Lukaku leads terrific fightback win at West Brom

, 27 September, 276comments  |  Jump to most recent
West Bromwich Albion 2 - 3 Everton
Everton came back from 2-0 down to win at The Hawthorns as Romelu Lukaku scored two and created another for substitute Arouna Kone to round off what was eventually a thrilling contest.

Roberto Martinez's side looked to be heading for a demoralising defeat when Craig Dawson lost Ross Barkley at a 54th-minute corner to head home West Brom's second goal that put the Baggies firmly in the driving seat after Saido Berahino's first-half strike.

West Brom should have been a goal down after half an hour when Gerard Deulofeu's perfect ball laid a goal on a plate for Ross Barkley but the midfielder couldn't supply the finish.

Ramiro Funes Mori was handed his full Premier League debut this evening at The Hawthorns in place of the injured John Stones but the Argentine was caught in possession wide on the left shortly before the break and Barry gave the rebound straight to James Morrisson.

He then fed the ball to Berahino and the striker's shot looped in off Tim Howard's leg to make it 1-0 at half time.

Lukaku's immediate response to Dawson's goal sparked the fightback, however. The Belgian rose above James Chester to guide the ball home just a minute later off Deulofeu's excellent cross.

Then, after the excellent Brendan Galloway had denied Rondon a goalscoring opportunity with an impressive last-ditch tackle at one end, Lukaku turned provider at the end of a good passing move with 15 minutes to go with a determined run infield and a through-ball that split the defence and put Kone in to slot past the 'keeper.

Everton carried the greater momentum into the closing stages and when the ball was worked out to Deulofeu on the right side once more, he supplied another dangerous early cross that Lukaku was able to knock forward and then crash home almost on the goal line for Everton's third.

Rickie Lambert came within inches of a dramatic equaliser two minutes from time as a ball from the right arrived at his feet in front of goal but, thankfully, his shot flew wide.

The result was an inspiring example of the Toffees' resolve and potency and it not only preserves their unbeaten start away from but also lifts them into fifth place in the Premier League heading into Sunday's Merseyside derby.

Full coverage: ToffeeWeb Match Reports



Reader Comments (276)

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Jim Bennings
1 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:11:06
Bit harsh on Kone but I guess Naismith is more likely to grab
a goal.

Big night for Funes Mori, let's hope Stones isn't going to be missing for too long.

Craig Fletcher
2 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:15:46
Agree Jim.

Big night for Funes Mori, and Browning too. I like this team though. WBA will be well-disciplined at the back so let's hope Deulofeu will find a way to unlock them.

Stephen Brown
3 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:16:52
I like the look of that !
Tony Page
5 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:18:51
I don't like the line-up, Deulofeu, Barkley and Lukaku don’t do enough in defence.

West Brom will have a go at us, so we have to have eleven players all doing a job, not just standing still.
Trevor Lynes
6 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:18:54
We are in a mess if any of our centre backs get a knock.

Good to see both Osman and Oviedo on the bench.

Let's hope our luck is in and we get no injuries. It is a side with goals in it but the forwards will need to do their share of work.

Barry McNally
7 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:22:59
Missing the 4 starters shows on the bench; I hope we don’t need to rely on the subs!
Julian Wait
8 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:23:34
Decent team. Rom has top show up though. If not he should be subbed for Lennon and Naismith pushed up front.
Andy Mack
9 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:23:53
Not much experience in that back line, hopefully youthful exuberance along with Jags and the unknown quantity of FM will be OK. Let's just keep in in their half and all good. Vic isn’t playing for the Baggies is he?
Christy Ring
10 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:29:33
Stones and Coleman are huge losses, big test for Funes Mori. Why did Martinez play Stones against Reading, if he was carrying an injury from the Swansea game? I hope Bob is keeping them wrapped in cotton wool for Sunday.

I’m delighted Deulofeu is in ahead of Kone, and hoping Lukaku will have his shooting boots on, and we continue our good form with 3 points tonight.

Keith Glazzard
11 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:37:52
Given the limitations imposed, I don’t think there can be too many grumbles about the 11 he’s put out. Deulofeu and Naismith could unlock them - they certainly won’t be happy to see that as our selection.

Is it COYB of COYG tonight?

Craig Fletcher
12 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:39:00
Andy (6) Big Vic is on the bench, along with McManaman and Lambert.
Thomas Surgenor
13 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:39:06
Delighted with that line-up. It's the best we have available.

However, my concern is that I’m getting déjà vu from last year and always worry about Naisy and Barkley in the same line up.

As long as Barkley plays central – I’m happy.

David Hallwood
14 Posted 28/09/2015 at 19:41:31
Blimey, I called it right! Decent-looking team. COYB
Harold Matthews
15 Posted 28/09/2015 at 20:00:37
With this front line-up we'll have to be ready for a counter-attack. Loss of possession written all over it.
Michael Patison
16 Posted 28/09/2015 at 20:46:51
Lots of talk about Funes Mori starting and rightly so. Looked nervy in the opening stages, but I think he's looked pretty good the rest of the time, barring that shocking shot attempt at ~37 minutes.

Over here on US TV pre-match coverage, Martinez made a point of mentioning that Funes Mori already speaking English has helped a lot with him settling in and adapting. Thought I'd mention that because not only do I think that's very true but also because I wanted to mention that he knows English because he grew up in the same city in the States that I did. He even played for my local club's youth sides for a very short time (5 months) before being picked up by River Plate's youth setup.

Right as I say that he tries to do too much, gives to ball away, and a Berahino goal results. Maybe I jinxed it all.

Harold Matthews
17 Posted 28/09/2015 at 20:49:08
No-one on near post goal-line for Delboy cross. Again, again, again.
Michael Polley
18 Posted 28/09/2015 at 20:53:14
Coleman & Stones are a big miss. Poorly conceded goal; mistakes by Funes Mori & Barry.

We need more intent in the 2nd half. COYB

Peter Morris
19 Posted 28/09/2015 at 20:53:15
It’s one of those games where all the angles are out on the passing; all slightly awry of the target, or going to a striped shirt. Fuck, this team frustrates!

VERY VERY POOR INDEED

Barry Morrison
20 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:00:12
Harold (#15). He hits it every time and hits it well. If I can see it and you can see it, how come one of our £75k per week strikers can’t???
Jim Potter
21 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:13:31
2-1 down and looking poor. Looks like Tim Vickery was right about Funes Mori being a struggler in the PL.
Jim Potter
22 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:41:45
Great come back. Not been too convincing. Three good finishes.

Please get fit before Sunday, Stonesy. (And Seamus – but Browning did well enough.)

Alexander O'Brien
23 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:43:19
Lukaku! GOALSCORER!

Leave him out, people said!

Pfffft

John Paul McGurk
24 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:46:12
Gerry D, when fit, has to play, no buts or ifs... he’s magic, you know!
John Paul McGurk
25 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:48:48
Gerry now is a team player.. knows when to dribble.. knows when to take on...
John Paul McGurk
26 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:49:38
And pass!
Stephen Brown
27 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:56:29
I credit this win to Andy Craven bringing up 3-2 comebacks this week! Brilliant comeback!!
Tony Hill
28 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:59:29
Shockingly bad but utterly beautiful. Massive result that one.
Julian Wait
29 Posted 28/09/2015 at 21:59:48
I guess Rom showed up, second half at least; I think he was lucky to stay on after the first half.

Credit Bobby, for a correct call and another one for the subs he DID make that turned the game around ....

James Flynn
30 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:00:13
A Pulis side at home up two in the second half.

What a comeback.

Michael Polley
31 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:01:27
Great comeback. Kone coming on was a good call by RM
One very Evertonian tonight
Barry Morrison
32 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:02:19
If only Gibson could stay fit. He knows how to pick a pass in midfield - a forward one.
Max Murphy
33 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:03:42
Good comeback, but shocking performance. Too many mistakes. Gerard D best player. Their first goal was a direct consequence of Martinez’s tactics of passing it out from the back. Funes Mori should have hoofed it up the field, but it falls to Barry .... I’m still pinching myself that we actually won!
Julian Wait
34 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:04:09
From Twitter: "(Everton) win away league game from two goals behind for first time since 4-3 at Ipswich, 16 November 1985, when 2-0 down after 28 mins"

About time!

:-)

Tony Hill
35 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:04:28
Wonderful performance from Galloway, he is going to be a really significant player for club and country.
Dave Ganley
36 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:04:43
Steven (#25), I was going to say the same myself. Great comeback... sets us up nicely for Sunday now.
Jamie Sweet
37 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:05:06
Has a Pulis side ever lost after leading 2-0? Fantastic result!
Keith Glazzard
38 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:07:10
Great result! Think about tomorrow, just enjoy it now.
Keith Glazzard
39 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:08:07
ps: How much is Deulofeu worth I wonder?
Ian Cowhig
40 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:09:21
I know Lukaku scored two. But Deulofeu was Man of the Match for me. The number of balls he put in to dangerous areas was fantastic. Not so good when he tries to take players on. But with hardly any space he can put a ball on a sixpence.
Julian Wait
41 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:09:27
Jamie - yes he has

Link

Ray Roche
42 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:09:43
Julian, we cam back from 0-2 against Wimbledon in '95.
Paul Jeronovich
43 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:10:14
Well done blues. Said it before, Lukaku is the best striker we have had for years.

Great result lads, Geri was top class as well.

Julian Wait
44 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:10:40
My bad - Irvine was manager then, not Pulis ...
Julian Wait
45 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:11:38
Ray - we were home for that one - this was specifically for away league games ...
Chris Gould
46 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:12:00
Jim, I disagree completely with your verdict on Funes Mori. I thought he grew as the game went on and didn’t do much wrong. He got caught out for their first goal, but he wasn’t the only one at fault. For his first start in the Premier League, I think he did very well.

I am thrilled for Lukaku, but was finding him very frustrating to watch in the first half. He was never in the box when Geri was whipping some great balls in. Second half, the penny dropped and he showed what he can do. Geri was fantastic. A yard of space and a brilliant delivery.

Gavin Johnson
47 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:13:49
Well done, Rom! I predicted on another thread he’d get a brace tonight. What a riposte to his haters.
Stephen Brown
48 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:14:42
Geri really does have a touch of real quality!

Funes Mori had a decent game apart from his part in the first goal! I think Galloway at 19 is a real gem! New contract needed I feel!

John Jones
49 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:17:13
We showed spirit. we looked good and missed a couple of great chances in the first half. I was cursing Rom at half-time; we have all watched football long enough to know that a good goalscorer takes a chance to get on the end of anything that comes into the box. In the first half, he wasn’t taking that chance; in second half, he did, that was the difference.

Has Bobby got Deulofeu to watch videos of Beckham in his heyday? You don’t always need to beat the man to put in a great cross.

Happy man tonight, well done the boys who traveled down, loud as ever! COYBB.

Dennis Ng
50 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:17:29
New contract plus a steep buyout clause! Good rally from behind. Missed the first four goals but back at my desk just in time for the winning goal. That should be how we attack from now on!
John Daley
51 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:18:36
"Looks like Tim Vickery was right about Funes Mori being a struggler in the PL."

Talk about jumping the gun. For a full debut, I thought he grew into the game and acquitted himself admirably against one of the more physical sides in the league.

True, he was caught dwelling on the ball in the build up to their goal, but it was Barry’s unforced error that provided the real opening for the fatal blow in that instance.

What I did like in particular is that he’s not shy in just getting shot of it into the stand when the situation calls for it.

Paul Tran
52 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:22:12
Funes Mori ’struggling’? Really? Looked good to me. Made one mistake in the build up to the goal, which wouldn’t have mattered if Barry hadn’t given the ball away. Looks to me like a good solid defender who can play a bit, while still being happy to smash it up the park.

I don’t care who bought him, I don’t care which country he comes from, I don’t care what one ’journalist’ says. My eyes are seeing a good player.

Gavin Johnson
53 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:23:13
Funes Mori was shaky in the first half, but the lad's made a big move and needs to get accustomed to the Premier League. Let's not jump the gun just yet. He did grow into the game and I’m sure we’ll see the best of him once he’s adapted to the hustle and bustle of a foreign league.
John Daley
54 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:23:42
Lukaku may get the lion's share of the plaudits but special praise must go to Deulofeu. For a player who was being panned by some in the summer as nothing more than a show pony with a non-existent assist rate, he’s certainly put enough chances on a plate in his time on the pitch so far.
Tony Draper
55 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:24:20
Terrific result and achieved with entertaining football going forward. Credit to our back four too. (Let’s face facts here, Galloway would have been fourth choice left back, Funes-Mori probably not expected to start until Xmas, and Browning third choice right back.)

Deulofeu was my clear MotM, superb crossing created mayhem in WBA’s defence and Lukaku loved it.

Big credit to Martinez for putting Kone on for Naismith. Nais had scrapped but Arouna’s ability to collect the ball back to goal offered us a completely different dimension.

