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Liverpool vs Everton
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Will Romelu Lukaku start with the FA Cup semi-final four days away?
“It's the hope that kills you,” as the saying goes but what if you've lost all hope already? It's a rhetorical question that is apt for the collective Evertonian mind on the eve of this season's edition of the Anfield derby. Because, while the all-Merseyside clash has all too often been an exercise in misery for Evertonians since the turn of the century, who can remember a fixture between Liverpool and Everton that was approached with such a mixture of dread, apathy and resignation as this week's has been by Blues fans?
That feeling of numb fatalism isn't being felt universally but it's pervasive enough to be almost tangible as Everton prepare for two fixtures that will be perhaps not quite defining — what has already gone before in the Premier League has already defined quite starkly the continued regression under Roberto Martinez — so much as they will be either damning or up-lifting.
Given the unpredictable nature of local derbies, where the proverbial form book is supposed to go out the window as local pride kicks in, it seems unfathomable that Everton haven't won on Liverpool's turf for almost 17 years. Just three derby wins since 2000. Zero victories at Anfield since the “Kevin Campbell derby”. That bitterly disappointing FA Cup semi-final in 2012…
It's a record that is partly symptomatic of the gulf in resources that has largely existed between the two clubs but one that also speaks to the crushing psychological weight that this fixture has become for Everton Football Club and which Everton fans are forced to examine every time it comes around. It's an ingrained inferiority complex that is never easy to confront but it is especially painful now given how utterly flat the feeling is around the Blues' prospects almost three years into the Martinez project.
And therein lies the supreme irony. It was Martinez who swept into Goodison Park in June 2013 with a new broom of “Sin Miedo”-laden optimism and seemed to banish the “knives to a gunfight” mentality that had become pervasive under his predecessor in fixtures like this that had become daunting exercises for Blues fans.
Two years later, the despondency that hangs over the Blue half of Merseyside this week is completely at odds with how the mood should be going into an FA Cup semi-final, with the prospect of a second trip to Wembley and the shot at a trophy there for the taking. Drifting in mid-table with just nine Premier League wins all season, Everton have been lifeless since that stirring win over Chelsea in the quarter-finals and it's hard to envision where the spark is going to come from based on the performances in the interim.
Perversely, the fact that so many Evertonians have written the derby off — most eyes on squarely on Wembley this weekend — could work in the Blues' favour; perhaps the desperation we've felt in years gone by to get a result on Liverpool's cursed turf has worked against us in a cruel cosmic sense. And yet you just know that when the first whistle blows, those primal instincts coursing through our blue-blooded veins will resurface. It is, indeed, the hope that will kill us!
If form and disillusionment with life under Martinez weren't enough to dampen that hope, however, there's the fact that injuries seem to have caught up with Everton during this congested part of the fixture list, leaving the manager with some difficult decisions to make with the cup semi-final in mind.
Phil Jagielka and Seamus Coleman are ruled out. Tom Cleverley, Aaron Lennon and Leighton Baines are all doubtful. Ross Barkley will probably start despite being named on the bench against Southampton on Saturday and Romelu Lukaku could also play despite playing no part in that 1-1 draw.
Starting both Barkley and Lukaku so soon before a do-or-die FA Cup tie would represent a significant gamble even if they were both healthy but Martinez has to balance the risk of going to Wembley on the back of a defeat in a locally sensitive fixture. Having painted the next two games as “defining” in terms of the season, he can't really afford to lose both — although a win over United would change the complexion temporarily. Furthermore, with Oumar Niasse out of the picture and both Arouna Koné and Leon Osman game but virtually ineffective against Southampton, the manager needs to have those first-choice starters as options.
Bryan Oviedo will be required at left back if Baines doesn't make it but, if not, is one of the alternatives to the injured Coleman at right back along with James McCarthy, Lennon (again, if fit) and youngster Callum Connolly who acquitted himself so well at the weekend. Kevin Mirallas or Gerard Deulofeu's hopes might depend on the fitness of Cleverley, although it's possible that if he doesn't get passed fit that Darron Gibson or Muhamed Besic could be pushed forward and towards the left side of midfield.
