Silva: We should have seen the game out at 2-0

Hate to single players out, but felt Davies was very weak in midfield, and Leighton showed again that he has difficulty lasting the 90 minutes.

As I have always maintained since Silva has been with us, no-one can say that he has not given players a chance to prove themselves, and a few have been found to be not good enough for a regular slot.

Watching the RS game against Brighton, and their defence seem much more organised than us (Brighton) at set pieces and in general play.

The only criticism of Silva today was that at 2 goals up, he should have shored the defence with Zouma and Digne, and held out for the final whistle. Having said that, I don't believe that is his style, but it has exposed that some surgery at the back is required, and not to leave the subs till the dying minutes.

The problem I have is that, in my opinion, Mr Silva did nothing to help us see the game out.

2 winnable away games, in the lead in both, all goals conceded preventable.

Mr Silva has had these players for a couple of months now and hasn't appeared to improve us defensively.

The team is improving under his tenure so far. Hopefully when his players come in we will see further improvement in all departments but meanwhile I would suggest he plays to the present players strengths and if he sees deficiencies in the defence either change the system or change the players. Thus far he's done neither.

They seem to have sorted that out now, but to give you an example from Everton's own history, until we find our new "Kevin Ratcliffe" who was a superb leader, we will continue to ship goals.

So to imply that in 3 games, with 3 of the 4 new defensive players being here less than a month and one of them being injured, that this should all be sorted isn't quite fair. His defensive system had nothing to do with Baines barreling into the back of a player to give away a penalty. Baines should be one of the experienced players that can be counted on. That simply can not be put down to Silva and his system.

If you really want to look at it, we've had to use a different defensive group in each game. First game Jags and Keane but Jags gets sent off, brings on Holgate. Next match Holgate and Keane, but Schneiderlin gets injured in central midfield. Third match Holgate and Keane with no Schneiderlin in midfield, but now Keane is injured. So we'll see another new defensive set up in game 4. And in 2 of the 3 games so far we've been reduced to 10 men.

Hopefully got there in the end. :-)

As far as I can recall Baines, Coleman, Jags, Keane, Holgate have been working with Silva for a couple of months.

However the thrust of the post was that Silva talks about the team seeing the game out at 2-0 but appeared to do nothing to achieve that.

Today's happenings firmed up my view that Silva is another one unprepared to 'close games out' and, unless his new but unplayed signings are made of sterner stuff naturally, we have a manager who will make history repeat itself!

The players need to start taking responsibility at defending though, three weeks running we have conceded cheap as chips goals now and we haven't even played a top top side.

The poverty of away wins means we need to always win our home games and six points need taking from Huddersfield and West Ham before a trip to perennial bogey ground Arsenal.

Years ago, there were a handful of good refs; now there are none whatsoever and that was reflected by no representatives at the World Cup.

What I will say, though, is I think Silva will be having a word with Richarlison about trying to keep things under wraps a bit more and not making himself an easy target for windup merchants because referees will have a field day with the lad if he reacts like that on a regular basis. It's just 2018 and football for you and you don't succumb to tit heads like that Smith.

No manager can legislate for daft decisions made by professional players, that he chooses because he thinks they are the best for the job at the time. As the players are learning about the managers methods, he too is learning about his players, to expect any manager to fix all of the ills that have beset the team in the last four or five years in three matches is asking a bit much, isn't it?

If his team are still making the same catastrophic errors on a regular basis in October & November, then it might be fair to be concerned about the manager's methods... but let's see what unfolds in the next few weeks and months – please don't be Roberto Mk II, Marco! I couldn't stand it!! :)

So, to me, two draws away and a win at home is satisfactory, but slightly disappointing. I'm hopeful that, before the next window opens, we're seeing fewer soft goals being conceded because, by then, we'll have seen better players in the culprits' shirts.

I said even when Allardyce was here that the players really shouldn't need a managers instruction when leading 2-0 away from home with 15 minutes remaining, surely it's pretty self explanatory?