Barkley was great, not everything came off, true. But, he kept winning the ball and his repeated contributions made a world of difference. When a player with that level of skill is continually busy it must be exhausting and demoralising for the opposition.

On another note, McCarthy’s dive was pathetic, never want to see that from Everton.

Bloody delighted.

Julian Wait
57 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:25:57
Stats aside, a rousing comeback and some valuable confidence for the weekend. I thought Funes Mori was OK, Browning was OK too but seemed to end up out of position more than Galloway, who was excellent; but we could use both Stones and Coleman back for the derby, but only if fully fit - otherwise these lads can all do a job.

I’d probably start the same midfield and forwards as tonight, but Nais needs to keep his cool but bring the energy, and McCarthy needs to stay on his feet (ie, embarrassing dive) this weekend.

Brent Stephens
58 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:26:42
How good is that Kone lad this season!
Ray Roche
59 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:29:19
Julian Wait (#42),

Sorry, Julian, I thought it was all games.

Brent Stephens
60 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:30:12
Decent game by Funes Mori. His first EPL start.
Tony Draper
61 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:31:18
Brent @54, very well said.

Just shows what difference a full recovery from a career threatening injury makes. Maybe we need to be more patient more often and reap the rewards?

Tony Hill
62 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:31:36
I thought Ross had a poor game tonight actually but I don't care. Let's hope he plays against the RS like he did 2 years ago at our place.
Frank Sheppard
63 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:32:48
Things weren’t going well, 2-0 was harsh but they kept at it, and bossed the game and deserved the win. I think Barry should get a positive mention, thought he was excellent tonight.
Dave Ganley
64 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:33:49
Yeah I thought Funes Mori was decent, as was Galloway. Daft goals to give away but that's typical Everton really. Important thing is, we pulled it round for the win. Happy days.

On another note, how great is it to see Neville and Carragher gnashing their teeth in frustration at our comeback. Fuck you both.

Dennis Ng
65 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:34:12
I’m really thrilled by Kone’s impact but we probably should pack him in cotton wool once a while. At this rate, £5M is a steal.
Brent Stephens
66 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:35:05
Tony, people can't hang around waiting for patience.
Peter Gorman
67 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:36:36
If Rom improved his first touch and every player was on Deulofeu’s wavelength, we would walk this league.

Happy with the result but not the performances from people who should be doing better. Galloway was hands-down our best player over 90 mins, very impressed with this kid.

More than happy to forgive a defence that had 3 players with so little PL experience but Barry, Barkley, Naismith and McCarthy were dreadful for the most part. The latter guilty of an absolutely shameless dive to boot.

Kone made an impact up front and some lovely reverse passes from Rom but that first touch holds him back. If he spent all summer working on it we would have a total beast. Great spirit though and fair play to Martinez for some positive subs when needed.

Jamie Crowley
68 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:36:56
I love Rom, but he does my head in.

In an honest moment, he looks disinterested and in second gear at times. You watch him and yell, "Move dammit!!"

Then... bam!

I’ve always backed the guy because he’s got talent. If he’s continually getting balls played into his feet with his back to goal, it can be ugly at points.

But when that kid is in a 50-50 charging towards goal? Magic.

Play to his strengths, see what happens? Get behind Rom and recognize him for what he is – an asset to Everton and one hell of a young striker.

What... a... game...!!! Three points, thank you very much.

Brin Williams
69 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:37:16
Brent (#56), I agree, Funes Mori had a pretty decent game – for a first EPL start.

I thought the back four all played well and it’s great to see the young lads getting a start and gaining invaluable experience; first goal was a bit of a cock up but hey... this is football.

All-in-all a great result, a confidence booster ahead of the shite visit and more importantly no injuries.

Some of these yellow cards are being collected in silly circumstances and it’s time we took a dim view of these actions – whoever’s birthday it is.

Martinez, great (incredible) substitutions. Good night all.

James Stewart
70 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:38:20
Funes Mori was worrying but it's early days. I don’t like his hanging on to the ball too long but he needs time to adjust.

Deulofeu was excellent and his crossing was first class. Kone and Lukaku look a handful when both of them are on. Neither is mobile enough to stretch teams as a lone striker.

Terry Murphy
71 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:39:22
Just imagine what we could do if Martinez could organise a defence? Hang on a sec... haven’t we just seen one of the least experienced back fours garner 12 points from 7 tough games? Credit where credit is due, we’ve just seen youngsters come through and fit in relatively easily; that doesn’t happen by chance.
Colin Glassar
72 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:39:39
Everton can take you from New Brighton to Disney World in 90 minutes.
Peter McHugh
73 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:39:41
That was probably the worst most effective performance by an Everton striker I have ever seen. Hope that makes sense.

He’s magic you know
Gerard Deulofeuuuuuu....
He’s magic you know
Gerard Deulofeuuuuuu....

Dave Southword
74 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:39:56
Very happy with the win and eventually the performance. Funes Mori looks all right to me. With Deulofeu able to put in dangerous balls whether beating the man or not we'll always have a threat.

Extremely disappointed in McCarthy. He can cut that out.

Peter Cummings
75 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:43:38
I thought we were out of it when their second went in, I was fuming as Lukaku ran around like a headless chicken in the first half as we missed two sitters.

Cue Deulofeu and a second-half miracle, the kid is a little genius, his dinks into the area for Lukaku's two goals caused mayhem and won the game. I don’t know who was commentating calling both goals ’debatable’ Kone’s offside and the winner handball, Clowns!!!

Andy Mack
76 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:43:51
Galloway, chucked in at the deep end and hasn’t had a less than good game all season, great to see a youngster with some consistency, it’s not all about Stones – but don’t tell the redtops.

Deulofeu, is there a better assist player to have on the pitch in the second half of a game? Well done lad. That said, I can’t believe we won that one; I thought it was going to be the same old Everton.

A win at the weekend and we are flying this season.

Timothy Blanshard
77 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:44:14
I hope Lorro cashed in at half-time, he predicted we’d get done 2-0; in reality, it’s what he wished would happen. I did have that familiar sinking feeling in the first-half but this team's attitude of never giving in is what we all want to see.

As for Lorro, hurry up and make us another negative prediction for the derby, you red-tinted glassed quilt.

Dennis Ng
78 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:44:47
Colin, I think they only used 50 mins to do that (first goal at 42 mins).
Graham Mockford
79 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:46:01
Galloway looks a cracking piece of business. He's quick, strong and full of self belief. He's been thrown into it with Leighton's injury but he has really stepped up. A future England player I suspect.

I do understand the frustration some have with Rom, when he's playing well he is unplayable. However the stick he has received has been shocking in the last few weeks. Really some of you should get a grip. He has now scored 42 goals in 87 games, for a striker not playing in a top 4 side that's pretty impressive for me. I hope there is some humble pie being eaten tonight.

Finally Gerry looks a much better player to me. More disciplined, but still with real quality. He needs to start on Sunday.

Callum Lapsley
80 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:46:21
That will give the team some real confidence coming back from two goals against a Pulis team. Seems this team has a bit of steal about it and maybe just maybe top four will be possible this year especially when our injured players come back.

We have a serious squad now that I feel can compete with the big boys... exciting times, I feel!!!

Victor Jones
81 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:46:25
Everything is very tight in the Premier League this season, so that was a welcome three points. Martinez now has options but I still favour a 4-4-2 formation. Or maybe now to accommodate Deulofeu, a 4-3-3 set up. But to get Lukaku scoring, we need a fit Arouna Kone alongside him. For now, it works. Good to see Lukaku back scoring. Let's hope that he does not go missing for another month.

Good to see Gibson back. No matter what people think, he brings options to our midfield (when fit).

I have said a few times that I think that we have a serious team on our hands, when everyone decides to turn up. We have started the season reasonably well. But I get the feeling that it could get better. Let's hope that everyone clicks on Sunday, especially our match winners: Barkley, Deulofeu and Lukaku. And try not to go a goal down. We have done that twice this last week. Me old heart cannot take much more.

Credit to our two youngsters in defence. Browning and Galloway. The future will be in good hands. Well played... no matter what people think.

Dave Williams
82 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:46:43
Funes Mori had a super game and looked very solid. Galloway could be as good as Stones and Rom stuffed his critics' words down their throats. Way too slow in the first half but we improved a lot and Gerry had a very good game. We would never have done that last season and you can see the spirit in the team.

The doom-mongers had us relegated after 10 games and here we are in fifth place with one defeat in seven. Oh, and Kone again looked a decent player – another smack in the teeth for those who wrote him off as crap for having the nerve to be badly injured!

Now just win on Sunday boys... please!!!

Stephen O'Donnell
83 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:46:55
Well done, blue boys brilliant comeback, 3 points will do us now.

Let’s turn the RedShite over on Sunday.

John Malone
84 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:48:15
Deulofeu showed his best and worst tonight extremely frustrating sometimes but on the other hand absolute quality in providing assists for Lukaku!

Keep it up Gerry!

Peter Morris
85 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:49:26
Funes Mori is going to need time to adjust. I like his mobility and his confidence on the ball. On the flip side he will need to toughen up considerably to survive in this league. A bit of a headless chicken at times tonight.

Galloway was the star of the back four. Really confident and forceful for such a young lad and what a fantastic tackle to save the day versus Berahino. Put those padded pants on Bainesy because you’re gonna be warming that bench.

I thought Barry and McCarthy were poor. Too many negative and misplaced passes and not enough energy going forward. I agree that Gibson made a difference because he can reliably hit 30-yards passes, unlike his colleagues, but I expect we’ll hear tomorrow that he’s gone for a precautionary scan...

Christ, the newscaster on Granada News has just called Kone 'Cone', as in Ice Cream Cone... I don’t think they’d get a Man Utd player’s name wrong somehow... they always call Kirkby 'Kirk-by' too. Twats.

Dennis Ng
86 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:49:29
After Lukaku’s winning goal, it reminds me of this piece:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAUbdHw8QG4

David Milner
87 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:49:51
Good win from coming back from 2 goals down, but a few points. The goalkeeper has to make the decision whether to pass the ball short or not, not the Coach. It cost us the first goal when Gareth Barry got caught in possession.

Jags has to learn when to mark a player or when to go for the ball, second goal, and he cannot pass the ball.

What the hell was the headless chicken doing tonight, I can't fault him for effort but no class, Number 10 spot between him & Ross & is no contest.

Why was Tipsy brought on, Tyias had not put a foot wrong and if you are going for a back 3 then a far more advanced player, Lennon, should have been brought on earlier. He could have given Rodriguez his debut late on instead.

Si Cooper
88 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:50:35
Didn’t see first half but Radio Merseyside commentators said Everton were overall the better team and the scoreline flattered the Baggies. They were obviously trying to finish the game early in the second half, so tremendous credit for the lads sticking with it and eventually getting what they deserved.

The young lads seem to have got the whole squad up for it. After a matter of weeks in the country Funes Mori looks more composed than many of the centre backs who have had decent careers as Premier League defenders over the years. Far from proving Vickery right, I would say that so far he has proved him to be dead wrong.

Three of our back four must have barely double figures in terms of EPL games and yet they seemed pretty comfortable with each other already.

Paul Mackie
89 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:51:54
Funes Mori looks a good signing, Tim Vickery knows fuck all about any South American football that doesn't take place in Brazil, no idea why someone here put so much stock in his opinion.

Lukaku was typical Lukaku tonight. Looked inept and disinterested and then boom, creates a goal out of a pretty speculative cross.

Deulofeu was great. Glad to see that someone has taught him to pass the ball in the time he spent away from Goodison. Galloway was fantastic tonight as well.

James McCarthy though, hang your head in shame. Diving is not something Everton players should do and I hope Martinez publicly shames him on that. Not acceptable at all.

David Pearl
90 Posted 28/09/2015 at 22:52:09
I think the players looked scared in the first half and too conscious of an inexperienced defence. The second goal from WBA woke everyone up and forced them to go for it.

Geri can really whip the ball in nicely but Lukaku should stay in the middle to be effective.

Great come back win... and great for the confidence. Bring on the RedShite!!

Peter Roberts
92 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:01:00
Romnesia:- a condition that affects Everton fans who manage to forget how shite lukaku has played when he decides to run around for a bit and score a goal.
Colin Glassar
93 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:04:21
Tim Vickery is an idiot, Paul. I can’t think of anything else to call him. Funes Mori looks like a player.
Ian Riley
94 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:04:26
Hands up! Who was going to let rip on here at 2-0 down! West Brom fans should report a mugging to the police by Everton players. Give the manager credit for the subs. However, we cannot give goals away like that!

Anyway, let’s not worry tonight! Three points and working with West Brom fans tomorrow! Happy days!

Graham Mockford
95 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:05:39
Peter Roberts,

Romophobe – a person who fail to spot a centre-forward who scores every other game.

Ian Jones
96 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:06:53
I thought Gibson looked decent when he came on. Useful player to have.

