman, how many on here last season and the start of this season said he cannot defend? The lad was immense last night, if people want to pick at Barkleys passing try looking at how many times Pienaar and even Baines gave the ball away last night, give the lad more game time and we have a cracker on our hands, for all his inexperience in losing possession occasionally, he was the one who could have grabbed us something.
Kevin O'Regan
142 Posted 17/04/2013 at 07:53:20
Coleman was my MOTM, so young, focused, hard working and what a bargain buy. Jags + Distin were excellent, Baines + Peanuts were weak - especially peanuts, too weak and lightweight and caught up with flair rather than doing the simple things right. Felli got Barkley out of trouble a few times, did a decent defence job except for that shocker clearance that a schoolboy would get grief for. Kevin M. again excellent although tired a bit, just like Vic. -would really like to see Velios get a game or half a game very soon - and sorry to say it be Steven Naismith just doesn't add much for me. I'm happy with Europa League if we get there - CL is a step too far I would think (unless the Fairy Godmother turns up soon).
Peter Bell
143 Posted 17/04/2013 at 07:56:04
Got to hold my hands up and say I regret once calling Seamus Coleman a one trick pony. The guy (again) was immense last night, good on him for proving me wrong.
Phil Sammon
144 Posted 17/04/2013 at 08:04:33
I actually thought Naismith did ok when he came on. Which is high praise indeed for a guy I would gladly never again see in a blue shirt.

I think everyone has been praised who deserves it. Some great performances out there.

Baines was very average. Pienaar's run of bad form goes on. His middle range passing has always been woeful in my opinion - but lately he's even giving away 5 yard balls. I can allow those two an awful lot though, they carried the team for months and everyone is allowed a dip in form.

Victor didn't look interested all game. Doesn't help when you're getting 60 yard balls drilled at your head all night - but he didn't put the effort in. I do wish we had Vellios or McAleny on the bench. It would just give us some different kind of options to change the game.

Apologies for a negative post. I thought we did really well, but you've got to have a few little gripes.

On to Sunderland and three more points please.

Kevin O'Regan
145 Posted 17/04/2013 at 08:03:26
@ John Hughes 298: if you are refering to Bills speech at Anfield - I can't understand football rivarly going to the extent that you loathe him for speaking there, and speaking very well. Most people said it was an excellent speech, I#d say good speech, shows a bit of humanity about him, which if I have understood correctly is not something you seem to posess. Apologies if I have misunderstood.

And back tho this thread - Jags does tne dto hoof too much, but in games like last night it was too dangerous to mess around at the back - but if he has time then yes he should (as defenders in teh 21st Century) should be doing is playing a pass forward - no idea why we tend to face Tim Howard for so many passes and are afraid to move fwd. instead of back, back back.
And yes, we did go in hard last night, ref. allowed a certain amount to get through and should have stepped in earlier - although tthat's the commitment I want to see from our lads, we need to be more careful this time of year in such games. Luck lad Gibbo. No excuse however for begging for a card for others. We'd never do that at EFC !!

Paul Andrews
146 Posted 17/04/2013 at 08:09:40
Eugene,
Your right about Seamus,I was one of them who didn't rate his chances.100% wrong.Apart from the odd lapse in concentration which will sharpen up the more games he plays he looks a really good full back in the making.

Re Vic and the two stone.He was back to his old self last night after a few good displays in the last weeks.
He would be better if he could grow two stones.Too much of the complaining for me.

Jimmy Sørheim
147 Posted 17/04/2013 at 08:47:06
I always knew Arsenal away would be the toughest of all our remaining away matches. I feel we should have done better at Spurs, as a draw here at The Emirates leaves us even further behind again.

To reach 4th or better we need to win against Liverpool away and Chelsea away, I think these two are the best bet if we are going to win away.

Chelsea can be beaten for sure, but Liverpool always mans up when they play us just like Arsenal did yesterday. I think we must win at Chelsea, there is no way around it.