Just use a bit of savvy and common sense and drop a bit deeper, make no space for the opponent to fashion a simple chance and try to take the sting out of the game by holding the ball wisely?

It does appear that this current crop of players are pretty slow learners really, you'd think after Wolves two weeks ago they'd draw on a bit of that experience and think “let's not make the same mistakes defensively again and give them a cheap goal”.

But no, at 2-0 and cruising, we make the last 15 minutes a whole lot harder than it should have been.

Blame managers to some extent but the players need to be a bit more responsive and lead by example more on that pitch; that's where the call for vocal leaders of men comes in — and where are ours?

Agree with Derek @2 though. Silva should have been more pragmatic at 0-2. Zouma and Digne would have made a lot of sense. Holgate and Baines were poor and we needed help back there. Baines is sadly finished as first choice — and the sooner Silva realises that, the better.

I think more errors made by Silva but unlike Martinez I think he will learn... and also hopefully improve his substitutions because they come too late.

This Summer we bought in 1 goalkeeper, 1 attacker, 2 midfielders and 3 defenders. Almost a whole new back four.

And so far only Digne has had a few minutes.

Solid defenses take time to build and coach. But he knows it's an issue.

That's my only real slight criticism of the manager today and hopefully he learns quickly because he will know better than anyone that modern day football is a unforgiving business.

What were Richarlison and Baines thinking of? And who's that guy masquerading as Coleman with the lead boots?

Definitely, when we conceded the penalty, I'd've gone to a back 3. No idea why I'm sat at home watching on an iPad...

The Ref: absolutely, the contact was minimal and Smith was provoking and simulating so he should have gone also if anyone.

The Manager: yes, he did not react when we stopped playing after going 0-2 up. Should have put Zouma and Digne in straight away and this is not hindsight as every one of us could see that and said it during the game.

Stupidity: Richarlison really fucked up when he went there to confront that sucker Smith. He should try to concentrate on trying to help the team and while doing that make the boy lose his nerve instead of letting your team down.

The Positives: Quite an achievement to go 0-2 up while your best player (up to this) has been red-carded. Pity it did not last.

Not for the first time we overdid passing the ball back to Pickford. When we have comfortable possession inside the opposition half we should continue moving the ball forward not working it back to the keeper who has no option but to kick it long giving opponents at least a 50% chance of regaining possession.

My only frustration – as cited by Derek (2) and James (29) – is that we didn't make those defensive adjustments to see out the win. I'm not sure why it's so difficult to strike a pragmatic balance between attacking and defending. It always seems like we either have Martinez swinging recklessly from the chandelier, or Allardyce sucking all the oxygen out of the stadium by parking the bus in the tunnel before the match.

Defensively we are still very weak because they had two one on one opportunities early on too which coupled with our red card could have seen the game done for us.

We are definitely being a bit more attack minded with some nice interchanges but overall we still lack quality. Hopefully our new recruits will bring that quality.

Lots of things for Silva to think about including his own way of defending because we played Bournemouth yesterday who without any stand out players, gave us a hard game.

Bringing on Calvert-Lewin to do absolutely nothing is always a mystery and though I like Davies, he was having a poor game today and should've come off.

And those saying Sigurdsson was MotM, well I can only shake my head.

I'm a fan of the new gaffa, but fact is when ya team get 2-0 up after playing with 10 men they need help from the line.

A Mourinho or a Benitez would have brought on Zouma, gone 5 across the back and seen out the game.

Niasse or Calvert-Lewin for Tosun, or even Walcott up top for legs, but he had to do something before conceding 2 goals. His naivety was our downfall today, but he's young and will hopefully learn from today.

Richarlison isn't completely blameless that much is clear, but the team done what was needed, the manager did not.