Martinez complained this week that his squad — the one that was “too big” in January to accommodate the likes of Aiden McGeady and Gibson as they were listed for loan — has been stretched lately by injuries and suspension and it's true that he will not be going into these important games with anything close to a fully fit squad.
Regardless of the personnel selected, however, few Everton teams have ever lacked the spirit or desire to lift themselves for a derby match with Liverpool. A continuation of the dull, unimaginative and largely ineffective football that his charges have displayed since the cup win over Chelsea would surely condemn Everton to a second Anfield defeat in three seasons.
Because they will meet a Liverpool team enjoying hugely contrasting fortunes now that Jurgen Klopp is a few months into the role and his methods are starting to take hold. The reds are buoyant following their stunning victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League last week, one they followed with a 2-1 win at Bournemouth that keeps both their momentum and quest for European qualification via the league going.
They, too, have a semi-final on their minds but with the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho in good form, the shaky confidence they exhibited earlier in the season seems to have ebbed away. Should they find their rhythm and out-match Everton in terms of sheer will to win, then the Blues' back line will have their hands full.
Time is running out for Martinez and his charges to back up the manager's defiant claim that the style of football he is implementing means they “can compete with anyone.” Defeat to Liverpool wouldn't be the end of the world but it would not make for ideal preparation for Wembley which is where the last desperate hopes of a beleaguered fanbase now rest.
Kick-off: 8pm
Referee: Robert Madley
Predicted Line-up: Robles, Connolly, Stones, Funes Mori, Oviedo, Barry, McCarthy, Besic, Barkley, Deulofeu, Lukaku
Full details: ToffeeWeb match page
Reader Comments (149)
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2 Posted 20/04/2016 at 06:38:50
4 Posted 20/04/2016 at 06:48:26
5 Posted 20/04/2016 at 06:53:39
You mention these 2 games could define the manager's future. Say we lose comfortably tonight and in the semi then I assume most think he'll be history at the end of the season. That's not going to happen.
In fact, I heard a story yesterday that two fans met Kenwright on the train last week and asked him if he's going, to which he replied, "no chance, he's been unlucky this season."
If that's true we are well and truly doomed.
6 Posted 20/04/2016 at 06:54:24
7 Posted 20/04/2016 at 07:04:29
Taking the exchange on the train on its own, there are a few ways to look at it, the most obvious being that Bill is hardly likely to talk openly in public about a lack of faith in his manager or any temptation to sack him.
Another is that Moshiri ultimately holds sway, even if he only has a seat on the board by proxy, and if he feels strongly that Martinez has to go, then surely that's what will happen in the summer if things go badly awry between now and the end of the season.
In terms of the next two games, if we lose both then the clamour from supporters will become very hard to ignore. Whether that has any effect on the hierarchy's plans would remain to be seen.
8 Posted 20/04/2016 at 07:18:21
9 Posted 20/04/2016 at 07:21:00
10 Posted 20/04/2016 at 07:27:44
11 Posted 20/04/2016 at 07:38:10
12 Posted 20/04/2016 at 07:44:40
Rodgers knew his time was up before the game. That's why he wore a black tie, rather than the customary red.
No club wants to become a revolving door for managers – unless you are Chelsea, that normally only leads to longer term problems. However a well-run club will decide to replace it's manager, find the next person whilst leaving the incumbent in the role, and then make the change.
My fear is Kenwright is so desperate to be loved by all who work for him, his natural inclination is to give him more time – then as Newcastle may find out, making the change and bringing the "right" man in may be too little too late.
We could win all our remaining fixtures, thereby lifting silverware, and I don't think it would change the groundswell of opinion now.
13 Posted 20/04/2016 at 07:59:53
They are far from invincible and very beatable in my opinion and whilst I appreciate our form in the league hasn't been great we are safe with no threat of relegation and should just go out and play with no fear.
For us fans who are there tonight we need to put aside the Martinez out feelings and sing our hearts out. You just never know, but yes Lyndon, it is the hope that kills you!!