I am in the ’not yet convinced by Lukaku’ camp. I think it’s more from frustration as I know what he can do, having seen him perform really well in games.

But then he makes one, scores two, and... well, that’s Lukaku. Just a shame that we don’t see it more often. It would be interesting to see how we would play without him... but if he keeps scoring, suppose I cannot complain...

Mike Keating
97 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:09:30
Bring on the RedShite and play Deulofeu from the start.

If Coleman is fit, we could be even stronger down the right.

Eugene Ruane
98 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:10:42
Delighted with the points and the performance showed great desire and a refusal to throw the towel in.

But fuck me, some of our decision making was baffling and to say we gave possession away easily would be an understatement.

In my opinion, we simply gave them both their goals.

The first, we have the ball, there’s no danger until...we simply present it to them.

The second - Howard is glued to his line and thinks flapping his arms might help (yeah someone should pick up the scorer, but the keeper is allowed to use his hands ffs).

Is it ever going to occur to him he can just plough through everyone and...juuuuuuump!!?

(At 30 whatever, doesn’t look like it does it?)

Anyway churlish to end moaning - Galloway and Deulofeu were wonderful and an away win without Baines, Stones and Coleman should be applauded.

Up the Toffees!

(Oh and Kone’s control helped us... although he was a nob-head for getting booked.)

Paul Tran
99 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:11:41
Some good points on the team there, David. It was actually Barkley who lost his man for the second goal. It took a few replays for Sky to suss it, but the evidence was there.

All of a sudden, are Martinez's transfer dealings starting to look better?

Mike Gaynes
100 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:15:05
David Milner (#76), may I nominate your post for WTF of the year? I realize the award doesn’t exist, but I would create it just for you.

Not sure what game you were watching on your planet... but here on earth, we won.

Victor Jones
101 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:16:16
I also thought that Funes Mori played well. I have no worries about him as cover at centre back.

I still have nightmares about some "defenders" that have been on our payroll. Tonight, the only players that I was disappointed with were Barkley. Barry and McCarthy.

But these players are not machines. And unlike last season, we got a response tonight. We would have rolled over and lost this game last season. Two down, we would have stayed two down.

Credit also to our manager. Has he learnt from last season? On the evidence so far, it seems that he has. Although he needs to start resting Barry. There are other options.

And Martinez also seems to have started talking sense in his interviews. I can actually understand him. Bloody hell.

Roll on Sunday.

Lewis Barclay
102 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:18:27
Lucky to win that one. As a mate of mine said "it’s a good sign when you win and played poo".

Going to be a different game on Sunday. I expect to see Coleman, Stones and Koné back in the starting 11.

John Malone
103 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:18:30
David (#76), Take it easy on those celebratory cans of Stella, mate!
Peter Gorman
104 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:19:11
Mike, I didn’t read anything too outrageous in David’s comments though I don't really agree with them. I mean, yes we won, but isn’t it more interesting to discuss the performance than just give a hip, hip hurray?
Ian Hams
105 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:19:43
Deulofeu – brilliant MotM. Lukaku – if he plays like that for half of every match this season, I’ll take it.

Galloway quickly becoming first choice Kone like a new signing this season. And I say it again, Funes Mori a decent debut barring one mistake, a vast improvement of the two we released.

Yes, there are negatives... but right now I’m feeling very positive.

Mike Gaynes
108 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:26:29
Eugene (#84), the sun rises in the east, water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and Howard stays on his line for corner kicks.

There are certain immutable laws of nature that never change and never will, and therefore aren’t worth talking about. Tilting the planet to make the sun come up in another direction is more likely than changing Howard’s style.

Peter Mills
109 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:27:57
I agree with Eugene’s post (#84) and would simply add to the end of it "and so was McCarthy".
Peter Roberts
110 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:29:23
Graham Mockford, deciding to put little shifts in here and there is not acceptable. Stop getting so excited by him, it's easily pleased fans like you who give the lad the impression that all he needs to do is wear a shirt for us.

Does his good second half mean that complete disgrace of a first never happened??? Made up we won the game but it was one person alone who was responsible for that Deulofeu.

Bob Skelton
111 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:29:26
Deulofeu is the difference. Lukaku needs good balls into the box and Geri provides crosses and width. We have to continue with him playing out wide as a Proper Winger..... Coyb.
Mike Gaynes
112 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:34:12
Peter (#89), that post was just so silly and so darned negative.... the "headless chicken", the "no class", the elementary school coaching suggestion to Jags and criticism of how Roberto carried out his strategic change — which brought us back from a 2-0 deficit for the first time in 21 years — that I felt it deserved a bit of derision more than a response.

What can I say... when somebody writes something that makes me shake my head so hard I get whiplash, it makes me grumpy.

Mike Green
113 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:34:26
Some of Deulofeu's crossing tonight was simply sublime, what a gift and what an asset for us.

Lukaku - talk about an Enigma, had a shocking game, scored twice and set the other up. Crazy.

Great to see the lads not stop from start to finish – that’s what ultimately won us the game. Kudos to the Albion fans who applauded Lukaku off too, that takes some doing when all things are considered.

Next Up Liverpool. On paper we should beat them easily. Hhhhhhhmmmmm... .not going to be quite as simply as that though is it.

COYB – let's be flying high on Sunday night. Oh, and well done Roberto, after me calling for you to be sacked after Watford you seem to have them ticking along a bit; my apologies.

Jim Jennings
114 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:35:51
Not read all the posts so apologies if I missed it but...

I am surprised nobody has mentioned how poor Browning was for the corner immediately preceding the second goal. He let Evans run off him, passed him off to someone else which gave him time to take a touch, cross for Fletcher to head (which Howard turned round the post for the corner they scored from).

Galloway on the other hand looks a terrific prospect. Nobody is talking about us missing Baines.

John Oleary
115 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:39:47
Graham (#71). My thoughts exactly.
Graham Mockford
116 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:40:06
Peter Roberts,

You obviously don’t like the guy but really tonight is not the time to keep venting your bile.

We were 2-0 down, he scores two and sets up the other. So yes, if that is ’easily pleased’ I’m fucking ecstatic.

This view that he is not trying and suddenly decides to try is absolutely ludicrous, I mean one of the most stupid lame-brained things I’ve ever heard.

9 games this season, 6 goals. I’ll take that every 9 games.

Kase Chow
117 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:40:06
Great win!
Gavin Johnson
118 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:41:24
A striker should be judged on the number of goals they score. Rom’s record speaks for itself! If we had Gary Lineker playing for us today, there’d be a TW contingent that would moan that he didn’t work hard enough for the team.
Peter Gorman
119 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:43:42
Mike, when you put it like that, fair enough! I can't really object anyway when I am one of the grumpiest sods here.
Jim Potter
120 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:47:04
Deulofeu – why try to beat a guy (two or three times) when you can cross like that? Superb.

Funes Mori – I sincerely hope he works out – but I was full of trepidation every time it went near him. Early days for sure. Even if he’d played a blinder, I just hope Stones is fit for the derby.

Gibson’s pretty good at driving us forward (when he’s sober).

And Rom? ... a glorious enigma.

Raymond Fox
121 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:47:27
We have a seriously strong squad now, if we can ever get them all fit at the same time!

Galloway’s been class from day one, he can walk into Stones boots no problem when the inevitable happens. Hope I’m wrong about Stones but I doubt it.

The manager deserves a lot of credit for having the confidence to put young players in the team when necessary, long may it continue.

Well done tonight lads, here’s to the weekend.

Colin Glassar
122 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:47:55
Jim, I think you’ll see it was Jags and Ross who lost their men for their 2nd goal.
Jim Potter
123 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:53:08
Colin, I’m not looking to bash Funes Mori. He’s now one of us and I hope he settles down and thrives. It’s tough going to a new country and into a makeshift defence who are getting to know each other. He made me a little more jittery than I normally am – and that’s bloody jittery!
Gordon Crawford
124 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:57:17
Jim (19) I thought the lad Funes Mori was excellent for his first competitive game. And tonight we also seen again the two sides of Lukaku. Blood frustrating at times, but then brilliant.
Colin Glassar
125 Posted 28/09/2015 at 23:59:30
Jim P, if you were replying to me I was in fact replying to Jim B regarding Browning and their 2nd goal.
David Hallwood
126 Posted 28/09/2015 at 00:04:57
Their first goal was 100% Barry’s fault. Yes, Funes Mori lost the ball but it went to Barry who wasn’t being closed down, and he could’ve squared it, hoofed it passed it back... Instead, he passed it to a West Brom player who, admittedly played a great ball in. Piss poor by an experienced player.

And Deulofeu... what can you say?? if a wide player had put one quality cross every game we’d be raving; but 5-6 in a one game!!! A shoo-in for the derby.

Peter Roberts
127 Posted 28/09/2015 at 00:07:25
Graham, the difference between him putting in effort and not putting effort is the difference between us having a goal threat and a passenger.

So you carry on clapping your hands and hoping that he decides to put in a shift in the Derby and keep quoting goal stats after games where he does naff all.

Delighted we won but I am far far from convinced by the lad's application and pride for the shirt. ENIGMA.

Graham Mockford
128 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:16:23
Peter,

You are not getting it. It’s not effort, it’s just ridiculous to suggest he decides when he is going to try or not.

I would be the first to admit he lacks consistency but to imagine this is a conscious decision is feeble. I look at his record, 42 goals 87 games. That may be ’quoting goal stats’ to you but it’s pretty important when you are playing centre forward.

And yes, I will keep clapping my hands, I’ve been doing it for over 40 years now, being an Evertonian and all.

Brian Porter
129 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:27:30
Great comeback, and a really entertaining second half in particular.

Unlike some, having watched his every move with a critical eye, I thought Funes Mori had a good game. Let’s remember, this was his Premier League debut in a far-from-first-choice defensive line-up.

He was NOT to blame for the first goal. He was doing as probably instructed by RM in trying to play the ball out of defence, was tackled and the ball ran to Barry who had time to pick a pass or simply hoof it clear. Instead, he played an inexplicably poor attempt at a pass straight to the opposition who capitalised on his glaring error.

Barkley should have put us in front but suddenly found his boots were on the wrong feet, and Deulofeu was simply sublime. He has to be a certain starter from now on. His crossing was the difference between victory and defeat tonight.

My only real jitters came from Browning who looked very uncomfortable at times tonight. Barry’s overall contribution was poor by his recent standards, as was McCarthy’s who seemed quite anonymous at times. Overall a great result and a superb fighting comeback, but we are still a work in progress and there are a few areas that RM needs to work on before Sunday.

I have no worries if Stones isn’t fit, but hope Coleman is back to fill the right back slot. That was definitely our Achilles heel tonight. Well done guys, a superb gutsy performance.

Brian Porter
130 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:41:27
ps: Jim Potter (#19), I think you were watching a different game to most of us. Funes Mori did more than okay tonight. He has confidence, a touch a class, and definitely doesn’t look out of place in the Premier League.

You seem to have a downer on him, but don’t take notice of everything that so-called South American ’expert’ says. He hardly ever leaves Brazil so what the hell does he really know about football in Argentina, who, let’s face it, think enough of Funes Mori to have selected him for their national team.

That’s ARGENTINA, Jim, not San Marino or some other no-hope nation. If they rate him so highly, I think you’ll find we have a damn good buy there.

Craig Fletcher
131 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:46:32
Graham (#112) brilliantly said.

I too have been a consistent supporter of Rom but at times admittedly he does frustrate. Nothing to do with lack of effort, but the lack of control / cheap giveaways goes to show he still does have some way to go to be the ’finished product’.

But on nights like this, he can be devastating. And overall I’ll take those several moments of quality a game he can produce if it leads to a goal or two.

Craig Fletcher
132 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:50:17
Oh and by the way, I was on the live forum earlier and there were a few interesting comments pre-Everton comeback, to say the least. Perhaps not surprising that those who vented most were decidedly quiet at the final whistle.
Jamie Crowley
133 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:52:39
To be contrarian...

I thought Funes Mori was responsible for the first goal – in part. Yes, it was just a brainless giveaway by Barry but, if Funes Mori doesn’t dally on the ball for an eternity before that, the Barry pass doesn’t happen. My initial reaction was Funes Mori was at fault.

That was one (the only) mistake I saw him make and he didn’t put a foot wrong the entire game other than that.

He’s going to be a very, very good player for us I think. I like the way he’s played in his short time here. He’s an excellent footballer and despite the "dally error" his MO is to launch the damn thing into Row Z when it’s needed.

Tamhas Woods
134 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:58:01
The minute that second goal flew in, I had a flashback to November 2005 when we shipped four at WBA - but this squad is a different animal.

Only one real problem for Everton at the moment..... what the hell does Martinez do when Baines is back from injury?!?

Baines has been a great servant to the club, but after Galloway's performances, how on earth can he be dropped?