I am worried about Moyes picking Jelavic when he can use both Vellios who actually can score or McAleny who has done great for the U-21 and deserves to play a lot more then Jelavic does!!!

James Fletcher
148 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:10:00
What the f@ck has happened to Pienaar, he can't pass more than five yards, he's lost any pace that he had, he always cuts back when on a break and he can't seem to even tackle.

The rest of the lads put in a great shift, especially Coleman and Distin.

Brian Harrison
149 Posted 17/04/2013 at 08:48:01
I think Everton showed that home or away we can compete with the best, no negative thoughts last night and looked to impose themselves from the off. I think the only thing that has stopped us being in a better position is a top quality striker.

I think if we had a Van Persie,Suarez,Rooney,Aguero or Torres( his Liverpool form) we would easily qualify for Champions league. Problem is that all these players cost in excess of £20 million money we don't have. Defensively we look as good as any of the top teams in the Prem, and can hold our own with most in midfield.

This summer will be the most important time for the club in the past 20 years, I think we have never been better placed to reach top 4 but we need to supply the manager with the funds that makes him stay and allows him to compete for the top 4.

Dave White
150 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:09:36
I think Vic's getting rough treatment from some on here, the role he's being asked to play (having long balls lumped to him with his back to goal) is very tricky especially when he's the loan striker. Agreed he wasn't as effective tonight as he has been in recent matches but he still harried and hassled to an admirable extent, I think some credit needs to go the Arsenal centre backs for that. Just me or did Jelly look clueless when he came on, standing offside when screaming for the ball? It's a frightening fall from form.
John Ford
151 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:22:21
Brian, I agree. When you look at who Arsenal had to turn to on their subs bench its not really any surprise that we were a bit off the pace in the last ten. Also VIc was quite inefective last night which inevitably blunted our attacking intentions.

The edge that the top teams have by virtue of having world class cover in key positions, particulalry attacking, is frustrating. As you say defensively we are as good as most - Distin chasing down Walcott was great to see last night, but we don't have the attacking prowess or the speed of thought which comes with top players, and the money isn't there to change this position.

Credit to the team last night. I don't believe we could ask any more of them for effort but also trying to work the ball through Arsenal.

Steven Telford
152 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:31:44
Vic has ONE attribute, that being he is big and physically intimidates defenders. Other than that there is absolutely nothing to this his game. In his previous 2 games there were hints that he added “holding ability” to his armory, but now even that looks in doubt. He had a couple of above average games, and people were singing his praises, I personally felt that those last few (2 I think games) in which people were saying he was good were completely overtrumped, for one that last goal of his really belonged to Distan.

Ok, one fair concession would be that playing the lone striker in that game was rough.

“EFC approaching a quarter of a century without a truly top class sticker”

Yelavich is surely out of form, but he is better than Vic. He should have been put on at half time, and what the fuck does Oviedo have to do to get a proper chance.

Brent Stephens
153 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:47:20
Steven - the ball was lumped up to Vic's head last night, not where he could hold it up. The lad had no chance.
Graham Mockford
154 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:51:01
Anichebe was pretty ineffective yesterday mainly because he was isolated and most of the service he received was in the air. I was impressed by Barkley but he naturally plays a little deeper than when Fellaini occupies that position.
I think our passing game suffered a bit through missing Osman who tends to bring the wider players into the game a bit more.
Defensively I thought we were great with Fellaini and Gibson really putting themselves about and all the back four played well.
We are obviously still an outside bet but I still think 13 points qualifies for the CL, therefore a draw is not yet the end.
Jim Knightley
155 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:51:50
I thought we were fantastic defensively...Jags was incredible, and Coleman wasnt far behind. And Distin is superb. Offensively we tried, but did not really look like breaking Arsenal down in the second half. I don't think that was a tactical issue though..just a lack of options/the best second half team in the division coming into the game more.

And a little harsh on Vic. He is not, and is never going to be world class, and he was up against two very good cb's yesterday, without much service at all. We will need to invest in another striker, from assumed Fellaini money I think...