We've been up shit creek many times in my 40 years of watching the blues and we have surprised a few teams when our backs have been against the wall, so come on let's try and enjoy the day and remain positive!!! COYB!!
(Takes another blast on his crack pipe and dreams of a derby win!!!)
14 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:04:05
We have had two week breaks this season and came back after the rest looking as jaded as we would after three games in a week.
Put simply, if we lose these two matches then there is no going back for Martinez and many of these players.
Whoever sets foot on the pitch tonight should NOT need to be motivated by anyone else for a Merseyside derby.
If there are any shrinking violets in blue tonight then they should never be seen in a blue shirt again and offloaded in the summer.
We have a disgusting record against Liverpool and defeat tonight will put enormous pressure on them to pull out a performance on Saturday that to be honest at the minute I don't think the team is capable of.
It will be interesting to see how many times we cross the halfway line tonight and how many shots we register on target considering we have scored about 5 goals in 13 visits to Anfield and such is our usual timid nature of approaching derbies.
15 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:04:17
Martinez and the team seem to have put us in a weird state of limbo where our season feels over despite having the best chance of winning silverware in decades. To be feeling like that on the cusp of a derby game and Cup Semi in the space of four days can only prove there's something deeply wrong.
To be honest I think the issue has been forced by the Moshiri money.
Our expectations have been lifted but I think it's completely undermined what confidence the players and Martinez had (waiting for the hammer to fall), leading to shocking form, which has gone against the grain of how we think we should be performing and has heaped further pressure on the team.
It's a vicious circle which I think will only be broken now by either a huge change in form and a Cup win or the removal of the manager. I am expecting the latter to be the case and don't expect this to go away until Moshiri puts his cards on the table, which won't be until the end of the season.
So, let's pull our socks up, get through these games, get a Cup in the cabinet and see how the chips fall from there. No matter what happens we need action from the top to take the club forward though, they have caused the situation, now they need to fix it.
17 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:09:14
18 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:13:13
19 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:14:58
Surely they can't serve up more of the same shite and our 'big' players have done nothing lately so owe us big time.
20 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:18:47
FFS!!! What is wrong with people? Everton – get out there and batter the fucking shite out of them. If we lose we lose but we're taking a good few of those cunts down with us.
21 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:22:13
Roll on Wembley!
23 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:27:06
So, perhaps, even if we get nowt tonight (I've put a 'brown un' on the draw at 13/4) our manager will see us through to the Final.
Here's hoping anyway!
24 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:32:05
They also had Michael Ball on, who mentioned he goes to every game, and suggested he, like the rest of the crowd, is bored shitless with the tippy tappy (don't) keep ball.
25 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:39:46
26 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:42:52
27 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:48:06
I would give some youngsters a crack tonight. Not because of resting players for the semi but because I think they seem the only ones who really deserve it. Its hard to pick more than 3 players who have been playing with any heart or form for the last month. Funes Mori, Robles, Lennon and maybe Stones and Barry at a push?
Luckily both the derby and the cup seem to provide a platform on which previous form goes out the window and as such a potential release for the players. I fully expect to see a much more energised performance. I'll take a last minute equaliser in the derby and a tight win in the cup please.
28 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:49:56
Anyway, it hardly matters. Win, lose or draw, the most discredited manager in Everton's modern history will still be at the helm come Saturday. For me, that's the bigger concern.
29 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:54:15
Moyes's record for his first three full seasons was 45%, 24% and 47%.
Lesson learned = NEVER trust TS!
30 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:56:20
In Lukaku we always have a punchers chance, but we need to give him chances; with this in mind, I hope Ross is never more than 10 yards away from him.
The fallout from the next two games is what really interests me. COYB's
31 Posted 20/04/2016 at 08:58:06
32 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:01:55
Unlike some Blues, I don't hate Liverpool, don't even dislike them to be honest, but it would mean the world to me, nevertheless, if we could do what we haven't done for nearly 20 years and beat them over there.
So COME ON, MARTINEZ,
COME ON, YOU BLUES!
33 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:10:19
I've been defending our city (the blue version) all morning.
All that x-box 'call of duty' stuff too hard for me - this is my idea of a game, saving the lives of Evertonians in the city.