He's 31 soon, and didn't impress me last season so I reckon we should sell him while there's mileage.... let's not forget Garbutt is still ours as well!

Craig Fletcher
135 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:02:15
Tamhas (118) it looks like Galloway might be lined up for Jag's long-term replacement at CB. Baines still has very much a part to play for Everton yet I feel.

Nevertheless I agree, when all are fit and healthy we have a very nice selection dilemma.

Harold Matthews
136 Posted 28/09/2015 at 01:02:28
A real good hard fought win after a very disjointed first half.

Pleased to see the big fella converting a couple of Delboy's wonderful crosses and young Galloway playing out of his skin. Great stuff indeed.

After an understandably nervy start, Funes Mori settled down and played a decent game on his full PL debut. Won many headers and soon forgot about the tippy tappy philosophy.

McCarthy is a worry. If we had another three from the same mould, we would end up attacking our own goal. Not surprised when Martinez said he brought Gibson on to help us move forward. Even Barry tries to push us forward. Young Macca will only risk it once or twice a match.

As for the Kone goal. Yes, his arm was offside but that non-scoring part of the body doesn’t count. A splendid pass by Lukaku by the way. Pleased for Kone but his yellow "birthday" card deserves a fine. It could cost us.

Anthony Dwyer
138 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:17:14
A pretty poor performance in terms of how we played tonight, I think. That said, I think we were brilliant against Swansea and only got a point, I know what result makes me happier.

In terms of what players deserve to play in the derby, I think that has cleared itself up. Deulofeu is a must, Naismith is a must not, Kone for me has to play. Kone makes Lukaku look like a £28m striker, he also closes the gap between Rom and the rest of the team.

For me, the team is now clear:

Howard
Coleman, Jagielka, Stones, Galloway
Barry, McCarthy
Deulofeu, Barkley, Kone
Lukaku

Barry was poor again tonight but I can’t see Roberto dropping his main man so the above side seems the most realistic and effective.

Victor Jones
139 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:18:37
Martinez is going to have a few headaches very soon, with team selection.
Tony Farrell
140 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:23:06
Has anyone else noticed or is it me? I think Lukaku has a major weight problem.

In the Southampton game, he looked lean and was really agile and as we know scored two goals; in the Swansea match, he looked sluggish, overweight, slow, sweating like a pig after 5 mins, and missed a couple of golden chances to win the game for us. Against the Baggies, he looked lean again and scored twice...

So Bob, mate keep him off the pies, get him in the sauna so he's ready to frighten the lives out of the RedShite this Sunday and bag another brace. And can we please ask Big Nev to educate Howard to command his area and come off his friggin' line!?!

Phil Sammon
141 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:31:32
Craig 116

Some people do go over the top, particularly on the live forum...but surely you understand their frustration. Until Lukaku's goal he was hopeless, as was the team as a whole. How many times does Deulofeu have to get the ball across the six yard box before somebody decides it might be worth getting in there.

Goals change games and ultimately Rom will get the plaudits today. I'm still massively disappointed with his all round play though. We cry out for him to get in the box and put himself about more. When he does, he is usually rewarded.

Anyway, I don't know why I'm arguing. I'm delighted we won...and always great to come from behind.

Christopher Wallace
142 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:33:25
Can we have a democratic vote that anyone using Tim Vickery or any other bell-end pundit to form their own opinion of a player they’ve never watched, and pass it off as fact, be banned from here??

It’s totally embarrassing.

Anyway, great result there... bring on the RedShite!!!

Paul Kelly
143 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:38:00
No bad press from me, just going to enjoy the result, get in there.
Clive Mitchell
144 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:47:38
Very interesting range of opinions on Funes Mori. I think he did OK in a poor team performance and that we all have to give it time, 15 games and more, before judging him. But I couldn't believe one online rag - gave almost all the players 6, including Howard who would have been lucky to get 5, and gave Funes Mori 4. What?
Mark Andersson
145 Posted 29/09/2015 at 01:56:26
Bit harsh Harold, why fine a player for celebrating a much needed goal, I think the rule is pathetic. Next they will be yellow cards for doing cartwheels.

Strange game but great result. I have been saying for weeks that the performance is just as important as the result.What we saw tonight was a poor performance but great team spirit and a win. That in my book is progress from last season.

So credit to Martinez, the derby will be a good indicator as to who has the bottle and composure to come out top.

Ernie Baywood
146 Posted 29/09/2015 at 02:12:15
The criticism of Ross is unfair in my opinion. Like Del, most of what he tries won't come off - that's the nature of creative players. In another game people would be slating Del and praising Ross. You just have to take the rough with the smooth... these players can create chances and you don't get those chances without taking a chance or two. Ross kept on coming back for more, we won, and that's all that matters.

You could actually say the same about Rom. I don't want him playing percentages. I want him trying to turn the game. He saves himself for the big moments - long may that continue.

I posted on the preview that this game would show a lot about our progression from last year. Teams just had to sit deep and defend against us and we were clueless - we were crying out for Deulofeu to provide a bit of unpredictability. And so it proved.

My bet will be that we won't carry quite so many unpredictable players into the derby. Liverpool are nothing special but they'll pose more that than WBA, who didn't look like creating anything unless we gifted it to them.

For what it's worth I thought we were comfortably the better side during the first half too. Were it not for the defensive lapses I think we'd be talking about a very impressive away performance.

Ernie Baywood
147 Posted 29/09/2015 at 02:18:27
Just to add I don’t think there were any individuals to blame tonight, but you could see the changes to the back line had an effect. There were times where you could almost see players take an extra step to think what sort of player Funes Mori is; where and how he should receive the ball. A settled defence makes a huge difference.

Funes Mori himself looks a decent enough player. Big, happy to throw his weight around and likes possession while having a penchant for a raking pass. Will be interesting to see him adapt and gain confidence.

Terence Leong
148 Posted 29/09/2015 at 03:09:56
Great to start the Tuesday with the results! Besides the 3 points that is paramount, what is crucial is that we battled back to get the points. Our lack for the past many years has been our ability to battle back when the chips are down.

While I would have preferred a clean sheet, the fact that the team can do that gives them belief to keep playing to the final final whistle. This will do the team a whole world of good.

Chad Schofield
149 Posted 29/09/2015 at 03:16:44
A great result, and it would have been unfair any other way really given the chances - but not great in parts.

I struggle to see the criticism of Rom but the heaped praise for Deulofeu, who had been arguably wasteful at times including what should have been a breakaway goal at the end. That’s not me saying Gerry’s shit, because he’s not and some of those balls in were sublime, but it’s similar to be constantly berating Lukaku... a 21(-ish) year old with a massive future.

Galloway was great. Funes Mori did well overall. I agree with the disappointment of McCarthy’s dive, but if the result had gone the other way the naysayers would have been saying we’re too nice and lack any professional cutting edge, probably.

I hadn’t expected us to do this well at this stage of the season... but rather like when the second went in against us last night, I hoped we would do better. A great come back, even better considering it was away against a Tony Pullis side with such an inexperienced back four in for us.

Jay Harris
151 Posted 28/09/2015 at 04:18:17
I thought Funes Mori struggled a bit tonight but still looked miles better than Johnny Evans.

Browning took time to settle but looks good defensively. However, he did not show much going forward and therefore gave us one less outlet to move the ball on.

Barkley had one of his off days but I thought McCarthy was everywhere including the rarefied air of the penalty area which obviously shocked him into crumbling on the floor.

Brendan Galloway just grows with every game and is good in the air (take note, Ross).

Once Lukaku and Deulofeu got up to pace, we looked ominous.

I just hope Coleman and Stones are ready at the weekend and I can honestly see us winning that.

Patrick Fennell
152 Posted 29/09/2015 at 04:37:44
I was very impressed with that comeback today. We’ve shown the ability to come back from being down which last year we just couldn’t do. Who thought we’d be 5th in the table after the first seven games?

I cannot wait till Baines, Stones, Cleverley, and Coleman are back from injury. Competition for the starting XI is going to be incredible.

Michael Polley
153 Posted 29/09/2015 at 04:58:39
Great comeback. Great fighting spirit. Getting our first goal quickly after their 2nd give us the confidence to go for it.

Impressed with Galloway, and Deulofeu was superb.

Lukaku may be a bit of an enigma, but hell when he is switched on he scores.

Ajay Gopal
154 Posted 29/09/2015 at 05:27:23
What a pleasant surprise for me to wake early morning with trembling hands to access the BBC Football site (just a superstition of mine - Everton have won whenever I open the BBC site, but have lost whenever I go to TW 1st thing!).

Great joy and satisfaction! I will watch the 20 minutes highlight on the Official Site when it becomes available, but from the comments on TW and the match reports, great game and super performance to come back from 2 goals down. And this without 3 of our 1st choice back 4! Plus Mirallas (who?), Cleverley, Pienaar not available.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to announce that we have a squad now! Do we dare dream?

Joseph Terrence
155 Posted 29/09/2015 at 05:45:55
Can everyone stop slagging off Kone for the yellow? It was his missus' birthday as well as being their anniversary ffs!
Rahman Talib
156 Posted 29/09/2015 at 06:04:36
Here are my comments:

1. It's time to sell Baines to Real Soceidad;

2. Tim Vickery don't know shit bout South American football;

3. Naismith was the real downer, he caused Lukaku to freeze.

Eugene Kearney
157 Posted 29/09/2015 at 06:12:46
Great result - now for 3 - 0 on Sunday!!!
Phil Sammon
158 Posted 29/09/2015 at 06:32:02
Joseph (#143),

It’s just a needless yellow card though isn’t it. I’m not particularly mad at him for doing it... but there’s no two ways about it, it’s stupid behaviour.

I notice he didn’t thank Allah for that goal either. What’s the man upstairs done to deserve that?!

Jamie Crowley
159 Posted 29/09/2015 at 06:36:03
The Man upstairs took a back seat to the little lady for like 10 seconds.

I'm sure he doesn't mind.

Not that I speak for him Phil, mind you...

Darren Hind
160 Posted 29/09/2015 at 06:51:09
Lyndon spoke about Lukaku's "conviction" in his report last week. I knew as I was reading it, that this argument would run all season.

Lukaku is vital to our chances. The shy one we saw in the first half is less than useless to us... but the bully we saw in the second can see us lifting a cup or challenging for a top four place this season. Fantastic brute strength from the big fella.

Other pluses: Another superb display from Galloway. (How can my favourite player get back in when fit?)

Deulofeu's confidence, Browning's maturity, Funes Mori's second-half performance. Barkley's form... and Kone (who knew?).

This result should not be underestimated; we were 2-0 down against a mean-arsed, time-wasting, frustrate-the-fuck-out-of-you Pulis side. With Stones, Seamus and Baines to come back, this season is looking full of promise.

Oh and a word for the manager; he's looked completely out of his depth at times, but he seems to have found the formula and if we are to criticise him for being "clueless", like some of you did last season, we should be more than happy with his performances so far this season.

Keeping Stones was always about more than just hanging on to a gifted youngster. It was a statement to fans, managers and players of other clubs, not to mention the Gobshites who earn a living writing headlines. He was also spreading a wave of optimism to every one who loves this club. I'm made up with him this morning

Amit Vithlani
162 Posted 29/09/2015 at 06:57:34
Funes Mori looked okay. Defensively he was fine, put some good tackles in and marked reasonably well. On the ball he has the technique but he is not yet fully confident and consequently looked hesitant. I think he needs 10-15 games and we will start to see him become more assertive. The problem is, once Stones is fit, he will be back on the bench so it will be a conundrum how to get him match time.

I thought Rom had a very good game. Twice under pressure he scored goals at the back stick/coming from the back stick. A few times he chested the ball and held it up well. His assist for Kone showed vision. He is developing into an all round striker.

I thought Nais did an honest job but Barks and Nais seem to make the same runs. West Brom packed their defense and as a result both looked ineffective as they did not offer width on the left.

We played a lot better after Kone came on, as he and Rom made clever movements between West Brom’s backline.

Gerry was superb and has to start on Sunday, alongside Kone and Rom. If Stones is fit he goes straight to CB as he and Jags will need to play well against Sturridge/Benteke – two players who have done well against us.

RB is a worry as Browning kept losing Berahino who he was detailed to mark.

Coyb.

Tony Hill
163 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:01:21
We look much fitter this season and are outlasting teams. It's shown in the final 20 minutes a couple of times and is very good to see after our rustiness last year.
Ian Bennett
164 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:15:24
I thought Gerry's vision was fantastic. He has to stay in the side. His crossing is right on the money. He can embarrass fullbacks by going past them. He could be unplayable.

Galloway gets stronger every game. It will be interesting to see what happens when Baines is fit.

Mori had a very decent away debut. One mistake, looked a bit shaky, but grew in the game and saw a huge amount of ball. A significant upgrade on Distin and Alcaraz.

