Rare Blues win eases pressure on Martinez
Everton scored early through Cleverley but almost immediately surrendered the lead in a fashion that was typical of the season; Baines eventually restoring the lead.

Muhamed Besic deputised at right back before being replaced by Tony Hibbert at half-time
Everton gave Matthew Pennington his Premier league debut in their penultimate home game of the 2015-16 season this weekend against Bournemouth, with £13.5M acquisition Oumar Niasse making his first start since joining the club three months ago.
Tim Howard returns as captain for the first of his two farewell games in front of the Goodison crowd, while Gibson again starts in place of the injured Gareth Barry. Coleman and Jagielka are also missing through injury while Ramiro Funes Mori is suspended.
Roberto Martinez is under great pressure from fans who have mostly had enough of his 'philosophy' and continually failed promises of 'jam tomorrow', but the Everton stewards are renowned for preventing banners within Goodison and clamping down on protests from the stands.
The visitors kicked off with Dan Gosling on the bench but Everton took possession and structured a couple of early attacks. Everton scored through Cleverley. He was found by Barkley following a neat bit of play down the left flank and, after taking a tidy first-touch to set himself, drilled a low, left-footed finish past Boruc and into the bottom corner.
But Everton almost immediately surrendered the lead in a fashion that was typical of the season. Pennington was shirked off the ball by Wilson who slide a cross into the area. It was helped on by King to the unmarked Pugh who, at the back post, who had the simple task of slotting a finish past Howard. Not the best way to celebrate his farewell...
The game had the pace and intensity of an end-of-season affair, the crowd getting a little concerned in the bright sunshine as Blues attacks were at best uninspiring. Cleverley had another attempt that was well off target.
Niasse started to get more involved and some of passing looked good, some awful with a dreadful giveaway direct to the opposition that then led to a corner for Bournemouth, headed wide at the far post.
Barkley sprung into life thanks to some good work by Niasse but his shot was high. He almost got in on Boruc but the keeper was then out quickly.
Some poor corners from Cleverley didn't help the mood although Niasse came close to converting one with a flick. But most attention before half-time was for the sound of a plane overhead, and a banner trailed behind: "TIME TO GO ROBERTO NSNO".
A massive reception after the break for Tony Hibbert, coming on to replace Mo Besic, his first appearance in 16 months. He looked a little rusty in his first touch. At the other end, Niasse was doing a good impression of Lukaku watching the ball bounce past him.
There was a sudden burst of slick passing that took everyone by surprise, Gibson out to Lennon, Niasse to McCarthy, then in for Barkley but he could not take a shot. This at least led to some pressure on the Bournemouth goal but no clear chances being created and The Cherries were soon off the hook, Wilson running at the Baines.
King was given a lot of space but chose to shoot early, low and wide past Howard's post. Wilson was next to attack the Everton goal, getting off a good shot that Howard may have touched behind. Niasse was replaced by Lukaku on the hour.
Pennington did well to defend against Wilson but Ritchie picked up his clearance and was fouled by Gibson (Yellow card) for a dangerous free kick with Ritchie getting the ball over the wall and into the hands of Howard.
Straight up the other end, Barkley played Lennon in wide right and his bobbling cross looked to to have been missed by Cleverley but a superb left-foot strike from Baines coming in the left channel rocketed the ball into the roof of the Gwladys Street net.
That produced great relief and a much more lively tempo of play from the home side, with Tony Hibbert getting forward to great shouts of "SHOOT!!!", Barkley even setting him up for a shot that turned into more of a pass back to Boruc.
A couple of subs by Eddie Howie changed the largely one-way traffic, and a couple of half-chances almost saw another equalizer from the visitors, Stanilas and Afobe creating some danger but no goals.
Stones, who had been superb commanding the defence, strode out of defence and looked imperious with the ball at his feet, energizing things going forward, but he got pushed out to the corner flag and, although he kept possession, the impetus was lost by the time the ball found Barkley.
Wilson was always causing trouble and he pulled a brilliant cross back from the byeline right onto Afobe's head but somehow he missed an open goal. It was Wilson's final contribution; Grabban replacing him with 12 minutes left.
Stanislas looked to have beaten Hibbert to get a shot off but for a superb piece of work by the veteran Evertonian to chase back, slide in and block it, much appreciated by the Goodison crowd.
Past the 78-minute mark and no mass movement of fans to the exits in silent protest. Instead, a great reception for Kieran Dowell, replacing Barkley for the last 5 minutes or so. And he was keen to put pressure on a Boruc clearance. But the ball was soon down the Everton end, Ritchie striking the ball just wide.