People confuse defending in numbers with good defending. They are two entirely different things. To defend in numbers you have to sacrifice your own ambition, your own threat. Its looks to me like Silva is not prepared to make that sacrifice.

Steve ferns wrote so much about Silva it'd take about 20 years to find out if he was right or not, but he was most definitely right about one thing. He said we would love this guy and although the romance is still in it's early stages, there has been much, very much, to like.

When we went down to ten men at Wolves and Bournemouth. Moyes, Allardyce and Koeman would all have shut up shop and defended in numbers. We'd have gotten a 0-0 draw, or conceded a late sickener. This fella surprises the opposition by attacking in numbers. both our centre backs were right under their crossbar for our second.

Can Silva sort out the defence ? I don't know
Will we concede by pushing men up the park in pursuit of goals ? Yes we will.
Will the goals we concede cancel out all the good work we've done going forward ? We cant rule that out o the Evidence so far

By all means be critical, that's your duty as an Evertonian and It's ok to moan like fuck when the anger of losing a two goal lead boils over, but please: Lets not start calling for the return of the likes of Moyes and the anti football defending in numbers represents.

Enjoy the fact that your heart is pumping again.

With 3 new defenders to work their way in (plus Holgate showing well and Keane certainly 'improved') I feel we'll get things right there sooner rather than later, the main thing for me is the performance at the other end. We're creating genuine chances every match, have put 6 goals away without the lead striker scoring and netted 2 today when our new golden boy was off the pitch. We finally look like a team that can cause problems for defence in a variety of ways - some smart passing from midfield, running at defence with pace, using the flanks or direct to a strong target man.
If we're to take some inspiration from across the park, surely scoring goals regularly is the first priority if we really want to challenge the big boys?

That's a start! We've got 5 points from 9 after two away games... I mean if we'd scraped another win that would be 7 from 9 and we'd be over the moon with that start wouldn't we?

So let's not get too down. It feels like we lost 4 points in the away games but at least we're playing in such a way that we feel we should be winning away games!!!

So I'll give Marco a pass grade at the moment. The big concern is the defence but, then, he's only been here 5 minutes and has already brought in 3 new defenders to the club. At least it looks like he knows it's a problem too!

Stay positive Blues. There's plenty of reason for caution but also plenty for optimism.

Yesterday's goals were down to lack of concentration and poor defending, which happen regardless of 'system'.

It's thirty odd years since we've had a defence I could completely trust. I'm not calling out any manager after three games.

3 matches in and I'm ecstatic

We're showing attack mindedness, amazing team spirit (I assure you we would have lost to both Wolves and Bournemouth last season in those circumstances) and we have a sense of togetherness and optimism. We're disappointed because we know we could have got more. Last season we were disappointed because we were always rubbish

3 games in and there's much to praise. Lest we forget it's such early doors for Silva and hopefully he's here for a few years

We have good if not better defenders to come in soon; also, the addition of Gomes in midfield could transform the team.

Much better going forward. Genuine threat from our attacking players, feeling a bit for Tosun as he's now had about 120 mins playing on his own and sacrificing himself from getting into better positions to score himself. Hope he bags a couple soon as he's been doing lots of positive stuff.

Win the next two home games and these draws will hopefully be forgotten and seen as decent points.

Yesterday, we were let down by two stupid mistakes... Richarlison and Baines.

Moyes should only be let in Goodison if he has Ron Jeremy poking his member in one ear and out the other in the centre circle before kick off whilst the crowd do a minutes applause.

The rest of the post is boss, la!

Yesterday we had poor performances from Coleman (hasn't been the same since his injury in my opinion), Baines (how often does the attacker get in front of him in the box leading to a penalty or goal), Davies, Richarlison and Holgate was a bit shaky. Given that and down to ten men we did well albeit it could have been even better.

Tom seemed to miss Morgan, I thought Keane played well again, Siggy and Theo are class acts and Tosun is showing what a good CF he is. Richi seemed frustrated to me that he wasn't in the game and allowed his frustration to boil over – he will learn.