Robert Workman
165 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:38:26
Saw only first 40 and last 12 minutes, due to Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, so just missed first and fourth goals – but saw the winner!

Usually the stream cuts off at end of game, but last night it stayed linked so I watched the so-called ’analysis’. What a disgrace! It was all about how WBA had lost the game without a key defender. Nothing about Everton’s fantastic comeback with 3 inexperienced defenders at Premier League level!

If the comeback had featured one of a certain five teams (enter name here..............) then it would have been all about them and nothing about WBA.

Martinez did well in his interview to keep talking about the game just played, when all anyone in the studio wanted to talk to him about was the forthcoming derby. Hope he enjoyed his moon cake!

Thomas Surgenor
166 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:45:20
In reality, we could (probably should) have scored 5. Poor decision-making from both Gerard and Ross but they will learn.

However, what a conundrum GD must be for full backs. Close him down and he will drift past you. Stand off him and he will deliver a ball with real quality.

Thomas Surgenor
167 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:46:49
(Sorry for two posts in a row)

The only thing I can see preventing GD from going to the very very top is that he is very predominantly one-footed.

Paul Tran
168 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:48:12
I really don't know what was going on with Martinez last season. Maybe it'll come out in a book in the future.

Whatever it was, we're back to two seasons ago. Resilient, together, hard to beat and lots of goals in us. Difference is that the young players are coming through and looking the part, the players appear more comfortable with the style of play, particularly as we are playing more quickly more often, maybe not often enough?

Last night I forgot that Baines, Stones, Coleman and Cleverley were injured. I've long given up on Mirallas. He's challenged Martinez's authority and I'll be surprised if he gets more than a handful of games while he's still here. I got a feeling he signed his contract in the absence of a better offer and we gave him one to maximise potential offers. You can't call Martinez 'soft' then criticise him for not accommodating a sullen, sulky player who can't fight his way into a winning team.

I hope this is a turning point. This is the sort of side we've regularly struggled against, we were two down and we won and should have won by more. We can kick on against that lot on Sunday. They have no local lad cloggers, they are an expensive average team. We're better than them, we all have to believe it and when we play to form, we win games.

Phil Sammon
169 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:52:45
Deulofeu has developed his game. Defenders are wary of him ripping down the outside so they give themselves a yard head start. He's now using that yard to get in a very early ball inside the defender.

My only worry with Deulofeu was that he could be too predictable. It's fantastic to see that he's recognising that and trying something new. Got to love a young player who's willing to adapt. Bodes very well for his development over the years.

Paul Tran
170 Posted 29/09/2015 at 07:59:19
Darren, to be fair to Martinez, he knew about Kone. This season he's been proved right. We needed someone to hold up the ball and bring others into the game. Kone is doing it well. Could do with scoring more goals, though.

People are right to criticise managers for playing their 'favourites', but when their favourites are playing well, what's the problem? This is becoming Martinez's team now. Perhaps we should move on from yearning for the Baines-Pienaar axis, the huff and puff of Fellaini and the unreliability of Mirallas and focus on the team we have, which looks to me like a better bet for a brighter future.

Jim Jennings
171 Posted 29/09/2015 at 08:05:41
Colin (#117 and #120),

I’m talking about the corner that led to the corner their second goal came from. The one where Howard tipped Fletcher’s header round the post. Re-read my post and see Browning’s role in this.

Ray Roche
172 Posted 29/09/2015 at 08:14:46
Peter Roberts (#89) and Graham Mockford (#92)

Very funny.

Les Martin
173 Posted 29/09/2015 at 08:17:14
The outcome shows the importance of giving Rom support. In the first half, there was a situation where he was against a defender and the ball went off his leg for their goal kick, there was no Everton player within 40 yards of him, he needs close support then he does the damage.

I thought Galloway was excellent, hard to believe his tender age. Funes Mori did very well in a tough league too initiate a centre-back, a position that is very unforgiving if you make a mistake.

I also like the fact that we have three very fast wingers to stretch defences especially in the latter of the game and playing on the break.

We could have a great season but I think it hinges on Barkley staying fit and fresh as we lack that No 10 that Martinez wanted so badly as back up.

Jim Lloyd
174 Posted 29/09/2015 at 08:32:46
Who the fuck is Vickery? A football expert? Beam me up Scotty! Ramiro did well when coming on as a sub against Chelsea and did well last night. I think we’ve got a top class player here. Ok, he made an error but so did Barry. Overall, he looks like the quality of Stonesy, calm on the ball, can bring it out or hoof it depending on the situation. Good player.

If (big if I know) but if we keep Stonesy then that’s going to be some partnership between him and Ramiro, while Brendan is just superb as well. Not only a good full back, he really won’t let any so called "big" name intimidate him.

The first half was frustrating but even so we could have easily been 1 up early on when Gerry put it on a plate for Ross. What was good is that we didn’t buckle after the second goal and what a recovery! Reminded me of the ’66 cup final that.

I thought it showed how frustrating but potentially world class players some of our young lads are.

Ross, is a mixture of brilliance and headless chicken. He sees wonderful opportunities for a pass at times; and at others he runs himself into blind alleys. I think he’ll become absolutely top class, if he can learn when to pass the ball when opportunities come. He’s like a lad who plays in the schoolyard and can beat half a team dead easy. Bags of natural talent, skillful and great engine.

Same with Gerry. I thought tonight, some of his running and passing were just sublime. He seems to be able to put in world class passes without any problem at all, then he’ll trip over himself doing too much. I don’t mind though, because he is just a fantastic prospect and like Ross, can become a great if he continues to mature as he is doing.

Rom? Well a mixture alright. But again, he’s young, he’s learning and he’s got an amazing ability to score goals. I think that his game depends a lot on the service he gets and with Ross and Gerry, he’ll get that service.

I think we’ve got a really good squad in the making and I think there’ll be ups and downs but more ups than downs.

Good second-half performance to pull back those two goals against a Pulis side.

I’m not looking forward to the Derby (me nerves go for a Burton) but if we play like we did in the second half, from the start, then that’ll do for me.

Tim O'Connell
175 Posted 29/09/2015 at 08:44:31
I am surprised at a few negatives for Funes Mori — he had a very competent game, his distribution was good and he won everything in the air.

A scrappy game but a very good end result. Deulofeu did put in some sublime crosses; he made a few defensive errors marking-wise... forgiveable last night but he must work on it.

It was actually Barry and Jagielka who made errors for the goals so well done to the youngsters for their contributions. Galloway certainly looks the business!

Steven Jones
176 Posted 28/09/2015 at 08:49:01
Guys, let's get some real perspective on Rom. I have been watching him closely in a number of games. In particular, live at Reading from the half-way line, so I got a good look.

He runs his balls off, is always showing for a lay-off or running in behind. The pace balls that come into him, he controls the vast majority really well. Sometimes he even has a phenomenal touch and moves the ball in one swift moment away from defenders and crates angles for others.

There are times it goes away from him and he is closed down; quite often he recovers the ball and sometimes loses it. The losing the ball is very infrequent.

Look at him closely and look at the mileage and effort and runs he puts in. Call him on the balls he loses and see how quiet the detractors become.

I would like someone to dig the stats out on him to get some reality on this amazing debate.

Jim Lloyd
177 Posted 29/09/2015 at 09:09:30
I think you’ve accurately summed up Rom’s contribution, Steven.

With the better service that I think is coming, he’ll score more goals. I’m glad we’ve got him and, as with all our young talented p[layers, I hope we keep him. If we do, we’ll be having a good, young, squad and it’s well on the way now.

Andrew Clare
178 Posted 29/09/2015 at 09:11:26
What a game. I, like a lot of people, was groaning at Rom’s first touch during the first half but what a performance in the second! When he scored and ran up to the centre spot and placed the ball down, I could see the belief, the belief that sparked the recovery.

We have got such a good squad now after what seemed a so-so transfer window. Funes Mori looks very accomplished, Galloway is going to be a fabulous player, Geri is tricky and skillful with a great delivery. Kone is looking better and better, developing a great partnership with Rom. Jags was like a rock. I could go on. Martinez looks like he’s got things sussed now. Absolutely delighted.

A great start to the season.

Graham Mockford
179 Posted 29/09/2015 at 09:16:42
Steven,

You are spot-on about his effort. For someone who was visibly breaking sweat in the first half, he is either working harder than many give him credit for or he needs to go and get his thyroid checked out.

I think the biggest weakness in his game is something he can get better at, which is his positioning and anticipation. He’s not someone who naturally seems to like playing on a defender’s shoulder and making those speculative runs that top strikers instinctively make.

But you ultimately judge centre-forwards on goals scored, at the moment he is a decent Premier League striker, 1 in 2. To be considered a very good one, that needs to be 2 in 3.

Chris James
180 Posted 29/09/2015 at 09:24:20
Obviously you see everything through results-tinted glasses, but it does feel that we have a squad that can genuinely compete at the moment with genuine options and back-up in all the key areas.

In Deulofeu and Barkley we have 2 young creative talents who look up for it this season (maybe not quite yet in the same game, but that’s why you probably need to play both). Then with Lennon, Mirallas, Gibson, Osman and Kone to come in/on who can also create plus Baines and Coleman providing overlaps down the flanks we should have enough options in the chance creative box.

Up front Lukaku, Kone and Naismith have all notched a few goals this season and all offer something different - i.e. raw power + finishing vs control + guile vs workrate + finish respectively - if we could somehow combine them we’d have the best striker in the world! As it is I think this is still an area we can improve in come January, but if Rom stays fit we should have enough to keep us in the hunt.

Meanwhile at the back we seem to genuinely have two banks of 4 that we can interchange with Galloway/Baines - Jags/Stones/Funes Mori/Galloway again - Coleman/Browning plus Garbutt and Oviedo also.

Then there’s McCarthy and Barry sat in front of the back 4 - with Besic and Cleverley to return. (I still fundamentally don’t think we need both DMs... but hey, if we keep winning I’m sure I’ll come round.)

Both Howard (who I do actually rate, seemingly a rare view on these pages) and Robles (who looked great in parts last season and needs gametime for confidence) are solid goalkeeping options, but I agree we could do with someone fresh here - shame we never went for Butland.

We’ve also shown character and togetherness this season, partly helped no doubt by the manager's or board’s decision to keep the group together and not sell any important players (a considerable achievement in itself) and seem to be building a winning, never-say-die spirit.

I think we’ll know a lot more about our realistic chances for the season after the next 3 games against genuine top 4 challengers: Liverpool, Man Utd and Arsenal. However, if we can manage to take 4-5 points from these, get a few of the walking wounded back and avoid too many injuries, then suddenly that CL ambition might not look so crazy and maybe we will all be able to say In Martinez We Trust again?

COYB!

Dave Abrahams
181 Posted 29/09/2015 at 09:29:16
First half was back to last season’s performances; second half was a lot better. Galloway was excellent, Funes Mori had a good game, Deulofeu starred and was another good performer.

Great comeback and Lukaku did what a lot of people on here have been asking him to do: attack the six-yard area.

I still haven’t made my mind up over Martinez, maybe he’s getting there, but first half had me doubting that. All-in-all, a satisfying night.

Jim Lloyd
182 Posted 29/09/2015 at 09:35:28
I’ve just looked again at the goals and what deadly passes young Gerry put in. Three gilt-edged opportunities he made for Ross and Rom and there’ll be more to come, the more they play together.

I don’t think Rom can always score the goals on his own; it’s a team effort and, to a large degree, a goalscorer needs chances to be made for him. It’s great to see the passes flowing and I just hope they continue to increase.

Ross Edwards
184 Posted 29/09/2015 at 10:12:58
Absolutely brilliant fightback and a massive win last night. The first 50 minutes or so was probably the most turgid, forgettable shite I’ve ever seen. From both sides. Absolutely awful first half.

When we went 2 down I thought we had no chance but the spirit, the fight and the belief in that squad was emphatically shown in that last half an hour.

After that performance by Deulofeu, which was simply magical with Beckhamesque crossing that any striker in world football would happily feast on, he has to start every game and there are quite frankly no excuses for RM not to.

It also showed that Kone is a great impact sub and I think that is how he and Naismith should be utilised in future in my opinion.

Galloway was absolutely first class and I tell you what, Baines faces a fight to regain his place, the potential and the talent we have in the squad is so exciting and the future going forward is an exciting one.

In the Derby next week, if we play like we did in those last 40 minutes, we will win. Carragher on MNF looked worried whenever it was mentioned and said that we’re favourites next week.

If we get to November still in the top 6 or 7, by New Year we’ll be well inside the top 4 because we have a run of 8 or 9 winnable fixtures on paper at least. I think we’re going to have a very good season and we’re definitely in the fight for 4th. If we get results against Arsenal and Man Utd in the next few weeks, we definitely will, especially with the fixtures coming up afterwards.

I’m really excited about this season and the next few years because there is so much potential in the squad.