Lukaku again was caught passively watching a ball bounce around him, totally incapable of making a decisive touch to control the ball, which wound up going back down the other end. Maddening from a supposed £50M striker.
Into 4 minutes of added time and each spell of Bournemouth possession caused consternation and panic for the Blues all round, two corners being given up. But the Blues kept their nerve a pulled off a much-needed win — their first in seven Premier League games, and a real rarity at Goodison Park this season.
At the end, a couple of "Martinez Out" banners but no mass protest at the incompetent management of Martinez, the pressure no doubt relieved by this rare home win.
As the crowd (and the targets of their protest) dispersed, a small group of Evertonians (50-200, estimates vary) remained in the Lower Gwladys, with banners and chants protesting the continuation of Roberto Martinez as manager.
Everton: Howard (C), Baines, Stones, Pennington, Besic (46' Hibbert), Gibson [Y:62'], McCarthy, Cleverley, Barkley (87' Dowell), Lennon, Niasse (60' Lukaku).
Subs not Used: Robles, Oviedo, Mirallas, Osman.
AFC Bournemouth: Boruc; Francis, Elphick, Cook, Daniels; Ritchie, Arter, Surman, Pugh (69' Stanislas); King (69' Afobe), Wilson (78' Grabban).
Subs not Used: Federici, Wiggins, Gosling, O'Kane.
Referee: Neil Swarbrick
Kick-off: 3pm
Reader Comments (156)
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2 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:18:15
3 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:27:49
4 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:29:05
5 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:32:01
Will be interesting to watch Niasse finally!
6 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:37:20
7 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:44:51
8 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:47:39
9 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:48:49
10 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:53:49
11 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:54:51
12 Posted 30/04/2016 at 15:06:53
Taxi please!
13 Posted 30/04/2016 at 15:09:55
14 Posted 30/04/2016 at 15:13:01
15 Posted 30/04/2016 at 15:15:04
16 Posted 30/04/2016 at 15:24:13
Typical Everton I'm afraid.
17 Posted 30/04/2016 at 15:50:46
18 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:03:38
Time to Go Roberto NSNO. Bournemouth look bigger stronger and fitter? Tony Hibbert? Give me a break... please fuck off, Martinez.
19 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:06:53
20 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:09:03
Bet Mr Kenwright went for a pie and missed it. :(
21 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:12:00
22 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:19:07
Oh, surprise, I was only half right
23 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:34:46
25 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:45:17
26 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:48:27
27 Posted 30/04/2016 at 16:56:08
28 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:01:34
29 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:07:38
30 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:08:42
32 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:13:18
Sack him (ideally tonight) as relegation beckons if we stick this clown another season.
33 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:13:36
34 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:14:02
This man will relegate us if left in charge. Martinez out !!!!
35 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:14:48
No it doesn't and if it does then God help us
Get him out now!
36 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:17:05
37 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:18:00
38 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:20:45
There is no credible case for him remaining as far as the facts are concerned.
Shouldn't matter how nice he may be.
39 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:21:34
40 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:23:04
41 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:27:53
42 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:27:59
43 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:28:57
44 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:29:07
Finally, a player in the Everton defence today who:
* defaulted to his prime duty - ie, to defend.
* showed positional awareness of both where his own defenders were and where the opposition attackers were maurading.
* stepped in time and again to cleanly tackle, block or intercept the ball.
* once in possession, simply and crisply moved the ball on to more skillful players before settling back into his default position.
Take a bow, the much maligned, but also much loved, 35-year-old Tony ... Tony-Tony ... Tony-Tony ... Tony-Tony-Hibbert!
46 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:31:23
47 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:32:53
48 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:33:05
49 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:33:35
50 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:35:54
51 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:35:57
The Cherries were for a long time outplaying Everton in that abysmal first half by being hungrier and quicker to the ball.
This has been Everton's achilles heel this season.
In the middle of the park they are notably half a yard slower than most teams even though the midfielders who have played seem to be quite quick.
Closing down the opposition in that area has cost them dearly in many games and so any new manager has to bring in new players who are quicker and tackle better.
The current batch are just not good enough and so some have to be sold off otherwise it will be more of the same next season.
Martinez's aversion to changing the tactics has made it easy for others teams to compete against Everton particularly at Goodison.
52 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:36:32
I would have liked young Dowell when he came on, to show more energy, especially closing players down when they tried play the ball out of defence. Because it is through making real effort that new younger players can get noticed and get to the pace of the game more quickly, as a good sign for future possible further selection.