Barkley is a bit slow in possession and gives the ball away too much..but I think he showed his potential and, away at the Emirates, came extremely close to scoring a screamer, and played in Anichebe superbly. Hopefully next season we will see increasingly more of him.

Mohammed Horoub
156 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:19:29
I agree that Coleman was MOTM. The tone the team set in the first half was really impressive and the Arsenal player's reaction to it was sad. Even Arteta has become a whiner and he was never like that when he played with us. Whatever failings we feel Moyes may have I have to admit that he has always had the team play honestly and with an excellent attitude. A point at Arsenal is not a bad result but I would have liked to have seen Moyes respond to Wenger's double switch. Barkley and Vic were exhausted and maybe Oviedo could have been brought in with Jelavic with Pienaar taking Barkley's role.
Overall team played really well and Limited Arsenal's attacking threat for most of the game.
Tough game on Saturday. Hope Fulham can help us out tonight...
James Fletcher
157 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:55:34
What was unfortunate was that when it was punted up and he occasionally won it there was noone around to catch hold of the flick on. By the time the team had learned to aim it at his chest he was so knackered the ball was actually knocking him over.

As for Jelavic I have no idea what has been said to him but he seems to be avoiding the box like the plague.

Jon Withey
158 Posted 17/04/2013 at 10:01:44
I'd say Vic isn't a bad finisher tbh. Jelavic looks completely lost at the moment and falls over more than Vic does now.
Paul David
159 Posted 17/04/2013 at 09:52:44
Brent

Regardless of the type of ball Anichebe received, do you think its acceptable for a 6ft2 striker thats built like a boxer to lose every single header? Theres something else that I don't think gets mentioned as much as it should and thats his shite ability at attacking crosses.

We send in more crosses a game than most teams yet Anichebe rarely gets on the end of them ( mostly because he was deeper earlier in the move and played a simple 5 yard ball wide and believes he's done enough and doesn't have to bust a gut to get into the area, honestly watch our recent attacks and how many times theres 2 or 3 players ahead of Anichebe). Only twice in the last two games did he attack (or try to) a cross. Against Q.P.R he had a free header from a great cross and appeared to wait till it had passed him before making a half arsed attempt at a jump. Last night he had another good chance, fair enough the area was packed but he should be able to direct his header towards goal not just be pleased to get his head on it and send it miles over the bar.

And what Anichebe performance would be complete without his made up injuries. Yet again he stopped playing while he stroked his leg after a nothing challage. We had the ball while this was going on and had to stop an attack because Anichebe had decided to rule himself out for 3 minutes.

Barry Rathbone
160 Posted 17/04/2013 at 10:03:09
Completely disagree with criticism of Anichebe the lad is doing the dog work harassing back passes to the keeper on his jack. He may not be Berbatov but criticising his effort is plain wrong, he's entitled to be blowing after 80 mins doing that.

Seminal moment for me first time I've felt a smattering of hope in years. If Arsenal had fluked a win I wouldn't have moaned we looked a genuinely good side with a great blend of youth, toughness and skill. Please, please don't retreat now Mr Moyes - we'll win more than we lose with this side and ethos - might even win at you know where!!!

Ray Jacques
161 Posted 17/04/2013 at 10:20:10
Ive savaged Coleman on here in the past. However, the last 6 or so games he's been our best player. (even better recently than our left back) so credit to him.

Hopefully he will continue to improve and prove me wrong. Also the manager may have learnt that if he gives a youngster a decent and uninterrupted run in the team, the improvement and confidence will follow. ie play Barkley from the start for the remainder of the season. Ossie will need to sit on the bench which solves the usual Toffeeweb moans of a Neville/Osman centre mid once and for all!!!!!

James Fletcher
162 Posted 17/04/2013 at 10:29:22
Agree with you there Barry.
Paul Olsen
163 Posted 17/04/2013 at 10:34:06
Anichebe was fine yesterday. He worked really hard, running after lost causes all night.