(there's a red and neutral version on there so you can compare scores with chums etc)
By the way, I'm shite and games so you all died about 50 times this morning.
34 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:10:55
As always this is a very important game to Liverpool's fans. Their players understand that, respond accordingly, and we habitually lose.
I've said it before, when we can match Liverpool will to win, and not just in the derby games, then we might start to match their achievements.
35 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:18:08
We've experienced some dark days as blues but I can't remember a derby where I didn't think we at least had a chance.
36 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:24:03
I agree. Responsibility for sending out a team with the will to win rests with the management team – if they can't instil it in those players at their disposal then such players should be replaced with ones with the required will.
Failure to do either should result in replacement of the management team itself. Will to win and fitness are the two most important elements of a winning team – failure by our current crop of skilled individuals proves the point. All that said, COYB!!
37 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:31:14
38 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:41:03
That's a paltry SIX wins in over FIFTY years so little blame can attach to Roberto if we don't pull it off tonight. (But it will, of course!)
39 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:42:51
I think that's how a lot of us feel.
40 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:54:05
Howard;
Connolly, Stones, Funes Mori, Galloway;
Besic, McCarthy;
Deulofeu, Dowell, Oviedo;
Niasse.
Along with a good few youngsters on the bench (Holgate, Foulds, Henen, etc).
I'd rest Lukaku, Barkley, Lennon, Mirallas and Barry – and give Dowell a well deserved debut.
While also giving Howard a last derby day.
41 Posted 20/04/2016 at 09:58:49
42 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:05:51
43 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:09:00
44 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:09:55
I suggested in one post a few days ago that in some ways tonight's game couldn't come at a better time (howls of derision I know!). The team needs something to give them some impetus prior to Wembley and "just another league game" wouldn't cut the mustard – but tonight's game is a totally different kettle of fish.
The occasion simply demands that we turn up and fight our corner, the very injection of some much needed chemistry is a must and a top performance will carry them though to Wembley in the right frame of mind.
At least that's the theory.
45 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:25:26
As for the rumours about RM staying at the helm even if we lose both games, I just can't see it. Maybe that's BK's idea, but the fans will turn I think. The only think that has stopped them doing such so far is our cup run. But I would love to win both, especially Saturday;, we're all desperate to win a trophy to repay the thousands of travelled miles, wads of cash spent and the emotion we invest in them, we just want a trophy. It'd be beautiful.
Kunal, 'results based business' – but according to RM it's not about results, but 'performances'! Mind you, both have been woeful.
Matt, glad Ball said that. I am also very 'bored' of the slow passing game we play.
As for tonight, give a few youngsters a go as on Saturday, they really put themselves about, some heart in their display; prob. because they haven't been as exposed to the Martinez bullshit.
Would love to do the RS, COYB, give us something to cheer about!
46 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:26:43
The type of football Martinez wants his teams to play for me has now been found to be flawed. hence Leicester and Spurs at the top of the league and not the tippy tappy purist type played by Man city and Arsenal.
Even Barcelona seem to have been found out now, if there latest results are anything to go buy. Up and at them high intensity game has now been proved to be the way forward, if anybody has any doubts about it then just watch tonight's game.
47 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:27:06
48 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:39:54
Yes, tactical expertise can influence a game... but give me a manager / coach with real motivational skills and understands the game – goes to war with you every game, a manager players look up to, and respect... That's when you know you can beat anyone!!
Sadly we have a manager who struggles to hide his shameful weaknesses and pretends to be in control of this magical, special football club.
Dreaming that our club will employ a manager, who doesn't hide behind a philosophy that looks great on paper but a manager who Leads by example, shows his feelings, gets everybody on-board; and makes every player feel they are invincible when they play for this great club!!! Martinez Out!
49 Posted 20/04/2016 at 10:49:13
If we try and play the game in their half, and get bodies round Lukaku, we will win!
50 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:11:19
51 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:14:27
52 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:15:25
53 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:21:51
We need guile and heart in the middle of the park – put Pienaar in the centre.