53 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:36:32
54 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:36:42
55 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:37:20
He also must have excellent contacts in Latin America and Europe where we could find some top players. Some say he is an older version of Martinez but this guys teams know how to defend.
56 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:40:17
57 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:41:25
58 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:42:34
I must stop believing that ToffeeWeb fully reflects the views of most Evertonians. A 95% out vote and several weeks of almost unanimous posts suggesting that change must happen. Yet today, we had our usual apathy, a few boos and jeers and some banners after the match - but mainly the 'sound of silence'. Why does our fan base accept this situation so apathetically. Have they been ground down so much that they are willing to accept mediocrity and a lack of vision.
Is this why Bill and the board have got away with it for so long? Is this why the Kirkby move almost happened? Is this why Moyes stayed on a couple of years too long when his mojo had clearly run out? I called it the 'Blue Kipper' effect - once, when that site still ran. That perpetually perky and optimistic view of the club - steeped in a British 'mustn't grumble' view provided we stay in the top flight. The RS don't accept this and even Arsenal fans don't seem to be either, despite consecutive top 4 finishes that we can only dream of.
Well done on the airplane protest - but no mass throwing of tennis balls or the waving of white hankies. No 78th minute mass walk out! We deserve all we get from Roberto next season.
Of course - it might be that changes may happen at the end of the season - but it will clearly not be the result of the well-reasoned posts on ToffeeWeb in recent weeks. I think I'll take a break from posting for a while - the ironing pile has started to build up in recent days. It's become quite phenomenal in size actually! Sigh.......
59 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:42:46
I rather think that is exactly the point I am making in my post @ 44.
60 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:43:07
He would bring back hope as we all feel current situation is hopeless.
61 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:43:47
Please god, give us anything more than the 㿈m for this lazy lump and he's yours.
62 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:44:56
63 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:50:36
If you don't believe that, then just imagine for one second exactly what these threads would look like if we had lost to Bournemouth this afternoon.
64 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:56:15
65 Posted 30/04/2016 at 17:59:29
66 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:01:20
Young Dowell got a 10-minute cameo and Niasse got 45 minutes and is not a lone striker but seems to have a bit of pace, some nice close control and first touch. I saw a few things I liked so maybe next season with Pellegrini or Wenger anyone but Martinez in charge.
67 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:04:11
Maybe with the Hillsborough tribute, perfectly executed by Chairman Bill, people felt it wasn't the right moment to be too boisterous.
68 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:05:41
Martinez: 'My intention is to win games & be successful. 3 seasons gives me an understating of what is needed and Learn from mistakes'.
Unbelievable Jeff.
70 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:06:36
71 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:08:40
72 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:09:48
73 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:10:20
The plane was fine, was picked up on - but I think it's exactly as you say - people thought it wasn't the right moment (jeez I sound like you know who).
But it's still getting coverage on 6-0-6, and I assume other news outlets, and I would be amazed if Boys Pen and Moshiri don't get to hear all about it.
74 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:12:21
No talking, no leaders, second to 97% of second-balls, muscled off 95% of all shoulder to shoulders.
Pitiful desperate shite.
Two positives - 1) Lennon. 2) It was sunny.
Martinez/Kenwright/Elstone (and any of their mates) out!
75 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:12:39
Still, a win is a win. This season, a pretty rare thing indeed.
The silence from the board matched only by the silence from the stands. You could here the players talking to each other all game.
Roberto ball is still boring ball.
77 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:13:46
78 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:14:54
79 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:18:00
A 2-1 win at home to Bournemouth is fine on its own.
However, this was a relatively meaningless game towards the end of a miserable season. And it was hardly a thrashing was it?
We have nothing to really achieve this season other than 'top half' and if that's deemed a success or progress then we might as well pack up now.
Three games left and we're among a pack of also-rans still in the 40-odd point zone (with WBA, Bournemouth, Watford and Swansea).
Two seasons of decline provide the more realistic measure of Martinez the 'manager'.
If this clown stays beyond the end of this season then Big Nev's words about ambition and vision will never ring truer.
Sadly, I fear the worst.
The writing is on the wall - but some just can't see it because 'he's a nice man' / the so-called 'brand of beautiful (puke) football' and / or 'it's all the players' fault'.
80 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:18:15
87th min, and was under instructions from his manager were to play.
81 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:25:08
82 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:26:26
83 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:28:07
Great photo with Moshiri at the game.
84 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:28:20
85 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:29:36
Straight after the phone in was over, Power to the People was played. "Nice one"
86 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:31:05
87 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:31:07
89 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:35:46
90 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:36:12
91 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:41:23
92 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:41:42
How can anyone with the slightest shred of knowledge about football (of which defending is half the job) think Mo Besic at RB was a more sensible choice than a vastly experienced RB who demonstrably can still defend and TACKLE? Sadly the Catalan Clown does know feck all about at least half of the game.