Sam Hoare
185 Posted 29/09/2015 at 10:35:12
Huge result that keeps confidence and momentum up before two massive games at Goodison. 5th after a hard start to the season is excellent work and hopefully lays a solid platform to build upon.

Thought the back 4 looked fairly solid considering 3 first choice players are out and Funes Mori looked quietly assured despite his mistake for the first goal. (Although really it was Barry’s fault more than his and indeed had Lukaku made the run he was waiting for he would have got rid of the ball earlier...)

Barkley had a quieter game and Lukaku embodied his Goodison career so far, ineffective and dreary in large doses but ends up with a crucial brace and assist. Galloway looked solid and finally in Deulofeu we look to have someone who can really make something happen from nothing and laid on two goals and what should have been third for Barkley, though I’ve no idea how he managed to mess up the 4 vs 1 we had at the end!! I could have laid that one on myself.

All-in-all, an encouraging Monday night after a dreary weekend of sport for me. Let’s push on with a thumping derby win now to really show we mean business this season.

Eric Myles
186 Posted 29/09/2015 at 10:40:35
"Romophobe – a person who fail to spot a centre-forward who scores every other game."

Unfortunately Lukaku doesn't score in every other game, he's scored in 2 out of 7 PL games this season.

Jim Lloyd
187 Posted 29/09/2015 at 10:42:27
Sam, I think he was just knackered at the end and didn’t have the strength to do what he intended to.

And I wish Nev would tell Tim the benefits of making the 6-yard box your own... no matter who’s in the way!

Graham Mockford
188 Posted 29/09/2015 at 10:50:19
Eric (#170),

That’s best described as obtuse. I’m describing his 90 games at Everton and his 42 goals.

I mean based on last night he scores two every game.

Colin Glassar
189 Posted 29/09/2015 at 10:53:56
Lukaku (like Mirallas) is like Marmite to some fans. Some (of us) love him' others hate him. It’s a fact of life that we will never agree on him.
Brian Hill
190 Posted 29/09/2015 at 11:00:49
Howard is a serious liability. His cowardice for their first goal was embarrassing. It was an easy gather for any keeper prepared to dive at the feet of an opposing striker. Howard never does this and always goes feet first. The second goal, from a goalkeeping perspective, was disgraceful, but expected from Howard as it has happened many times.

Howard supporters, please do not excuse his culpability for the first goal by naming Funes Mori and Barry. Howard is responsible for his own actions and performance – his ridiculous attempt at catching their last minute corner would have been laughable in the Sunday league.

Eric Myles
191 Posted 29/09/2015 at 11:17:18
Graham (#172), it’s not obtuse, it’s a fact.

What’s obtuse is not knowing the difference between an average goalscoring statistic and an actual goalscoring statistic when you state "a centre-forward who scores every other game".

As of last night Rom has scored in 2 out of 7 which admittedly is better than the previous 1 out of 6, but still not every other game.

Alan Bodell
192 Posted 29/09/2015 at 11:37:22
It’s been said that Lukaku is ’As Good As He Wants To Be ’ and I think last night was pretty much that. He seems to get up for some games and goes very missing in others but the world will be focusing on Goodison on Sunday so we should have him up for this one.

Jimmy Mac: thanks for trying, lad, but we are proud of not cheating our way to results like so many other teams.

Gary Carter
194 Posted 29/09/2015 at 11:47:04
I like Deulofeu, he looks like a potentially quality player and yes, he got two good assists. But raving about him as MotM? He was almost anonymous in the first half, just standing out on the touch line not really getting too involved.
Gavin Johnson
195 Posted 29/09/2015 at 11:54:07
Eric (#175),

What striker in the world scores every other game consistently? When people refer to a striker who scores every other game, do you honestly think they mean strikers who score 1 goal in every other game or do they mean the goal average?!

I think most people know it’s not a given that a striker scores every other game and that term refers to their overall record. I think you are using statistics to suit a flimsy argument there, mate.

Paul Foster
196 Posted 29/09/2015 at 11:58:38
Some odd comments on Lukaku on here. Here's his record since joining Everton, for those who have forgotten:

Played: 90
Scored: 42

And he has just turned 22.

Thomas Surgenor
197 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:02:30
Eric (#175), that’s rather pedantic.

I (and many others) read the stat as "averages 1 in 2".

I know it’s not what he said but let’s have common sense prevail here.

Graham Mockford
198 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:04:42
Eric

Don't you just love 'facts'.

Using your logic and with me selecting my sample size ( 1 game, last night)

Gerry gets two assists every game
Kone gets booked every game
When we play on a Monday night and wear blue shorts we always win.

I'm sure you knew what I meant but top marks for your pedantry.

Graham Mockford
199 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:07:17
Brian Hill (#174),

The only embarrassing thing I’m seeing is your completely over-the-top post.

’Cowardice’... get a grip.

Colin Williams
200 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:09:26
Great result... not performance. MotM: Funes Mori was superb! Galloway not far behind him. Again, Howard was piss-poor... Said many times before: we won’t win feck all with this guy between the sticks... If Robles had performed like that when playing, you would want him out! (Funny how many supporters " ignore" certain players' consistent poor performances.)

Again poor performances from many of the players. Thank feck Deulofeu can cross the ball into good areas because other than that... He worked hard but his distribution was very poor... The sad thing is... He wasn’t on his own, senior players should do better; Jags, Macca; Barks, and Naismith.

As for Lukaku... Thank fuck he scored them goals; as for general play within the game, he was invisible again!

We will need a massive improvement on Sunday from most of the players to get a positive result! I just hope Funes Mori keeps his place... I really think this guy could make a massive difference on the day. He’s perfect for this type of game.

Peter Roberts
201 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:11:56
Oh my word... will people please stop with the 1 in 2 games nonsense. Are we forever going to allow him to hide behind this?

There is a massive issue that so many people are missing and that is he is a very very volatile player, he either plays great or has no interest. His great games he often gets a brace then does nothing for 3-4 games; disagree all you want, it's a fact.

It can also be said he goes missing in bigger games – look at who he scores against... and who he doesn’t score against.

Can we please just accept that he has the extremely frustrating tendency to have an Emmanuel Adubayor mentality.

If he approached every game like he had pride in the shirt, I would love him despite his awful touch. He doesn't... and he is doing himself and the fans a disservice.

Colin Williams
202 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:16:47
Brian (#174) "spot-on".... I agree with all you said.
Peter Gorman
203 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:26:14
Joseph 144, it was a needless yellow card, we'll see where and when a future ban effects us.

Couldn't he just have picked up some Guylian chocolates on the way home?

James Newcombe
204 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:27:07
Great comeback by the lads! PLEASE let us chin both Liverpool and Man Utd.
Gavin Johnson
205 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:28:47
Peter #182 Yes, I do disagree. Wayne Rooney scored his first league goal since May on Saturday, yet he's scored 171 in 346 games. Would question his goal scoring record just because he doesn't score every other week?!

I think you completely miss that Rom does make runs and when he does look anonymous in games it's because the team have reverted back to the slow passing game, and are not playing to his strengths. You should learn to appreciate him, Peter. You'll miss him when he's gone.

Paul Withe
206 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:36:10
Peter Roberts (#182),

He has scored against all the big clubs bar Chelsea and Manchester United, and against the latter he played very well in both Goodison games, plus he scored big goals in the Europa League. So not sure the "he goes missing in the bigger games" line works.

I admit he can look lazy and disinterested at times, but if he scores 1 in 2 and in some games he looks lazy, I will take that thank you very much.

Graham Mockford
207 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:40:29
Peter (#127),

He has scored a single goal 27 times and more than once on 7 occasions. Just another example of your selective memory.

What leads you to believe he is a ’very very volatile ’ player?
Six yellow cards in 90 games doesn’t suggest that to me. You compare him to Adebayor, how has he portrayed any characteristics of that waste of space? Every time I see him speak he strikes me as fairly humble. Martinez speaks glowingly about his passion for the game and his determination to improve.

And what does ’pride in the shirt’ actually really mean? It’s just one of those meaningless throwaway cliches.

You obviously dislike the player but you do it by way of character assassination as if any poor performance is somehow an attitude flaw. I don’t see that, I see a player who is inconsistent but also one who still be wanted by most PL sides.

Brent Stephens
208 Posted 29/09/2015 at 12:44:24
Peter #127 - do you want to see Rom dropped? I guess not.
Phil Walling
212 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:03:37
As a long-time critic of our manager, I'm really enjoying his team's performances at present and only hope they will continue when I return home from Cyprus in November!

What has surprised me no end is Roberto's willingness to vary his tactics and formations as well as make early subs as with last night. I really did think he was so addicted to his 'passing philosophy' that he was happy to take a loss in the cause.

Has the man changed or has he been leant on? But whatever, he's really got the lads performing!

Andrew Keatley
213 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:23:02
I have been one of Lukaku’s detractors, including on the live forum last night, and part of that is down to frustration. He has everything in his locker; pace, strength, size, shooting from distance, heading – even his touch and vision are at times rather brilliant. But he often goes missing in games, doesn’t anticipate well, and spends half his time pointing where he wants the ball rather than making a run off the ball to help the team.

Last night was really interesting, because he was hugely frustrating for the first hour or so, and then took responsibility to force us back into the game. He has that power. He can terrorise defences – especially when other attacking players like Deulofeu are showing the form of last night. And when Lukaku is on song he really is terrific. I just get frustrated that he seems to play at those extremes somewhat at random.

I hope that Lukaku can add that consistency to his game, as we’ll be really going places if he can. And with Liverpool on Sunday – aided by the feelgood factor in the squad after coming back from 2-0 down to win last night – would be a good place for Lukaku to put back-to-back match-winning performances together.

Erik Dols
214 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:25:38
It's funny to read certain TW posters after games like this. Continental view: I just read two articles of football sites overseas, they're both lyrical about Lukaku. The reactions under the article are all of the sense that Chelsea was crazy to sell Lukaku even for the fee involved. On the continent they really see him as developing into one of the best strikers in the world.
Jim Lloyd
215 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:27:37
As a young player of only 22, I think he is still an apprentice yet. In three or 4 more years, if we can keep him, he’ll be as good as anyone in this league. Don’t forget, he’s only 22 and he shows such a hunger to improve, that I just can’t buy the twaddle that he’s lazy.

Also, as a young man of 22, he is an eloquent speaker (in lord knows how many languages) and I’ve only ever heard him speak in respectful tones about anyone he has mentioned. He’s one of the lads who I think, if we can keep him, who will be part of the springboard that just might bring us into the top 6, top four in a season or two.

For 22-year-olds, Rom, Ross, John Stones and the even younger lads, are doing us proud.

Joe Foster
216 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:30:21
What was it Tim Vickery said about Funes Mori?
Jim Lloyd
217 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:32:36
You can’t question Vickery, Joe. Don’t you know he’s an "Expert" and does work for the BBC...
James Stewart
218 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:33:14
Lukaku does not have great technique and it is often glaringly obvious but his best attributes can still make him some player. We just need to play more to his strengths. He is not a back-to-goal striker and thrives on crosses and balls in behind.

Last night was the first time I have seen one of our players consistently putting a cross in every chance he could. No surprise to see Lukaku thriving on that kind of service. If we keep supplying him that kind of service he will score for fun.

Dave Pritchard
219 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:36:59
Some statistics (or lies or damn lies) that may be of interest is that Rom is at No 3 in the Opta list of Premier League players of the season so far.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34386986

Joe Foster
220 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:37:38
Exactly, Jim, the so called "South American expert".
Mark Daley
221 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:42:48
I just tried jotting down the team for Sunday: not an easy task!

Lukaku is a curate's egg traditional centre forward - he does his job and/but he is frustrating. That means Kone too, because they work well together. Deulofeu makes things happen whenever he's on the ball so he has to start.

That means I don't have a place for Naismith even though I love him for his total effort and guts and spirit, and in a derby game you want that. I think I have to start him on the bench and after an hour we bring him on to fire us up if we need that; and a bit later if we don't.

Barry and McCarthy are fixtures, and then Jags, Stones, who I assume will be fit, Galloway deserves a start, Coleman if fit.

That leaves Lennon, Gibson, Funes Mori with Naismith on the bench; which means no place for Browning.

I hope my prayers for Sunday are not just going to St Jude for once. We really could do this: they don't have Gerrard any more to fire them up for the derby; and they do have Mignolet; and Brenda...

Tony J Williams
222 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:51:26
I am blaming Howard for the first goal, he rolled it out instead of punting it down the middle.

In fact if Barkley had've scored that easy chance then they wouldn’t have had the chance to score.

Blaming Mori for the first is just ridiculous, we had the ball back in our possession, Barry wasn’t under pressure so the lads screw up had gone unpunished. A quick brainfart by Barry cost us the first.

The second... Eugene had it right, I just keep on preying to the Almighty that Howard realises that he is built like a tank and the ref will protect him. Go through everyone, even your own defender. Star jumps on the line work every 1 in about 100, and it’s usually a fluke that 1 time.