Robles,
Connolly, Stones, Funes Mori, Oviedo,
McCarthy, Barry, Besic,
Pienaar,
Barkley, Lukaku.
Bring Osman on for Pienaar after 60 minutes.
The one thing going for us going into this game is that they will think they only have to turn up to win – their smug like that. Let's give it to them.
Up the Blues.
54 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:22:26
Wednesday (4-3-3), GK Howard, RB Connolly, LB Oviedo, CD Stones CD Funes Mori, CM Osman CM Gibson CM Besic, RW Deulofeu, LW Mirallas, CF Kone
Saturday (4-2-3-1) GK Robles, RB Coleman, CD Jagielka, CD Stones, LB Baines, DCM Barry, DCM McCarty, RW Lennon ACM Barkley LW Cleverly CF Lukaku.
I have assumed that Coleman, Jagielka, Baines, Lennon will all be ok for Saturday. From these 2 teams there is only Stones who needs to play 2 full games.
55 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:35:34
I think Robles is going to be busy, but I think its an excellent opportunity for him and the defence to show their mettle.
COYB!
56 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:37:40
I think £13.5 million makes him our third highest signing behind Rom and Fellaini so would reasonably think at that price that he at least could give a kick up the backside to Lukaku and galvanise the team for the remainder of the season but all we hear is that he's not fit cos he's got a bad wrist!!
I can remember Kevin Richardson playing a number of games in the 80s with a cast on his arm and scoring against Villa with it on in the League Cup semi final. Surely Martinez should be quizzed on why, after 3 months at the club, he still reckons he's not fit??
Saying that though, if he comes on tonight and scores the winner, I'll be jumping up and down as much as anybody!!
57 Posted 20/04/2016 at 11:55:09
59 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:00:38
Even in the years of our decline (Harvey, Kendall MK2, Walker, Royle, Smith) we never took a bad pasting, no matter how bad we were in ability we always put up a fight and had a bit of pride.
The 1990's gave us a good Derby record (8 games unbeaten at one stage, thanks mainly to Big Joe). But once Moyes got in it all went pear shaped.
Relegation (we nearly there twice remember) seemed better than being beaten twice by that lot every season, being in a different division meant they couldn't beat us (i hope that makes sense).
Our record since Moyes got in is just unbearable, something has to be done about the inferiority complex in the players minds before these games, whether it be the manager's mindset or tactics. It's just not acceptable on any level and has gone on for far too long.
I've a cracking DVD called "Victories over Liverpool". Can the players not watch this in the week building up to the Derby to see what it really means to the fans and what it takes to do it?
Tonight, I'm telling myself "don't watch it, it'll take years off my lifespan...again". But it'll be championship manager on the computer and watching it, swearing, shouting etc etc because I simply can't fathom why a player in our blue shirt isn't going after every one of them like a starving lion going for his next dinner.
If it was me playing my only mindset would be looking forward to booting them all over the park and winning. Nothing else would be good enough. Those ba57@rds bring out the worst in me. A draw stops their slabbering, a win for us keeps them quiet for a while.
And yes, tonight on Championship Manager, I'll be managing Everton. Under Harvey, Kendall and Royle we always knew we had a good chance in the Derby's' how has got to be so bad now?
60 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:05:08
I also think the players have decided that all that matters is the game on Saturday at Wembley. Despite a couple coming out and saying its the players fault for this season, I don't believe many have any faith left in RM. So for them it will be all or nothing at Wembley on Saturday.
61 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:10:35
Notwithstanding that , the form of our strongest team is poor and so it seems the RS will be licking their lips.
We can but hope for a miracle because that is all Martinez is clinging to these days and yet sometimes they do happen. Could this be the only one that happens this season (apart from Rom's goal against Chelski)?
62 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:16:13
BK really does believe its all down to bad luck this season. Crazy situation. Ah well not long now to heaven or hell. Do I come on TW after I get back from the game? Mmmm... let's see.
63 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:17:36
However, in a perverse sort of way, because everything does seem against us, I have a glimmer of hope that we will not only get a point, but that Lukaku will earn his salary for the first time this month and score a winner in the 91st minute.
It's too early for a vodka so I'm stone cold sober.