Martinez Out!!
93 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:45:49
94 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:50:10
95 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:52:39
That about sums the game up.
Not many players out there look like they are good enough for the next level and you would have to expect a decision on Martinez is imminent.
Howard...Had few things to actually do, most down to Bournemouth lacking cutting edge.
Besic...No good at right back, can never play in defence, an ok defensive midfielder nothing more.
Baines...Average apart from the goal which he took very very well..
Pennington...One scary first half moment aside he coped well and did nothing wrong.
Stones... Composed but the style of Bournemouth's play and strikers seemed to play into Stones hands.
Gibson... Average.
McCarthy...Worked hard but typically Macca creates nothing and rarely gets forward.
Cleverley...Nice finish for the first goal, hard work but think he is a bit limited at times certainly no left midfielder.
Lennon...Put a shift in, did well for the Baines goal but generally one of his quieter games.
Barkley...Little boy lost, holds the ball too long, seems to have lost the burst of pace he had of two seasons ago and still doesn't seemto kknow when to shoot and pass.
Niasse...One or two moments but to be honest just doesn't look like a Premier League footballer.
Even next season can't see him being more than a sub at best.
96 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:53:41
Strewth Steavey, you're a tough task-master, calling out an 18-year-old, making his PL debut with just 3 minutes left on the clock, for lack of effort.
It would be harsh even if it were true, but it isn't. You obviously looked away when young Dowell chased 20-30 yards to close down a back pass to the keeper who had a dodgy moment as a result in clearing the ball.
It brought a cheer from the Street end. I guess you didn't join in the appreciation.
97 Posted 30/04/2016 at 18:57:20
It's mentioned on another thread but the incredible interview with Bobby Bullshit by Carragher really does sum up how phenomenally deluded Martinez is, even without his meaningless phrases;
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3566216/Everton-boss-Roberto-Martinez-speaks-Jamie-Carragher-t-manage-club-think-ve-got-win-losing-job.html?ITO=1490&ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490
98 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:01:09
99 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:09:33
Also one of the fans in the protest tweeted that Moshiri came down into the dugout to see what was happening.
I cant believe that the crowd had no Martinez out chants during the game.
But well done to the 100 or so protesters in Gwladys Street.
101 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:15:16
102 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:19:11
Additionally, Kenwright is a proud man and will not want to be seen shelling out millions of pounds in compensation under the gaze of his new investor.
However shrewd that investor may be, he bought all those shares on the sales spiel Kenwright put to him and, no doubt, that spiel included the assurance that the playing side was in good hands and was on the up and up. He will not wish to be disavowed of that assurance a mere three months after committing a small fortune to it.
All this points to the two men being of similar mind. They both WANT Martinez to succeed and as long as no relegation bells chime, they will continue to back him.
Whilst many are saying today's game was of no relevance, it did in fact , remove all mathematical possibility of Everton going down and, surprisingly, it may turn out to be the most significant in Roberto's career.
It does, therefore, in all probability mean that the great philosophy will move into its next phase with a raft of summer signings as we approach another Martinez season.
The only good side of this scenario is that, at least, we shall be spared the spectre of the second coming of Davey Moyes. Doddy can remain in retirement !
103 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:28:32
104 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:29:00
Despite BK maybe wanting to stand by RM the fans will make it almost impossible for that to happen. I think with the tribute to the Hillsborough families, many may have felt uneasy about protesting. But the fans who stayed to protest will be swayed with thousands more at the Norwich game. They will want to leave BK and FM in no doubt to the feeling of the vast majority of fans that want Martinez out.
Even BK will not swim against the emotions of the match going fans.
I always say that players and managers should never go back, but if you offered me a straight choice between Moyes and the charlatan then no contest.
105 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:30:12
Not trying to be sarky, but ... if you were at the game, why didn't you try to start a Martinez out chant if you feel (as you evidently do) it is needed?
That you didn't and nor did the vast bulk of attendees is not necessarily indicative of indifference or lack of popular support to the 'Martinez Out' movement.
In your and the crowd's defence, this match on the heels of the Hillsborough verdict and the tribute paid to that before KO and in the match day program, possibly dampened any intended more vocal protest than was delivered.
The JFT96 campaign is something very close to the hearts and families of the city of Liverpool which cuts across the red-blue divide. Considerable grief runs deep for many still and this emotion possibly curtailed a more vociferous protest.