Of course, when most of the ball directed towards you are way off or punted towards Mertesacker you know you are in for a tough night.
He got plenty of bruises I am sure, he gave a few away as well. Average game at the best for Anichebe, but can`t fault him for trying.

If there was one player who didn`t have his best day yesterday it was Pienaar.. As always full of energy, but the amount of awful passes from easy positions made it a night not to remember for him. Mirallas also wasn`t fantastic, but he put in a decent shift nevertheless.

Overall a good performance, no-one lacked trying.

Coleman and Barkley were both lauded in the tv-studio here in Norway after the game, well deserved on both of them

Derek Thomas
164 Posted 17/04/2013 at 10:00:49
Draws have done us no favours season long and at the business end of the season all draws between the top 3 to 7 will do is maintain the status quo.
Jimmy Sørheim
165 Posted 17/04/2013 at 10:59:44
I have a problem with Barkley in that he is too slow in everything he does. It almost seems like he does not care about if we win or not. He needs to pay attention to players around him and act much faster than he does, also he needs to run his socks off like the rest of the team does.

He has no injury so I think it is an attitude problem, maybe a fallout with Moyes. I can not see Barkley being a PL player unless he addresses those things. Frankly it makes me angry to see a youngster being so slow on the ball, even Neville is faster than Barkley when on the ball.

Barkley has mental things to work on, he is overrated right now and needs to get real.

Brent Stephens
166 Posted 17/04/2013 at 11:11:51
Paul #389 6'2'' he might be but try winning a ball in the air when you have your back to goal against a player of at least equal height. You're at an immediate disadvantage.
Derek Thomas
167 Posted 17/04/2013 at 11:13:48
We may or may not fail to get 4th or even 3rd not because we drew our last 2 away games, but because we drew the previous 12 before them, how many of those were due to our own mistakes and an deep seated nstitutionalised cautiousness when 1 or 2 up, there lies the problem.
Harold Matthews
168 Posted 17/04/2013 at 11:17:07
Gibson is a classy player but his walking pace is not for me......or the Premiership.
Phil Sammon
169 Posted 17/04/2013 at 11:25:45
Harold

What Gibson lacks in pace he makes up with nouse and craft. He is the only player we have who understands that in order to launch a counter-attack you must play the ball for players to run onto, rather than to feet.

Football - even the PL - isn't all about pace. Gibson is a vital cog in our team.

Steve Brown
170 Posted 17/04/2013 at 11:35:57
Anichebe did not have his best game, but at least he worked hard. In the past he played poorly and didn't run. He has been one of the best players in the team over the last 5 matches, so you have to be fair to him.
James Fletcher
171 Posted 17/04/2013 at 12:07:07
Gibson was absolutely key yesterday and has been in most games. If he hadn't been given a yellow for tackling someone he would've been even more effective. When he combines with Fellaini we actually seem able to produce some decent football, unfortunately this often breaks down when they try to include Pienaar....
Paul David
172 Posted 17/04/2013 at 11:51:47
Brent

I'll admit that I always look for the worst in Anichebe and might sometimes go over the top with my comments but I totally agree with you, in those situations its height thats the main advantage but you have to agree that only winning 3 out of about 30 headers he went for is still poor, I mean if Anichebe isn't a target man then what is he? Plus all the headers weren't against the centre backs, as I said last night he lost out to Arteta 3 times who he has a significant height and weight advantage over.

I've read people say that the ball needed to be played to his chest so he can bring it down and this happened twice I think and if my memory serves me right both times the ball bounced about 5 yards of his chest so the defender still took it off him cos his chest control was so bad.

Most balls were played in the air to him but not all and I don't remember him getting his body in the way and shielding the ball, the defenders were getting in front of him and taking it off his toe.

As for his work rate I thought he put a decent shift in for 70 odd minutes but spent the last 10/15 minutes walking around not interested.