For me Digne has to play. Baines looks good on the ball but defensively he is too vulnerable now and Digne is bigger and stronger. We will see Zouma this week and Bernard with the injuries and suspension and I just hope we don't see Jags reappear next Saturday when I am travelling for my first game of the season with the West Country Blues!

Seamus worries me – is it the effect of his terrible injury or is he just struggling to hit form? He hasn't been his consistent best so far this season and if he gets back to that level then he and Theo will be dynamite down the right.

Lots to be optimistic about but please stop slagging off the kids. If the back four and Gana are struggling then Tom is bound to as well. Some on the live forum started on Calvert-Lewin before he set foot on the pitch – this is lunacy. Some fans were like that with the young Graeme Sharp and look how he turned out!

A 21-year-old centre-forward is not going to stand out coming on with ten minutes left with a man down but he puts in the effort and will become a top striker in my opinion. Give these lads a chance!

I can't remember when we have scored 2 goals in our opening 3 games with 2 of them being away. But I am sure one of our stats boys will soon tell me. I would also say remember last season when most of us said we just want to see an Everton team go out and try and win games especially away. Well you may criticize Silva for some things but he has certainly sent this team out to win every game home or away.

I think we also have to take on board he has brought in 3 defenders, so it didn't take him long to see were the frailties were in the team. But so far has not been able to start them because of injury, but hopefully in the coming weeks we will see his signings have an impact on the team. I know patience isn't something fans like to hear but let's give this man time, and I believe it will pay dividends. Most thought getting into the top 6 in his first season would be difficult, but I don't think he will be far off.

The big worry for me is: Is there a leader among the new men? Not just a captain but a player who can shout and instruct and liven up the team, make them aware that we are going to sleep etc. We certainly needed someone on the field like that yesterday, especially in the last 20 minutes or so

The biggest difference I've noticed, is how he is getting so much more from the players he inherited (apart from Richarlison) which is a sign of an excellent man manager. Silva, appears to have created a new spirit within the squad and with everyone available to choose from, I can see a marked improvement in a very short space of time which bodes well for the future. Onwards and upwards.

Another goal was from a free kick that was set up by Jags simply losing concentration when receiving a pass and then getting sent off. The free kick taken more than 5 yards closer than it should have been.

Watching Fulham vs Burnley, it's 3-2 Fulham at the half. A whole lot of man marking from set pieces, yet 5 goals in the first half alone, with the defensive Burnley being victims 3 times.

People act as if everyone else is keeping clean sheets. And also failing to see how we are threatening the opponent's goal far more. Chances are created in every game. The defense are still learning just as the rest of the team is. It's been three games with a different lineup in each game due to injury and suspension, with the new defenders not even brought into the team yet. Do ya think there might be a reason we signed three defenders in the window?

You do come up with some warped observations.

Everton's defence seems to be your current bone to gnaw over.

As others have already pointed out, the signings of Mina and Kouma came too late to be included for the opening game against Wolves. Mina is carrying an injury. For all those calling for Digne, Baines has started the season well and is not ready for early retirement as some are lobbying for.

Silva is but three competitive games into his managerial reign at Everton, has not yet had a full defensive selection to choose from, but already you are calling him out as 'the 5th manager in as many years who don't know how to set up a defence that does not concede goals so lightly.'

If this is still the situation come - say, the end of October - then you may have a case. But how about paraphrasing and applying to Silva and Everton's defence the advice and encouragement you offer opposition teams: 'just be patient and the goals against will dry up [as the team and defence improve under Silva's tutelage].

As for your suggestion of recruiting Moyes as our defensive coach, d'ya really not know yer 'istory? Moyes should never ever be employed in any capacity at the club again, given his comments and conduct towards the club in the wake of his move to United.

And I rather fancy the role is already taken by one, or many, of Silva's coaching staff.