That said, if RM is still in place and no announcement about his position and the protests remain muted in the final home game (and customary lap of 'honour' - cough!) against Norwich, then the match going faithful are either of a different mindset to Blues who post on Everton forums, or Blue Militancy is something of a myth.
106 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:35:48
Just seen in the time I wrote my previous post you acknowledged the same as me, namely:
"I think with the tribute to the Hillsborough families, many may have felt uneasy about protesting."
I'm of the same opinion as you when you say "Despite BK maybe wanting to stand by RM the fans will make it almost impossible for that to happen."
I think RM's position is now untenable unless the board want to risk an even more toxic Goodison next season.
107 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:36:08
108 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:46:45
109 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:49:10
110 Posted 30/04/2016 at 19:57:02
Well,I hope you will be in good voice and that the Board will take more notice of you than they have done of some very well organized protests in the past. But you will, of course, be aware that whilst playing to full houses they couldn't give a flying fart. 'It's always the same rabble rousers,' they probably say, and then just carry on doing what they choose to do.
I don't believe ANY of the Board members wish to part company with Martinez and it will take more than a noisy minority at games - and you and me on busy keyboards to change their stance.
111 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:08:44
At the end of the game Kenwright was clapping and Woods had his hands in his coat pockets with a grim look on his face. I suppose he could have had gas.
112 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:15:23
113 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:17:03
114 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:21:55
115 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:25:57
116 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:27:30
Turning the PA up to drown them out speaks volumes about the way the club is run at the moment and gives away I think what Kenwright really thinks about your average EFC supporter.
The way he's conducted himself lately with all the 'What a manager' shite is two fingers to anyone who dares to question his authority. I had some respect for Kenwright but that is slowly disappearing as time goes by.
117 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:30:03
118 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:40:10
You are so wrong on so many counts. Let me clarify.
"I know you have no time for my views, or indeed of any other supporter who thinks differently to you."
On the first clause you will not be aware, but in private exchanges with TW editors I have spoken up in your DEFENSE and right to have your alternative opinions aired on this forum. This was more than a year ago.
I said I enjoyed your maverick postings and sang-froid nature in that you don't resort to character assasination or personal insults (in spite of some extremely abusive posts aimed at you) as other posters are inclined to do.
Seek confirmation from Lyndon of this, if you disbelieve me.
As for the second clause, I clearly have time for the views of others as I engage with you and other posters, reading alternative views closely before responding myself.
Have I been abusive to you Phil? No, I haven't. I have simply not subscribed to some beliefs you hold and explained to you why not.
Don't confuse me expressing an alternative opinion to another's stated position as being intolerant of other views contrary to my own.
I admit, I do roll my eyes at posters (as you are trying to do here...) who rather than engage in debate play the 'victim' card and who are resentful of any questioning of their own position.
As for your next point, sadly, I am no longer a match goer (being an exile like yourself) and have stated as such on these very pages. I have never made claims otherwise. I really can't follow what you are trying to imply here.
Finally, your 'protest is futile' line. That may well be the case Phil.
However, your (reitereated) belief that you "don't believe ANY of the board members wish to part company with Martinez and it will take more than a noisy minority at games to change their stance" is mere speculation on your part.
You have zero proof to support such a claim. Keep repeating it parrot fashion all you like. It doesn't make it any truer with the 100th repitition than it did the first time you posted the same.
Unlike yourself I have NOT made explicit claims as to the thinking or mindset of any of our club custodians, other than to say how Moshri deals with the question of Roberto Martinez's position at the club will greatly inform us of his ambitions and intentions.
Clear enough for you?
119 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:44:56
120 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:50:24
121 Posted 30/04/2016 at 20:56:59
Lecturing others not to be pedants!!
Advising others not to take themselves so seriously!!!
Oh the irony!
If this is a board for Everton fans, what's your reason for posting on here?
Aren't you the one who BEFORE the Chelsea quarter final that you wanted Everton to lose every game for the rest of the season to guarantee RM's dismissal?
How has that worked out for you Martin?
I'm curious ... just how do you square you well-documented sycophantic praise of BK with your hoped-for scenario, RM's dismissal?
Hasn't Bill only ever put the best interests of the club first, above all else?
Which is it Martin? Are you wrong about Bill? Or are you wrong about Roberto's prowess as a manager?
Sniffed at by Martin Mason! What did Denis Healey once say about Geoffrey Howe, "like being savaged by a dead sheep..."
Stroll on, Martin. Stroll on.