Tony Dove
173 Posted 17/04/2013 at 12:46:26
I said on Saturday that if Moyes was here next season Barkley would have to move on. After last night Moyes might just wake up to the fact that Ross has got the most potential of any English player since Rooney.Having said that I was worried to see Ferguson in the crowd!
Paul Smith
174 Posted 17/04/2013 at 12:53:32
Another typical Everton away performance where we started very brightly and should've taken the lead through Pienaar to gradually sitting deeper and deeper with less of a threat going forward. If this match was played about a month ago, it would've been a very good result & performance but because we need wins now it became a frustrating one.

Defensively I thought we were superb and gave them few chances with Coleman and Jags the pick of the bunch for me. We really need to win on Saturday now to keep a little bit of pressure on those above us.

Derek Wadeson
175 Posted 17/04/2013 at 12:39:40
Players will have good games, sometimes even great ones, poor games and awful ones. But what they must do is put a shift in and show that they care. Against Arsenal every Everton player put a shift plus in. Thank you for playing like your football career depended on it and you are not there to count your money (although I wouldn't blame you for counting it on your day off, I would)
Eugene Ruane
176 Posted 17/04/2013 at 12:34:44
- Find it hard to have a real go about Victor last night, simply because even if he'd won every header from those long balls, there was nobody going to pick them up. On a separate issue though, someone needs to have a word with him about his responses when decisions don't go his way. He was (imo) very lucky last night not to get a booking when a throw-in went against him and he became Victor Meldrew. And on Saturday against QPR, it appears he almost dislocated his shoulder when, to show his annoyance, he decided to mime Dennis Lillee's bowling action. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for letting the officials know they've got it wrong but he has this narked teen "OMG that is like SOOO unfair actually" body-language that does him no favours. I mean Graeme Sharp as I remember moaned about every decision he didn't get, but ffs I don't remember any protest resulting in his arm almost falling off.
Ross Edwards
177 Posted 17/04/2013 at 13:17:42
I felt sorry for Oviedo, being brought on to waste time only. I'm sure he'd want to leave in the summer.
Douglas Turner
178 Posted 17/04/2013 at 12:39:29
I hear referee Neil Swarbrick is in counselling today after Wilshere's torrid abuse at him last night on the pitch! Get well soon Neil! Apart from giving the Arse all the decisions their way, there were sparks of decent refereeing in places... this season!

Well done to Everton for persevering to a draw despite the corrupt odds stacked against them yet again against the supposed "top 4 club" we drew DESPITE them! I often wondered how Arsenal managed to get their pitch nice and flat throughout the season! They outdid themselves last night as the human lawnmowers didn't miss a glade of grass!

But then, they know the decision will go towards them 9.99 times out of 10 so you cant blame them really.... or can you? They have the bigger fan base therefore UEFA will want them to qualify for champions league 4th spot!

It's the very same reason why we got kicked out last time, it's that corrupt! And for those who think I'm on some "Napoleonic complex rant" FFS do the Math!!!

Tom Bowers
179 Posted 17/04/2013 at 13:29:34
It has to be said that Anichebe isn't good in the air even against shorter men than Mertezacker but then neither is Jelavic. Anichebe is basically another James Beattie or Marcus Bent that is a willing runner without much real skill who sometimes grabs a goal.

My beef is that, with such limitations, why is he preferred to Vellios? Maybe because Vic is willing to run like an idiot for 90 minutes which is more to the liking of Moyes.

Brent Stephens
180 Posted 17/04/2013 at 13:34:22
Paul, #411. Yes, you would hope he'd win just a few more in the air. I guess Im saying I wish they'd have played it more to his feet / body. He played so well Saturday when it was like that - but then maybe he was up against weaker CBs on Saturday.
Brent Stephens
181 Posted 17/04/2013 at 13:39:43
Douglas #435 "Apart from giving the Arse all the decisions their way, there were sparks of decent refereeing in places... this season!". I thought there were some juicy tackles going in from us, esp early on, which while legit were "robust" - but the ref didn't cave in to home-ground pressure. He let us play a strong game. If some of our tackles had been against us at Goodison, we'd have been screaming blue murder.
Eugene Ruane
182 Posted 17/04/2013 at 13:28:39
Yo duuuuudes this site is OSSUMM!!!