64 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:17:55
I feel exactly the same, in my case it's around 45 years since I started supporting Everton. They must/should know what it means to us.
It saddens me to say this but they do need to see a film of teams from our past and be told, that passion, not to mention any "trick" you can pull out of the bag to win; we should get out and get at them quick – let them know they're in for a hard game.
65 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:23:01
66 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:31:21
Martinez's reign could be summed up by the line from Bon Jovi "You promised me heaven but put me through hell."
67 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:32:57
68 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:33:49
69 Posted 20/04/2016 at 12:59:24
I'd play him and tell him to rise to the occasion. I like this kid.
I have a meeting this afternoon with my web / marketing guru so I can't watch. Although this is the least excited I've ever been in my 9 years of bastardized, overseas support for a derby, I'm gutted to have to watch delayed.
7 pm EST with 5 sons and the Mrs watching on the DVR is going to have to do. No barstool in America derby this game.
More's the pity.
I'll say a prayer at 2:45 pm EST.
Surprise us and just fucking win please Everton.
70 Posted 20/04/2016 at 13:03:59
Scott, love the link! Far too many ted shite pundits.
72 Posted 20/04/2016 at 13:55:08
I've tried not following derbies or pretending they don't matter but I'll end up kicking every ball thinking "why do we put ourselves through this?" and usually it ends in massive disappointment.
73 Posted 20/04/2016 at 14:01:27
Relax, Said Roberto,
We are programmed to keep the ball,
I'll still be here talking shite next year,
Even if we win f*ck all..............
Cue Joe Walsh, Glen Frey etc.............
I wish Roberto would just take a Mink DeVille (Spanish Stroll)
74 Posted 20/04/2016 at 14:09:23
RM is quoted as saying "if we win the 2 games everything will be fine, if we lose everything will be my fault". He goes on to say "it's about the style of football not how good you are with it." "I will always promote a style that will allow us to compete with any team and not have a roof of the top 7."
He finishes by saying "he has had many more signs that fans can see what we are trying to do and where we are going and that gives us real drive and satisfaction"
As you say BK – "What a manager"!!!!!!.
75 Posted 20/04/2016 at 14:15:06
Last 6 league games for us: D3 L3, for them W4 D1 L1.....I just hope we can nick a goal from a corner (Funes Mori?) or a Barkley/Mirallas wonder strike.
76 Posted 20/04/2016 at 14:24:55
Only by doing that will his pure genius be recognised.
77 Posted 20/04/2016 at 14:46:03
Interesting....
So that is why we are sitting mid table or lower...
Thank fuck that we managed to "compete " with Villa.....Sunderland and Newcastle Utd.
What a manager.
78 Posted 20/04/2016 at 14:46:12
Personally I think the RedShite will be happy with a 1-0 and will be happy to sit back – while we huff and puff. Losing 1-0 and the board will give him more time; getting thrashed will signal the end and do we risk him for the semi-final? Let's see how it all pans out this evening.
79 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:00:32
And Lyndon, after reading your preview, I had to check it will be 11 against 11.
Come on the Blues!
80 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:14:09
81 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:19:52
"It is about the style of football, not how good you are with that style. I will always promote a style of football that will allow us to compete with any team – and not have a roof of the top seven."
So remember everyone, it's all about 'style' – not how good you are.
People say he is 'nice' is he fuck, he's an arrogant wanker.
82 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:23:30
83 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:32:18
For the first I can remember, not just because I'm on holiday, I'm turning my phone off, ignoring it completely and going to a national park.
I cannot believe how slowly this miserable season seems to be crawling towards the end. Bring on the cricket and Martinez's sacking!
84 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:35:34
85 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:42:18
Why play any defenders or a goalkeeper at all?
On a side note, I've always been one for rubbishing blues that think we're harshly treated but I've just noticed that Sky have a headline article on how Liverpool might look next season.
I would fucking love it..............love it.
86 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:51:56
This one has disaster written all over it and we should play a team almost entirely of youngsters both for this and the FA Cup game.
87 Posted 20/04/2016 at 15:57:54
I just want our player's to give their all tonight and Saturday, and if we lose, so be it.