122 Posted 30/04/2016 at 21:02:48
He's clearly not the man to take us forward, the only reason Bobby brown shoes is hurting is because he's been found out. He has of late started contradicting himself even more, 'these next two games are defining moments for me as a manager', battered by a Liverpool side who have a manager who's been with them less than a season, 'our squad is too big, our squad is too small'. When he first joined us,'I know I can get results despite having a tight budget and I can work within that', 'at Everton we have the 9th highest budget in the premier league'.
Today I didn't expect us to win so to celebrate I'm going to have an extra sugar in my coffee, somebody stop me.
123 Posted 30/04/2016 at 21:19:54
Liverpool supporters would not tolerate the hapless Martinez at Anfield. I ask you, Michael, to denounce him and the chairman.
124 Posted 30/04/2016 at 21:25:32
Nice to see another young lad get his debut, hard to judge him on three plus minutes, should have got at least 10/15 mins to show what he can do.
Barkley always frustrates me, he clearly has oodles of talent & sometimes when he gets it right, he is a class act. However too often he is let down by his decision making, he will get his foot on the ball glide along & drawing in opposing players, which allows his team mates to run into acres of space all over the pitch & too often he ignores them & ends up losing the ball or giving it away. Other times he will be on the edge of the area & you will be willing him to shoot & he will try an intricate pass which isn't really on. For me decision making is his biggest weakness.
Overall a win is a win, but nothing to get too excited about after a very disappointing season.
125 Posted 30/04/2016 at 21:31:13
126 Posted 30/04/2016 at 21:38:59
I actually thought Bournemouth were poor and if we didn't beat them today we really are relegation fodder. I thought Howard did okay although he was never asked many questions. Bainsey I thought had a decent game and he took the goal well.
Pennington was solid but thought he should have been right on the Bournemouth player instead of protesting to the ref. He lost vital yards there. I thought Stones was pretty good and thought he at least showed some urgency in the game.
Besic was lost, but Hibbo did a decent job when he came on. Gibson played okay without coming up to Barry's standard. McCarthy was his usual busy self but, as previously pointed out, doesn't offer anything going forward. I just wish Lennon would stay on the wing and ping them across into the box. I thought Cleverley was poor as was Barkley.
I thought Niasse, like Lukaku, looked isolated but I thought he made some intelligent passes but also some naive in others. I can't believe this is the same team who played some great football early in the season. I don't see any resemblance of that team here.
127 Posted 30/04/2016 at 22:05:48
128 Posted 30/04/2016 at 22:17:24
129 Posted 30/04/2016 at 22:36:53
Whether or not you were joking you are the only other person I've known to say he's nuts.
I've been saying it for two years now.
I strongly believe that within 5 years this will be taken seriously and it will be acknowledged that he's a sick man.
130 Posted 30/04/2016 at 22:46:09
Funny Farm not Finch Farm .
131 Posted 30/04/2016 at 22:48:57
Of course it is completely 'unrealistic'. It's a punishing ritual, which maybe stems from him not reaching a level he wanted to during his playing days and so he strives for it during management. Of course anyone who gets in the way feels like a 'threat' so natural safety instinct is to get rid (to protect himself) as Distin, Eto'o, Garbutt, and Mirallas have found out.
132 Posted 30/04/2016 at 22:59:27
133 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:15:23
Well done Hibbo, you can bow out of your profession, as far as I'm concerned with your head held high.
I'd also have you in the starting line up for England in a few months time.
Football is not all about attacking and non contact,
No-matter what sky and Talksquit says.
Tony you played great today my son!!
134 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:21:56
So what do I say when the chairman says ' We should give the manager another season' and then this catastrophe of a football manager says 'Can I have lots of dosh to bring in new players, given my heroic, and successful forays into the transfer market?'
Perhaps I just nod, and smile, knowing these clowns are going to bring this club , my huge investment, to its knees. Then, in July, I bring in the new manager, and engineer a token but powerless position as 'Honorary President' for the outgoing Chairman.
Surely this must happen, or am I missing something, like a brain?
135 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:25:15
IF there is a split of views, I don't think it is as between Kenwright and the Mosh lobby. Make of that what you will.
136 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:29:30
My partner in conversation said to me that she thought that I was "pretentious"
Of course I answered her "What Moi"
;-)
137 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:29:45
The board are fuckwits and so is Moshiri if he lets Martinez off the hook.
138 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:35:12
His unwillingness to face up to his own defects and shortcomings leads to an offloading of responsibility on to who ever - fans, players, even other systems.
His rigid even punishing adherence to his philosophy, even when all the evidence would suggest it's failing is bordering on narcissism. Abit of self honesty and introspection he might come back a better manager.
Just not at Everton.