James Hughes
223 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:57:34
When Kone first played for us, he looked out of his depth and useless. This season is obviously him playing like he should. Yes, we do seem to deride our players even in victory.

I will claim bragging rights for being on the live forum saying we will win when the rest was doom and gloom. Great fightback from the lads and if we could learn to defend set pieces my blood pressure would be better. Roll on Sunday and maybe I will get some beta blockers. :)

Eric Myles
224 Posted 29/09/2015 at 13:57:53
Gavin (#177), Graham seems to think strikers score 1 in every 2 games, not me.

Thomas (#179), you’re right it’s not what he said, but how is anyone supposed to know whether he’s saying what he means, or guess at what he thinks he’s saying?

Graham (#180), that’s not a logical conclusion at all, you’re just being silly now.

Eric Myles
226 Posted 29/09/2015 at 14:02:47
Erik (#192), the commentators on the match remarked how it was obvious why Chelsea sold Lukaku, because he can’t control a ball and is often lazy in a game.

Didn’t his former coach just last week say that his faults get overlooked because he scores goals?

Steve Brown
227 Posted 29/09/2015 at 14:18:32
Eric, Lukaku averages a goal every two games rather than scores a goal every two games. So what? His average scoring record remains world class even if he quality of his play doesn’t match it yet.

Sure his faults get over-looked because he scores goals. He has been played from a young age because he is prolific. Should we therefore criticise him for this or thank our lucky stars that we have him?

The Premier League is full of forwards whose link up is play better than Rom’s who do not score as frequently as him. Do you want us to sign them instead? Granted that has been the Everton norm since Lineker... to sign players who never score or to coach the goals out of those who do.

Simon Hermansen
229 Posted 29/09/2015 at 14:20:28
I think the one worry for me is how, before WBA scored, we seemed to be ambling to another 0-0 as per our last two aways. It's a concern that we seem to be set up to be so reactive at the moment (waiting to go a goal down before showing our considerable attacking quality) instead of going at it from the start. If Barry hadn’t made that mistake, would we have ever come out of our shell?

Other than that, Geri and Galloway stood out for me and Kone and Gibson certainly gave us something different when they came on that helped us open the game up.

Steve Brown
230 Posted 29/09/2015 at 14:22:30
Moyes in particular made an art form out of this, which usually resulted in the "forward" flogging their guts out down the wing to cross to Cahill or Fellaini. Then being sold for a big fat loss.
Duncan McDine
231 Posted 29/09/2015 at 14:26:06
Got home about 1-ish last night, and still haven’t seen the highlights, but I thought Lukaku put in a decent performance even before the goals and assist. Our players know his hold-up play is the weakest part of his game, but still insist on drilling it into his feet when he has 2 or 3 defenders up his arse. Play to his strengths and he’s always good for a goal.

Deulofeu was excellent throughout, as were Jags, Galloway, Barry and Maccca (apart from his stupid dive).

My mate Kev insists that I need to give Funes Mori time to adjust, but I don’t like him as a player. Hope I’m proved wrong.

Ray Robinson
232 Posted 29/09/2015 at 14:50:03
Great fightback and result which camouflages a distinctly patchy overall performance – but who cares right now?

I don’t think anyone has mentioned Jags yet. His consistency this season is brilliant and though he doesn’t really have a case for MotM, he wasn’t far behind anyone. Lukaku had his moments in the second half, as did Deulofeu but Galloway and Jags were consistent throughout.

I thought Funes Mori had a more than decent game too which makes it all the more surprising that we still managed to ship two very dodgy goals. When everyone plays well in two halves, we will have another performance a la Southampton and Chelsea.

Will someone please write a piece reminiscing about that famous 3-0 home win over Liverpool? After all, the recent Wimbledon article certainly inspired the 3-2 comeback last night.

Graham Mockford
233 Posted 29/09/2015 at 15:10:00
Eric (#215),

It’s like being back in sixth form debating society. You know what I meant, if you wish to get into discussions on semantics you best wasting your time with someone else.

Paul Cherrington
234 Posted 29/09/2015 at 15:17:27
Great comeback and win from the boys – really pleased. They showed the mental strength and desire (and skill) to do that. Well done to them overall.

However... I don’t think we can gloss over the poor first half or the fact we went 2-0 down against an average team just because we won. Pointing that out doesn’t make you miserable, it just means you can see what happened in the whole game not just when we could be arsed to turn it on.
Eric Myles
235 Posted 29/09/2015 at 15:21:09
Graham (#222), I can only assume you meant what you said, you are surely intelligent enough to phrase what you meant to say correctly if you were in a 6th form debating society.
Brent Stephens
236 Posted 29/09/2015 at 15:38:17
Eric (#177)

"Unfortunately Lukaku doesn’t score in every other game, he’s scored in 2 out of 7 PL games this season."

Feck me! We’re now judging people over only 7 games are we? Discounting all else they’ve done. Somewhat arbitrary it seems to take the last 7 games. Forget previous seasons. Strewth.

Christy Ring
237 Posted 29/09/2015 at 15:43:46
Wasn’t it great to see us finish so strongly. Lukaku loves a quick ball, and with Kone beside him (not on the wing) he’s a different player.

The one fault I have is Howard, he should be coming for crosses, the 2nd goal was a prime example. He’s also too fond of rolling the ball out to a defender, instead of kicking it, that’s how we conceded the opening goal. How many times has his short kick-outs put us under pressure?.

Graham Mockford
238 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:01:32
Christy,

I think it is fair enough to criticise Tim for the second goal, he did get blocked but he needed to be stronger and more decisive.However, he will be under instruction to roll the ball out.

What was apparent is how vital JS is to making this work because of his composure and footballing ability. Funes Mori as well as he did for a Premier League debut, is no John Stones... mind you, that’s a pretty high benchmark.

Gary Mortimer
239 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:25:17
Brent @223. Rom Lukaku, Wayne Rooney, Harry Kane, Diego Costa, Olivier Giroud. Just some names who are being "judged" after 7 games. It goes with the territory. It seems some have already judged Funes Mori – after a game and a bit in the League.

I think most of Lukaku’s detractors (myself included) get frustrated when we know what he can do, but he appears to lack that killer instinct, belief and desire to get in good positions in order to do it more often.

Mind you, if he did do it more often, no doubt the media would be flogging him to the next Sky 4 club before you could say "That Romelu Lukaku looks a bit good".

Duncan McDine
240 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:26:21
Christy, I agree that Howard doesn’t do enough to dominate his 6-yard box, but the first goal last night was 80% Funes Mori’s fault and 20% Barry's fault.
Jim Lloyd
241 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:34:29
You’re right Joe. Expert at what I wonder? Isn’t the definition of expert that they get to know more and more about less and less, until they end up knowing everything about nothing! As for commentators giving their opinion of Rom, well... they’re experts.
Mike Powell
242 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:39:09
Great comeback. I thought we were awful in first half but much better when Roberto made the subs.

Barkley and Barry were joint MotM for me. Gibbo played well when he came on, Galloway had another good game, I thought Deulofeu was dreadful in first half, kept losing or giving the ball away; he improved in the second half three great crosses from him.

Rom had one of his better games; he plays much better when Kone is along side him.

I hope Stones and Coleman are fit for the RS game. Browning still has a lot to learn; he got caught out a few times. But I'm very pleased with our start to the season.
Jamie Barlow
243 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:41:23
Funes Mori messed up for the first goal last night but Barry had a chance to put it right and didn't. The fault is then down to Barry.

In no way whatsoever was Howard to blame. He was however at fault for their second. Terrible goalkeeping. There's no way someone should be getting a free header from 2 yards out.

Rom is a tricky one. I can see why some get riled by him.

Peter Gorman
244 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:44:40
Barkley played a lovely ball in the second half to Lukaku (probably the only one he managed to get right) and Rom’s heavy touch totally let him down. If he worked on this, he would be so lethal.

So I agree with Gary, I like the lad, I want him to do well, but he needs to work on his weaknesses like a professional should.

Andrew Clare
245 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:45:11
The goal was blatantly Barry’s fault. All he had to do was pass to an Everton player or hoof it up the pitch.

I think you will find that Funes Mori is a top class player. You don’t play for Argentina if you are not of the highest standard.

Brin Williams
246 Posted 29/09/2015 at 16:46:10
Duncan McDine (#227)

’My mate Kev insists that I need to give Funes Mori time to adjust, but I don’t like him as a player’

Dear Duncan, I think your mate has more common sense than you give him credit for.

As for Duncan McDine... I don’t like that as a name!

What exactly ’don’t you like’ about Funes Mori (now there’s a proper name) ’as a player’.

Mike Allison
247 Posted 29/09/2015 at 17:13:30
Don't be daft Duncan. The first goal was 90% Barry's fault, with the rest shared between Funes Mori for getting tackled, and Galloway, Naismith and Lukaku for not offering him an option.

I'm impressed with him. I have to admit I was pretty underwhelmed at the signing, and positively angry about the price tag, but he's got what it takes and will only get better as he plays more.

Tony J Williams
248 Posted 29/09/2015 at 17:13:37
80%? How?

His mistake led to us regaining possession and the fuckwit Barry passes it straight to a West Brom player.

You will have to explain as to how a player who screwed up but the team regained possession is more at fault for a fuckwit passing it straight to an opposing player just outside our box?

Jim Lloyd
249 Posted 29/09/2015 at 17:15:59
I’m sure Rom is working on his weaknesses. He wants to do well, he wants to become a better all round player. He knows, he’s not the finished article, neither is Ross, nor Gerry, John Stones isn’t nor Brendan Galloway or Tyias Browning. There’s more young lads on the verge of breaking into the team as well; and they’ll need time to develop

We’ve got an exiting group of young players, definitely with a good chance of becoming top Premier League players.

Frustrating it might be at times (well, it certainly is, at times!) but we’re seeing young skillful players developing their games, while playing against some of the worlds best imports and most of the best British footballers.

So, for me I’d much rather have the lads we’ve got and the skills their developing than not... even when it gets frustrating. I look at Ross Barkley and think he can become a great player. But we all know there’s areas of his game that need improving.If he doesn’t improve them, he will be a good player but not a great one.

That same situation goes for all the lads and we are in the possibly great position of seeing them developing into top class players... for Everton.

Brent Stephens
250 Posted 29/09/2015 at 17:17:25
Gary #227 - yes, I think many of us get frustrated at Rom at times. But as long as he keeps up his (career!) average, I'll be happy.
David McKitt
251 Posted 29/09/2015 at 17:30:33
After watching Rom last night, this article, that was linked to from this site a few weeks, ago came to mind:

Link

David Chait
252 Posted 29/09/2015 at 17:39:34
Not getting on Barkley's back but I though last night was his worst performance of the season. He is beginning to have a habit of slowing down considerably and almost prancing along with the ball, apparently looking for something or someone, but it all happens in slow motion and he looks completely undecided.

Wonder how Allison’s table looks?

Richard Lyons
253 Posted 29/09/2015 at 18:06:56
Now that performance, dare I say it, reminded me of our Championship-winning teams: in the whole not that brilliant, but still being able to go up the necessary gear to get the points.

And I think that Gibson could be the key – he adds that touch of class, an extra dimension that sets us apart from teams like WBA, Palace and the RS.

So if Gibson stays fit, we get into the CL. That’s my formula anyway.

James Marshall
254 Posted 29/09/2015 at 18:33:08
I missed the game as it was on at 2am here and I had to go to work, but the Russian highlights I saw this morning before work (not knowing the score) were fucking magic.

What a brilliant way to win a football match, and just before the home-derby. Still quite a few injuries over and Mordor too and we should have our defence back so I hope we give 'em hell this weekend.

Best chance in a long while to give them a good hiding.

Marvellous stuff.

Jim Hardin
255 Posted 29/09/2015 at 18:38:36
To those criticizing Howard for the second goal, was he marking the scorer? Thought that would be a field player doing that. Also, those people wanting him to have attacked the cross do you even know how that is done? The GK has to go pretty much straight out. If you turn or slide along the line you can't get out to do that.

Apologies to Gavin and others whose criticism will be forthcoming but Howard was blocked from going straight out by a West Brom player who was physically huge. Howard's teammate wasn't goal side to help or behind the player to allow Howard to use him as a pick to get beyond so he was an additional impediment. Given that, Howard has to slide along the line. I am sure he was just as surprised as us that a player as large as Dawson could go unnoticed and unmarked.

Andrew Clare
256 Posted 29/09/2015 at 18:39:19
Kone’s goal was our 1,000th top flight goal in September. We are the first club to reach that milestone.
Dave Abrahams
257 Posted 29/09/2015 at 18:48:23

Jim, now explain that mis-punch in the final minute, sums up Tim exactly, hilarious, but not if they had scored off it.