In all other sports, defending is most important. But at Everton it is treated as an occupational hazard, as a new season takes place with the same defensive problems of panicking whenever a ball is put into the Everton penalty area. So unless you have a solution, please don't have a go at me, just send your comments to EFC.

Because Newcastle have set up to do nothing but defend!! Are you serious, you want that at Everton again? We just got rid of that with Allardyce, defend defend defend.

It does nothing but mire a club in the depths of the alsorans, mid table to lower table mediocrity and a bunch of “close” 1-0 defeats. Newcastle never even tried to win, just as they did against City last season while only having 19% possession.

Sorry, I'll take going to the win over 19% possession and losing 1-0 every single day of the week. You can go support Benitez if that's what you want to see. Enjoy, if you can stay awake long enough to see the inevitable conceded goal.

A bit premature there, aren't you, Steavey? The defenders we've just splashed the cash on haven't started yet. And we haven't played any of the top 6 yet.

As I say, some just can't wait to stick the knife into Silva.

I watched the game yesterday and clearly Bournemouth should have been one up through Wilson when he skied a clear one over and that came from Leighton's lack of pace and Coleman being dragged across. Allied to Keane being slow turning right to left, it was clear Howe had targetted the over-the-top into the channel between Keane and Baines as the main avenue. This was seen again in the 2nd half for the Wilson one-on-one and then the penalty.

Wolves did similar and to me it's clear that speed and turning ability are a liability for us. Unfortunately, we will now see a change due to Keane's injury but it will at least negate a deficiency that, if I was still playing, would be my target. Get well soon, Mike.

In the other half, we were busy and had good possession but lacking a target. I like Cenk but he doesn't worry defenders like a true centre-forward would. He's a 7 out of 10 but to get an 8 will cost 㿞M so let's stick by him and see what he can produce as the front quartet bed in. Bernard will have to get used to the pace and power quickly and I don't see him doing so until November.

Finally, Charlie's red exemplifies what I hate about modern football. Playacting and refs who have never played. Once upon a time, Smith would have been ticked of by his own captain.

I am so happy compared to last season and wish all fellow Blues an exciting season.

Let's try this again to see if it penetrates that skull of yours. SILVA HAS BEEN IN CONTROL FOR 3 GAMES AND HAS NOT BROUGHT ANY OF THE THREE NEW DEFENDERS INTO THE TEAM.

You act as if everyone else has been defensive stalwarts. They haven't. The team is learning the new tactics and the manager is learning about the players. It's been individual mistakes that have cost us goals. Meanwhile we are a threat to win every game. The days of going to the “top 6” to defend for 90 minutes and hope for a 0-0 point are hopefully dead and buried.

Come on lad, it's the third game into Silva's reign. Give him a chance.

You'll be able to tell me then that they kept a clean sheet and got at least a draw out of the game then, no?

That's staggeringly stupid! Everton have spent on defenders WHO HAVE NOT YET PLAYED! HOW FUCKING...[Don't want to get banned].

I don't know how we'll fare at those grounds this season or indeed in most matches we play home and away against any team. What I do know is that we are far more fun to watch and that is a start, but I also agree that conceding too many goals too often has to be stopped as soon as possible, for everybody's sakes and not just Silva's.

Remember Baines and Jags are likely in their final season wearing a blue shirt, Coleman may not be as suited to Silva's tactics but I suspect that yesterday's below par performance from him was probably down to that heavy challenge he received when he should have won a penalty. We do have new players to come into the team at some point and we have to hope that they are capable of improving the defence.

Many of us have become accustomed to finding fault and highlighting the flaws in our players and team, but I honestly believe that if Silva doesn't put us on the right road in the next twelve months we will probably have to give up hope of Everton ever achieving anything of note in the next few years.

The sooner the decision is taken about the new stadium and the quicker that Silva solves the defensive conundrum whilst maintaining the attacking intent the better.

Couldn't make it up.