139 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:38:17
You have nailed it 150% for me.
To listen to El nut job in his press conferences, going back to last season when things started going tits up,up until his interview with Carragher yesterday,your theory stands up all day long!
Was it just me or did anybody else get the feeling that Carragher (in his questioning),was kinda taking the piss out of RM? Or just confirming to a wider audience what us Evertonians have been onto for the last 2 seasons?
I gave up on Martinez last season, I just could not sit and watch anymore of that slow paced pass pass pass bollocks,coupled with his post match interviews, give me strength! I deplore anybody insulting people's intelligence especially when you know (as clear as day) what you have just witnessed.
I applaud everybody at the game today who protested, I have so much respect for each & everyone of you, personally (& I know this has been mentioned above) the best ever way is to stay away & vote with your feet.
Up the blues.
140 Posted 30/04/2016 at 23:50:41
I live in Pompey don't drive so it'll be an early train and late home. Still love Everton long after Kenwright has gone.
BTW, I can't abide Martinez but it was Bill who told him he was good enough to be Everton manager.
141 Posted 01/05/2016 at 00:18:48
142 Posted 01/05/2016 at 00:22:42
These are only the visible signs. Imagine what he must be saying behind closed doors. Kenwright is disgusting.
143 Posted 01/05/2016 at 00:47:05
My sentiments exactly,it makes you wonder where RM get's his arrogance from! 2 delusional clowns with the same mind set.It is a frightening combination.
Surely Moshiri will make some important decisions soon.
144 Posted 30/04/2016 at 00:51:54
Nope.
The silence from the Club is encouraging.
145 Posted 01/05/2016 at 01:12:48
146 Posted 01/05/2016 at 01:32:06
147 Posted 01/05/2016 at 02:02:13
I myself am not a clinical psychologist. However, I have previously sported a suit that some very pissed up tart projectile vomited tikka masala all over until it resembled something Madds Mickelson might rock in 'Hannibal', and I've also sunk enough whiskey that the wife has started to look a little like a weirdly deformed Wendigo.
With that in mind, my own take on Martinez is that he's a stubborn twat tethered to a philosophy pony that pulled up lame a long time ago. Rather than listen to repeated pleas from bystanders to simply cave in it's skull with a bat and go catch the fucking bus instead, he'd rather stay rooted where he is, whispering sweet nothing's up it's arse in the mistaken belief the poor bastard is bound to make a miraculous recovery sooner or later. He's 'The Horse Shit Whisperer', if you will.
Personally, I think it's something of a leap to suggest unmet playing ambitions (let's not forget he was actually a defensive player in his day) lie behind his strict adherence to one idealised 'style'. It's just as likely to be a simple byproduct of his footballing upbringing, hailing as he does from Belaguer in Catalonia with Barcelona being it's closest club, and the fact he long ago backed himself into a corner by repeatedly waxing lyrical in public about how he would never, ever betray his beliefs, win, lose or draw.
If he is indeed a man who can only ever be satisfied by attaining perfection, as you suggest, then surely he wouldn't be so quick to shrug off repeated errors and dropped bollocks from the boys he elects to send out on the pitch week after week, nor would he neglect to work on certain fundamental areas that can effect both performances and results, such as set-pieces, defensive shape and physical fitness.
148 Posted 01/05/2016 at 02:05:02
150 Posted 01/05/2016 at 04:11:29
We've got zero ambition. We've not had any real ambition for years and that is a fundamental flaw in our DNA; fuck me that needs to change because I actually think we've got used to being utter shite. To a point we've accepted this shite standard of expectation. For the record buying big name players doesn't always show ambition.
Martinez came to us and made a statement that we would get into the Champions League and all that sounded great.
Ranieri went to Leicester and became part of a club that had been planning to win this league years ago. The Chairman was up for it and he installed that belief into his manager and the manager into the players.
This club needs a shake down and we need to see the entire board thrown out with the Manager right behind them. We need a proper clear out, not only to get rid of the existing hierarchy but a step change in the whole psychology of the club and the way we think.
151 Posted 01/05/2016 at 08:06:37
Sometimes people get so caught up in a discussion that they miss what is right in front of of them so -
Can I ask you a few questions regarding your link to the Twitter photo:
Is that bloke with his arm over the shoulder of the other bloke holding the "we want Mourinho" sign Farad Moshiri ? ;)
Was the photo taken in the directors box before, during or after the Bournemouth game?
Is the bloke holding the "we want Mourinho" sign you?
If not who is it?
Who took the photo?
152 Posted 01/05/2016 at 10:30:20
It's not even contestable.