88 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:03:11
That redshite jersey should be a bloody rag to a bull for an Everton player, or I've been following the wrong team for a long time now? A few extra strong tackles, and this Liverpool team which is predominantly made up of spice boys (Coutinho, Firmino, Sturridge, Moreno, Lallana, Origi et al,) can be at the very least be roughed up. We'll get to watch as their self-entitlement fuelled over reaction kicks in, and even give the blues a chance, dare I say.
Please, please a bit of fecking pride and fight, we're not going across the park to make friends now are we?
COYB
89 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:04:25
And while he's at it, what's his excuse for last season? Was that just unlucky too?
90 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:07:18
91 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:11:00
" Roberto, well we've had enough of his incredible footy and he will be gone by the end of Monday 16th May" so maybe just trotting out a yarn.
Anyway I am working tonight will have an eye on the forum for updates so just want to say
COYB STUFF THE RED SHITE TWATS
92 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:11:45
We dominated possession and scored plenty of goals. Now probably because Martinez has adopted a more safety first approach to counter the defensive mistakes we look dreadful. Looking at our last few games there are only two that look like possible wins.
We really need an ambitious charismatic leader to bring our club back. I'm fed up with going into these derby games with dread.
93 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:12:55
It will only take one look at my son's face to see what's happened at the game. As usual I have bet him 㿀 we will get beat, the reason for that is I never ever win a bet.
COYB, please.
94 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:25:26
"He was saying Everton hadn't underachieved in the league and that the players weren't exactly challenging for the league title beforehand."
Anyone know if true??
96 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:43:58
Should be sacked before tonight's game!!!
That last statement wasn't meant to be taken seriously, at the end of the season will do for me..............JUST!
97 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:45:52
99 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:54:16
There, I said it. 2-0 .
COYB!
100 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:55:47
102 Posted 20/04/2016 at 16:59:56
So, let's take it to the limit as love will keep us alive until we have a new kid in town. As the song says,
We may lose and we may win though
We will never be here again
So open up, I'm climbing in,
So take it easy.
COYB!!!
104 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:04:55
He's talking utter shite this week like he doesn't care anymore.
105 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:05:00
Send out our best 11 who are fit. No square pegs in round holes either. Start with a 4-3-3 since the Rs won't be expecting it and go out and win this. Besides, our away form has been better this season so why can't we win it?
So, pardon my American optimism but we will win this dammit.
Courtesy of my USWNT's supporters, repeat after me, I believe. . . . I believe that . . . . I believe that we . . . . . I believe that we will . . . I believe that we will win . . . . I believe that we will win. and keep saying it until you can shout it! COYB
107 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:07:25
108 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:10:53
Graham, wouldn't surprise me!
109 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:23:02
The idea of Martinez playing the likes of Hibbert, Kone and Osman instead, leaves me wondering why these players are still considered first team material, when they are never going to be good enough anytime now.
110 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:27:58
In truth, its all bollox and like any other manager he will ultimately be judged on results. There is NO escape from those. It's just a matter of how long it takes Uncle Bill and Mr 49.9% to take a look at them.
In the meantime, I wish him and the team every good fortune tonight and on Saturday.
112 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:36:02
There's gonna be a Heartache Tonight,
For the Redshite,
I know.
114 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:41:26
115 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:44:55
Let's hope that whatever happens this week, the only Eagles song title that needs to be attributed to our present manager is "Already Gone".
COYB
116 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:47:26
117 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:49:11
118 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:53:04
And, no doubt, by the morning we shall all be hoping to 'Get over it'
119 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:53:17
Why don't you come to your senses
You've been passing it sideways far too long
121 Posted 20/04/2016 at 17:54:36
I've been feeling a bit low over our current situation. The drawer in the kitchen ,with all the sharp knives is locked. Can't find any tablets and I've lost the shilling for the gas cooker.
However, all your comments above have given me a bit of lift. So,as we seem to be having a musical interlude – "help me make it through the night".