WHOOOO-AWRIIIIITE. USA,USA,USA!!!

Way t'go the EverTON blue-toffees WHOOOOO!!!!!

Oh shit sorry, I saw in Douglas's post (435) 'do the math' and assumed it was let's pretend to be Americans day or...something.


Jim Knightley
183 Posted 17/04/2013 at 13:48:13
Wilshere's moaning was beyond irritating...but I thought the ref did ok in general, and we were lucky that Gibson stayed on the pitch.

Tony..re. Barkley, im guessing Moyes' decision to start him away at the Emirates' in one of the biggest matches of our season, signifies his belief in Barkley's potential. However, Barkley suffers from the lapses in concentration, and passing mistakes, which have affected his first team football, and mean he has to play in a more advanced role, which Fellaini has occupied very effectively this season. He has potential...but he is no Wilshere or Rooney (At least not yet anyway). I'm hoping next season he will come on, and with experience, iron out the mistakes. I think it's easy to forget he is only 19 and missed a whole year of his development through injury...

And Douglas...get real man.

Simon Watts
184 Posted 17/04/2013 at 14:03:56
I think the reason we bought Oviedo, is because it is a like for like replacement for Baines. I think it was anticipated he would go at winter transfer period. Probably the summer. He looks a great player, but he is a left back, or possible left wing, and the places are already filled.
Graham Mockford
185 Posted 17/04/2013 at 13:59:25
I thought the performance of Mirallas was really interesting last night. He didn't really impose himself on the game from an attacking point of view but that to my mind that was because Arsenal definitely set out to try and nullify our attacking play down the flanks.

More often than not their wide midfielders were doubling up with their fullbacks. I don't think I've ever seen Walcott play as deep in a game at The Emirates. However what was impressive was his work rate and commitment to the team. There was a lot of speculation about how he would react to Moyes public comments last week. I think we saw the answer last night.

He also still managed to produce the two most sublime bits of skill in the whole game. A lovely little chip pass along the line and then a drag back that sold Sagna so far he nearly had to pay to get back in.

I think we are going to see the best of him next year, fitness permitting.

Derek Wadeson
186 Posted 17/04/2013 at 14:02:40
My first thoughts after Ross Barkley curled that beauty just wide (after the initial "get in there") Was thank goodness it didn't go in, because all you would of heard was "Remember the name" as we did with Wayne Rooney. Twenty yards, against Arsenal 1-0.

I would love another superstar, but let's have him at David Moyes's pace breaking through and not the media's and Sky telling everyone he is to good for Everton.

Well done to David Moyes for bringing him on this way. You would've thought he would've got his game time against QPR and not Arsenal and not the other way round.

Interesting point to everyone who thinks he should've started every game lately. Last six games: won four, drawn two and the two draws are the two that Ross started. I wouldn't mind him starting at Sunderland though.

Darren Alexander
187 Posted 17/04/2013 at 14:18:08
It was my first visit to the Emirates, and despite it being a decent match I thought it all lacked a bit of atmosphere. I didn't think we (the fans) were quite as up for it as we normally are; maybe we, like the team, are a bit tired now?

Hard to complain too much about getting a point there - more importantly, we went toe-to-toe with Arsenal and proved we can match that standard; there was no lucky escaping with a point, and we played a positive game.

I think that we would have won this one a while back, as we did look quite tired and a long way from our best - we continually gave away possession and misplaced passed in a way that they didn't. Baines and Pienaar (and, crucially their partnership) weren't firing at all, and Mirallas struggled to make too much of an impact (apart from with his water bottle). Anichebe was back to his bad old self - falling over whenever he looked like not winning a ball; what had happened to him since his superb turn in north London just over a week ago? But Jags and Coleman were great; Barkley rough round the edges but very promising; Howard really needs to shout more and not leave his centre-halfs in the dark in the way he does. Really pleased to see Fellaini in the middle, as I had a horrible feeling he was going to be played behind the striker. And Moyes showed a fair bit of positivity in bringing on Jelavic, even if he looked utterly woeful.