Graham Mockford
258 Posted 29/09/2015 at 18:51:51
Jim

Your post raises an interesting point. Only on occasions is a single player at fault. Take the Besic first touch in a blue shirt against Chelsea last year for instance.

More often a combination of decisions or lack of action contribute. Both goals last night were a case in point.

For the first, Funes Mori ran the ball into trouble, Barry misplaced a pass, Browning got caught by a run from outside.

For the second, Barkley lost his man, Jagielka got turned around so didn’t know where the ball was, and Howard allowed himself to be blocked off.

In all these cases, the players could have done something different which may have prevented the goal.

It seems a common trait amongst many on here is they want a single player to point the finger at. We end up with the arguments witnessed on this thread. In reality all the players were culpable to some degree.

Mind you there are some crackers. Howard was responsible for the first by rolling the ball out, and for not leaping at the feet of the oncoming striker and making ’an easy save’.

Gavin Johnson
260 Posted 29/09/2015 at 18:55:26
There’s no criticism of Howards' performance from me last night, Jim.

We all know Howard's strengths and weaknesses. He’ll make a mistake from time to time, usually from not commanding his area, but on the whole I’ve been impressed with him this season.

Duncan McDine
261 Posted 29/09/2015 at 19:31:56
Brin, sorry if my name offends you... I'll have a quiet word with my ancestors to put them straight.

I'm just offering my opinion that after watching him live twice in the space of a week I don't feel confident in him. I felt the same way when I first watched Robles in goal.

As I said, I truely hope I'm wrong about him... This league can be tough to adjust to so I'll happily lay off the judgement until he gets a few more games under his belt.

I'm happy that I'm in the minority regarding the lad's potential, so fingers crossed he won't be the liability I fear.

Brin Williams
262 Posted 29/09/2015 at 20:05:52
Duncan 248 – Nothing personal, mate... just your silly off-the-cuff remark got my goat – ’I don’t like him as a player’ – with no explanation as to why you don’t like him as a player.

Anyway there you go – ’nuff said’.

By the way I think McDine took some imagination ‐ whoever came up with that one deserves a .......??

Duncan McDine
263 Posted 29/09/2015 at 20:09:31
No worries, Brin. Thankfully your silly comment was taken in good humour this end!
Matthew Williams
264 Posted 29/09/2015 at 20:13:19
If we continue with two holding midfielders in future, what about Cleverley & Baines?
Steven Jones
265 Posted 29/09/2015 at 22:00:54
Richard Lyons (#241) – Great post!

I agree with Gibson – best technical control, look and pass forward between the lines we have. RM mentioned it in his interview. McCarthy is average at distribution and not enough vision.

Gibson reminds me of Bracewell when he is technically precise with his control, vision and distribution. With him, Baines and Coleman and Stones on the passing and creativity of the team will leap forward.

When that happens, it will give Barkley, Geri and Rom the space and movement that pulls the opposition apart and wears them down.The 80s Championship teams did that and created opportunities for the forward and others through manipulating the opposition midfield and defence.

Tony Abrahams
266 Posted 29/09/2015 at 22:10:43
I thought it was the young Spaniard on the wing who added the real touch of class, Steven?
Paul Nicholls
267 Posted 29/09/2015 at 00:08:08
Re. Brent #238, has anyone got Lukaku’s career stats to hand? I thought I saw on SSN before yesterday’s game that he had scored 12 in 42 PL games. Which is a goal every 3.5 games, slightly improved by yesterday’s brace.

His numbers might look a bit better with League Cup and Europa League goals (against some flaky defending) bolted on, but I would hope we are all agreed that his run-rate in bread-and-butter matches must improve.

Here’s hoping yesterday is a sign of that, but I for one won’t be surprised if he continues to blow hot and cold depending on the quality of the opposition.

Jim Hardin
268 Posted 30/09/2015 at 02:49:44
Dave no explanation, but you did see how it froze the West Brom players in the area right? Sometimes coming out and not getting it is just as good as actually getting a fist to it.
David Donnellan
269 Posted 30/09/2015 at 07:23:52
Thomas (#159),

That didn’t hinder Messi.

Brian Hill
270 Posted 30/09/2015 at 07:27:42
Graham, watch it again. Howard starts to come out, then stops. He did it at Swansea in the passage that led to Mirallas sending off.

We hear a lot about "putting your body on the line." Howard puts nothing on the line, he will leave Everton as a multi-millionaire having contributed next to nothing to the furtherance of our club. I repeat, he is a coward.

James Marshall
271 Posted 30/09/2015 at 07:52:19
Brian@252

I have to disagree and defend Tim Howard - he's been a great keeper for us over the years, very consistent.

His stats this season: shots on target 33, saves 26. Only Petr Cech has saved more (27 from 34) so I fail to see any logical reasoning for your post.

Howard is not the best on crosses but he's also not the worst. He's a very good keeper and his record over a long period holds up against the best in the division so I don't think you can call him a coward (maybe that was a typo and you meant he's a Howard?).

Goalkeepers make mistakes the same as any other player on the pitch, and they're massively magnified for obvious reasons, so to lay into Tim Howard like that seems way off the mark to me.

People have critisised him over the past two years, but forget that there are so many times when he does good things like making crucial saves and getting his hands on a cross which seem to go unnoticed.

It's very easy to attack goalkeepers when they make errors, but be careful what you wish for when it comes to longevity and consistency.

Graham Mockford
272 Posted 30/09/2015 at 08:50:49
Brian,

What I think is pretty disgraceful is Evertonians calling their own players 'cowards', especially one who has played nearly 400 games for our club.

You can have a view on his abilities as a keeper, the consensus is probably a decent keeper who is not quite top class. But your invective is just nonsense.

I have looked at the goal, he wouldn't have got there first by diving for the ball, so he did what good keepers do and stayed on his feet and tried to make himself as big as possible. The second goal he should have done better. But through your hate filled view of him I don't expect you to see this.

You even manage to implicate him in the Mirallas sending off, I'm mean really?

Chris Gould
273 Posted 30/09/2015 at 09:12:15
Calling Howard a coward sounds like a playground childish taunt.

"Howard is a coward, Howard is a coward... and he still wears a nappy!"

He doesn’t strike me as a coward. In fact I’d go as far to say that he’s completely the opposite. To make it as a Premier League and International goalkeeper you have need to have courage. You have to be able to stand there as the last line of defence and deal with the pressure that comes with that. The pressure of being watched by 40,000 in the stadium and millions on TV.

You have to deal with the criticism and fact that every mistake is highlighted on Match of the Day. You then put it behind you and put in a commanding performance in the very next game. The fact that Tim speaks to the media regularly even though he suffers with Tourette's also suggests a level of bravery. It must have been difficult dealing with Tourette's as a kid, and it takes a certain kind of person to not let such a neurological syndrome hold them back. To go on to achieve what he has is pretty courageous, and I’m sure he’s a poster boy for all young children who suffer with the syndrome.

He is a very good goalkeeper who has been very consistent for many seasons. I think he has upped his level from last season and any criticism of him seems harsh. He wasn’t to blame for either of the goals against West Brom, not in the slightest.

Many on here were hoping we’d be in for Ospina in the summer!! Did you watch his performance last night?!!

Maybe Tim could improve in certain areas, but he is no coward.

Ray Roche
274 Posted 30/09/2015 at 09:25:25
Prior to this season, only Neville Southall and Gordon West have kept more clean sheets for Everton. Coward? Don’t think so.

Like a lot of players over the years (Osman,Hibbert etc.) Howard is a whipping boy for some fans who forget his good games and appear when they decide he’s slipped up. I mean, all these fantastic goalkeeping experts we have on TW! Why aren’t they sorting out Arsenal’s keeper problems....?

John Crawley
275 Posted 30/09/2015 at 09:28:16
I wouldn’t call Howard a coward but Brian’s points about Howard are fundamentally correct. To me the first priority last summer should have been a goalkeeper.

I think this comment from Brian Clough is on the money: "Shilton was the deciding factor. I’d have paid almost any price. A team with an OK goalkeeper is always looking over its shoulder. At the back of its mind, it’s thinking 'it doesn’t matter what we do – the fella between the posts might make a mistake’. With Shilton in goal, it gave everyone else more confidence. It spread throughout the side. We were full of ourselves."

Howard is an OK goalkeeper.

Ray Roche
276 Posted 30/09/2015 at 09:36:22
Who should we have bought John. That we could afford? Just interested, not looking for an argument.
Paul Cherrington
277 Posted 30/09/2015 at 09:36:37
It is interesting that a few peopel have noted the impact Gibson had and what extra he offers us as a player when he's on the pitch.

With his injury record, you would think that we would have made signing a younger, fitter replacement in the same mould a priority... but, to be fair, we have been saying the same for a good few years now.

John Crawley
278 Posted 30/09/2015 at 09:48:18
Hi Ray, I only watch Everton so I’m in no position to give you an answer on who we should have signed. We spent in the region of £18 million and agreed a fee for Yarmalenko so it would appear we had over £20 million to spend.

Ultimately it’s a question of priorities. I happen to agree with Clough: you strengthen the spine of the team and that starts with the goalkeeper. Not many teams win the league without a top class goalkeeper.

Brent Stephens
279 Posted 30/09/2015 at 10:10:25
Paul #250. Rom I think has 46 goals in 89 EPL appearances.
Colin Glassar
280 Posted 30/09/2015 at 10:15:07
Is Howard the new Ossie? There are some Everton fans who seem to feel the need to always have one particular player they can vent their frustrations at.

In the recent past it’s been Ossie, Hibbo and Barkley; is it Howard now? Is he the latest whipping boy?

I don’t get this obsession with picking out certain players (even when the team is doing well) and forensically examining every mistake made. Human beings make mistakes. Top athletes make mistakes. I’m not a big Tim Howard fan but he’s not as bad as he’s made out to be.

Enjoy the result and let’s get ready for the RS game which could be the catalyst for a really good season.

Ray Roche
281 Posted 30/09/2015 at 10:36:19
John, I agree, every great team has a good spine of top players (Southall, Ratcliffe, Reid, Sharp etc), but as for current goalkeepers, I WAS impressed with Vorm at Swansea when I first saw him but now he can’t get in Spurs' team.

Also, Marshall at Cardiff seemed to tick all the boxes and at 30 he’s the right age but no-one came in for him and he’s still there. Difficult when all you see is the slot on MotD to form a real opinion.

Trevor Peers
282 Posted 30/09/2015 at 12:25:20
I’d love to see some of these guys who call Howard a coward say that to his face. Then we’d see who the real coward was.

For me, he’s been a great keeper certainly in the top 4 I’ve seen at GP and that’s going back over 40 years.

No doubt he will be replaced in the next few years, finding a suitable replacement won’t be easy.

Tony J Williams
283 Posted 30/09/2015 at 12:29:12
Colin, he’s not the new Ossie, is the same old Howard that we all know his limitations.

What is frustrating is that these limitations could easily be countered if he just decided to leave his line every now and again.

Brian 252 "Howard puts nothing on the line", I disagree. That’s his biggest problem: he puts everything on the line... the goal line — and doesn’t fucking move.

Chris Leyland
284 Posted 30/09/2015 at 12:38:56
Anyone who wants to see Lukaku's career stats:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romelu_Lukaku#Career_statistics

Tony J Williams
285 Posted 30/09/2015 at 12:45:01
So that hand-balled goal was his 100th top flight goal?
Graham Mockford
286 Posted 30/09/2015 at 12:59:05
Tony...

Now you are just being mischievous.

John Crawley
287 Posted 30/09/2015 at 13:42:28
Ray I agree about Vorm but it’s most probably down to the fact that he has Lloris in front of him. It’s almost impossible to judge goalkeepers until you have seen them play live over a number of games. In terms of the best goalkeepers to visit Goodison then in recent times that would be Lloris and Marshall.

The two quality goalkeepers that I have seen play for Everton have been Southall (by some distance) and Martyn. Howard is the best of the rest but I still think he is only an OK goalkeeper.

Colin Malone
288 Posted 30/09/2015 at 14:39:06
Gerry. Gerry. Gerry. Gerry. Gerry. Gerry. Gerry.

Might catch on at the ground...

Dave Abrahams
289 Posted 30/09/2015 at 16:49:48
Jim (#252), yeh, made me laugh at least, that’s a new trick to teach the young players you coach, make them pull faces at their opponents as they come out as well!!!
Ray Roche
290 Posted 30/09/2015 at 17:28:45
John, Lloris is a fine keeper, as you say, and only Southall, West, and Martyn surpass Howard of the keepers I've seen since 1959. Howard is a street ahead of the likes of Mignolet, Begovic, Ospina and Guzan. etc.
Jim Hardin
291 Posted 30/09/2015 at 17:46:17
Dave, instead of faces, I tried to have them grow long beards but the boys are too young and the girls objected!
Dave Abrahams
292 Posted 30/09/2015 at 17:51:14
Jim, anything that works will do!!

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