122 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:04:16
"Go Now"
COYB
123 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:06:11
124 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:06:16
125 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:12:32
126 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:12:33
I cant believe you of all people have penned such a gloomy preview. I know you are trying to be realistic, but you're acting out of character. Hope does not kill you, its springs eternal
Sure we are second favourites, but this is a winnable game, they are vulnerable at the back and we have 2-3 players who are likely at any given time to cast of their uninspired performances of late and spark into life.
And what's with the people who say they aren't watching? what are you going to do, listen to Dot Cotton or Emily Bishop?
These are the games we should be relishing, if we cant get up for this what's the point.
If you haven't got a ticket, get a couple of Mahatma`s down your neck, get in front of the telly and burst a few blood vessels.
Give these fuckers nothing.
127 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:17:47
128 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:19:09
But rapidly switching artists, let's hope Neil Diamond can be singing a 'Song Sung Blue' tonight rather than drinking 'Red Red Wine' after tonight's game.
Although, I guess we can sing the former whichever way it goes!
129 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:20:08
We don't agree on much but I'm with you 100% there. We should go there on the front foot and tear into them.
You are probably like me and wouldn't set foot in that ground. Telly for me and on the vino as we speak.
130 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:23:41
Fuck that; Martinez and each one of these footballers should be playing for their future at the club.
It's guts and pride in the shirt needed tonight and guile on Saturday. Believe.
131 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:24:33
132 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:24:52
133 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:27:20
134 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:29:26
And apologies Phil, but mine is of THAT colour, it's generally stronger so will help numb the pain.
135 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:34:46
But the bookies don't know everything......or do they?
136 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:34:54
Come on Everton, just fuckin' come on, you Blues, and do the business
137 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:36:23
This is going to be fun!
138 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:43:54
OK, maybe one eye on the game.
139 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:44:47
I've already started on the Famous Grouse (much too important occasion to drink the local piss!) so no driving into Pafos for me. Only problem is that Wigan Woman will be in my ear all night!
141 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:49:41
142 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:51:24
143 Posted 20/04/2016 at 18:51:45
The teams haven't been announced yet!
144 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:01:51
Whilst I can't quite be positive enough to take 9/2 on us winning I've gone over 12.5 corners at 7/5 and over 14.5 at 29/10.
COYB
145 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:03:05
Get into them you Blue Boys – take no prisoners and make us proud. The next game is a always the most important – tonight is the next game. Saturday can look after itself. COYB
146 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:04:19
147 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:05:38
Never mind though, whatever happens tonight, as long as the players go at them, give them a fight then even if we get beat, the players will get full support of the fans.
I think the worry is (certainly for me) that we don't turn up. I can stand getting beat, they're a good team in top form and we've been through several mangles!
I'll be sitting in the parlour with the radio on and just wishing I'd got several bottles of beer in. Ah well, a nice cup of milky tea does wonders for assorted ailments and attacks of the vapours.
If some of the kids play, there'll be no disgrace on them whatever happens, just get stuck into them and keep your heads up lads.
148 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:05:38
They just need to get out there and give it to the RS. I can't expect a win but I demand passion.
Over to the players.
149 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:06:10
150 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:19:29
Texas Flood (Steve Rae Vaughan)
One of my fave pieces of music.
It's an omen I tell ya...
152 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:22:00
153 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:25:41
I hope I'm pissed before the game starts. Come on Everton, try your best is all we ask for.
154 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:29:35
155 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:34:53
156 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:36:42
157 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:38:37
It's very good compared to home form.
160 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:43:14
161 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:47:13
162 Posted 20/04/2016 at 19:52:17
Doesn't change the managerial position but I need to read and see something positive around our great club.
COYB!!!!
163 Posted 20/04/2016 at 20:21:18
164 Posted 20/04/2016 at 20:27:56
165 Posted 20/04/2016 at 23:48:24
Everyone of those players with a blue shirt on tonight with the exception of Funes Mori needs fucking.
Forget the semi – we'll get fucked with this idiot in charge... just get this twat out now before he does any more damage.
166 Posted 21/04/2016 at 00:28:32
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1 Posted 20/04/2016 at 06:35:08
The post-match interview will be a real treat.