I don't think I ever realistically expected a top 4 finish, and I can't believe we've been spoken of as contenders for such a large part of the season. The Europa League spot (5th?) will take some doing as we'll still have to overtake one of Arsenal, Tottenham or Chelsea, but I think that'd be a fine achievement and a good level of competition for us to have a decent run in next season.

Max Murphy
188 Posted 17/04/2013 at 17:52:17
Barkley has rough edges but his class was beginning to show through last night. Infuriating why Moyes has not been playing him more. Thank God Osman injured.
Anichebe doesn't do it for me. His limitations blindingly obvious against good opposition. He may have had a reasonable game against QPR, but was ineffective, clumsy and totally lacking any skill last night.
Why Moyes persists with Jelavic is a complete nonsense. A new forward, perhaps Vellios should have been given a run out as early as January or February. I just cannot bring myself to comment on Naismith. His continual selection from the bench is one of the great mysteries of the 21st century. Thank God that tw&t Lee Mason wasn't reffing!
Lets hope Moyes, in his final season, breaks his duck agains Chelsea & RS.
COYB!
David Greenwood
189 Posted 17/04/2013 at 18:07:18
Max, can you remind us what were big Vic's blindingly obvious limitations against City a couple of weeks ago?
Paul David
190 Posted 17/04/2013 at 18:11:29
David

I love an excuse to have a go at Anichebe so i'll answer that. Anichebe ran his socks off and bullied their defence but the problem is he only does this when he feels like and that not often. Last night was a more of an example of a typical Anichebe display not the City game.

But even if Anichebe played every game like he did against City I wonder how long it would take for his fans to say " you can't fault his effort but where the quality" because if you watch the City game again without the emotions of the time you will see he did nothing of quality.

I do wonder what Anichebe has done to deserve people to defend him all the time. When you consider Jelavic is only 2 Everton goals behind what Anichebe has managed his whole career. It really didn't take long for peoples opinion of Jelavic to go from 'best since Lineker' to now get slammed for 'works hard but has no end product' and 'works hard but has no end product' is Anichebe at his best.

David Greenwood
191 Posted 17/04/2013 at 18:33:36
Paul, amazing how we all see games and players differently.

Stephen Sulliven
192 Posted 17/04/2013 at 23:01:44
Max 511

You had me choking on my cornflakes (and it's 11pm) with this...

"I just cannot bring myself to comment on Naismith. His continual selection from the bench is one of the great mysteries of the 21st century."

Douglas Turner
193 Posted 18/04/2013 at 14:13:13
Eugene Ruane # 446...... Not Cool Dude, like... Like...Totally!!! And Bitch Please! It's... GoooOOO TEAM!!! xp Do the sums! Better?
Douglas Turner
194 Posted 18/04/2013 at 14:21:48
Brent #444 ....If that was the case then Stoke would never finish a game with 11 on the pitch
Douglas Turner
195 Posted 18/04/2013 at 14:26:31
Jim Knighty #453... what I said on #664
Steve King
196 Posted 18/04/2013 at 16:33:55
Just read the report at onlinegooner.com for a bit or perspective.
After an initial compliment:

"Granted, Everton are no mugs, the best side Arsenal have faced since Bayern Munich at home in February"

the moaning about their little princesses being tackled kicked in again:

"They were certainly assisted by a very lenient referee in Kevin Friend who should have dismissed Darren Gibson and also let Fellaini off with two obvious yellow card offences, at least to the naked eye. I have not seen any TV coverage as yet to confirm. The official certainly allowed Everton to demonstrate the physical side of their game with Jack Wilshere a particular target."

I was at the match and all their fans did was winge and moan at the ref. They need a serious reality check!
Also the author blamed their failure to beat us on "lack of investment"....hmmmmmmm perspective is an amazing thing!

http://onlinegooner.com/article.php?section=editorial&id=426#.UXARhKKzddw


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