When Martinez is given the vote of confidence (which he will), people will begin to realise the futility of banners in the sky, sit-ins after the game, social media protests and forum anger.
"The jury" has not given the thumbs down and until they do... he's staying.
Damian Wilde
An interesting view of the manager from a psychological perspective.
Personally I just think he's crap, a second rater who cant be arsed to do his job properly.
If he's a perfectionist, Nigel Farage is a diplomat.
153 Posted 01/05/2016 at 11:36:53
Paul (138) some good points. He is quite narcissistic and like you point out has many defences (psychological not football!) e.g. 'It's the ref, the fans, the players, lack of money...'
Tony (139) cheers. I'm the same yoo, was fed up with him last season and cannot stand the slow passing game.
John (147) some good points. To sum up in in nob-psychological terms, he is 'mad'.
155 Posted 01/05/2016 at 12:08:15
It tells me he doesn't give two fucks about his beloved blues or what the fans think. He is every bit as arrogant as Martinez, and no better than our former dickhead, Peter Johnson.
157 Posted 01/05/2016 at 13:13:06
If Naiase is our future we are doomed. Who was responsible for signing him. He is a non league player at best.
158 Posted 01/05/2016 at 13:53:14
He is 35, yet his tackles were almost all perfectly timed. He knows instinctively, when to go in, and when to hold off. There is nothing flash, just good old-fashioned competence and grit.
Stones went marauding forward, because he knew the Door was firmly closed behind him. Hibbo is probably too old to play every week, but a bit of stiffening the backbone might have helped earlier in the season. Nobody is laughing at Wes Morgan and Robert Huth now, are they?!
I was despairing over Niasse, until he showed a couple of touches that suggested there might, just might, be something there next season.
I think many fans are misreading the Board badly. My view is, that they have already decided Martinez is going; I suspect it was a condition of Moshiri buying in. However, I think he has allowed himself to be persuaded by BK that the axe should fall in the summer, when RM can leave with a little more dignity.
I do not believe for one second, that Moshiri is going to give RM another chance.
160 Posted 01/05/2016 at 15:12:59
I have a ST, but will not go the game again under RM, I will not be there against Norwich, I'm going to vote with my feet, do it!
As for Hibbo, he played welk, but it shows our smsll club mentality that a player who was finished years ago is still getting into our first team. I actually laughed when I saw him come on, we're a joke.
161 Posted 01/05/2016 at 15:15:05
The article appears to mostly centre on his pre match interview yesterday, however the fact he has been "called out" on sky's nationally watched Sunday supplement can only mean another nail in the coffin, can't it?
162 Posted 01/05/2016 at 17:31:46
We have a player who is a complete waste of time who is in the position of the names above. Yes, James McCarthy, has been a complete waste of time:
Box-to-box player? No.
Always wanting the ball? No, never.
Creative? No.
Is it James's Fault? No.
As in Barkley's positional play and Lukaku"s laziness to come from an offside position, it's bad coaching and bad team set-up. Would James be more suited to a 4-5-1 formation? We will never know while Roberto is in charge but, in my opinion, a 4-5-1 would suit James McCarthy.
163 Posted 01/05/2016 at 20:56:20
Because these days it is all about the coach, with all the clubs being so rich. Those with a progressive coach like West Ham, Spurs, Liverpool and Leicester do well while those stuck with one playing a style of football five years out of date -us - underachieve.
So I can't believe he will allow Martinez to stay, though perhaps it just wishful thinking on my part.
164 Posted 01/05/2016 at 21:37:33
Yes it is Farhad Moshiri with his arm over the shoulder.
I don't know at what stage of the proceedings it was taken. The photo is not of me (holding the sign).
I found the photo via twitter and it looks as though the guy who made the twitter posting (Phil) is the guy in the photo with Moshiri. I have no idea who took the photo but I would imagine it would have been a mate as obviously it was a set up.
165 Posted 01/05/2016 at 22:59:00
166 Posted 02/05/2016 at 15:37:45
Winning cups and titles is the only thing that matters and it's been far, far too long that the club has been professionally competent enough to even come close and it's got to change. Everything about the whole philosophy of the club has to change to be fit for the 21st century because it isn't now and hasn't been for decades.
167 Posted 03/05/2016 at 09:49:18
It's not like we played well either same problems of no energy, no bite, poor passing etc etc... still remain. Make no mistake we are in a relegation battle next season with this idiot in charge.
I just don't know how the board can't see that. I know they obviously don't care about what we think but surely they care about staying in the Premier League, even if only for financial reasons.
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1 Posted 30/04/2016 at 14:11:21