Last season the issue was goals, not conceded but our dreadful lack of scoring them ourselves. This season we've scored 2 in each of the 3 matches, 4 of those goals while playing with 10 men. No changes, eh?

And please try to answer this, but think about it before you start typing: Why do you think Brands and Silva signed 3 defensive players this Summer? Maybe because they all knew that the players that were already here are not good enough, no?

Steavey "What is the point of spending huge amounts of cash on players when Everton cannot go away to the top 6 and get a draw or win".

As we haven't yet played any of the top 6 this season, methinks you're dabbling with a bit of fortune telling.

1. We are unbeaten after 3 games.
2. We have scored (twice) in each of those games.
3. We have won our [1] home game, and drawn our [2] away games – usually considered a recipe for success.

A point at Wolves should be considered hard-won and valuable – ask Pep Guardiola!

A point at Bournemouth, likewise; they were top of the league, for a few hours, on Saturday.

We are still very much a work in progress, but even the worst Silva-doubters (of which, there are, alarmingly many) must surely admit, that progress IS being made.

The captaincy is getting thrown about a bit mind.

Who should be our long-term captain?

Obviously not Jagielka or Baines.

Gomes looks a bit of a snarler, it can't be any worse.

It's a trade-off and in the end it comes down to results; if the team is not good enough overall to play that way, you have to sign better players or change back to play more defensive.

All defenders make mistakes; you're going to get them every week if you want to be hyper-critical, it ain't easy.

We have begged for that for years. One Martinez season aside we've scrapped of crumbs of joy.

Football like this is current in fashion the attack is dominating the defence and the way the game is referees is also reflected in that.

Whilst defensive improvement is necessary, Silva firmly believes that attacking a side a scoring nullifies defending like ‘the 300' against wave after wave.

I happen to agree with his view, had Everton taken their chances in the first three games we would not be as occupied with the defending.

As for Saturday I think he did stop attacking Bournemouth when we scored the second. Whether the team needed a breather or as I believe he failed to make changes to keep the momentum going and kill Bournemouth off.

They did have 10 too. But overall you can see the changes, see the style, players in the main enjoy executing the game plan.

Despite the drama, enjoyed nearly every minute of that game.

I think you can have it both ways. Unfortunately, and I hate to say this, but our close neighbours seem to be getting awfully close to proving that. Admittedly it has cost them millions but scarily after a few seasons they seem to be getting that balance.

My team were Catterick's early '60s team which were balanced and later obviously the Kendall '80s lads.

Silva needs to be given time and Moshiri's resources, however, although he has got 100% more from the players who were a disgrace last season attacking wise, he appears to have neglected the defensive side with last season's players.

Once his signings replace the old guard, hopefully we will see more of this balance but up to today we really are a shambles at the back.

He has 11 back for all corners, then employs zonal marking, wtf... leave and Richarlison on the half-way line for corners, at least it's saying "Yeah I'm defensive, but I'll destroy you from corners," but no he just says “I'm scared, negative and defensive even from corners with these two in my team”

Soz, just at corners I see a defensive coach, so does everyone else...

Guardiola has all 11 men back when defending corners. Such a negative, scared manager is that Pep.

They also employ zonal marking. All 11 men back, zonal marking, Pep Guardiola. WTF indeed Jeff.

What we desperately need as Andy C mentions in the piece linked below is a real leader on the pitch, someone who can make the right calls with the blessing of the boss.

A Real Captain

The idea is to quickly transition into attack, playing the ball in front of the player so he can run onto it instead of having to stand and fight off1-2 defenders. The idea is to create confusion for the team now on defense because they see multiple players getting forward, can't plan for which player will receive the ball, and can't just wrestle with an isolated man up top to send a headed ball right back toward our goal.

It was a mistake from Baines but many times has he come around the back in a similar position and cleared danger, the goal from the corner is another poor one to concede, Davies constantly loses his man at corners ends up standing in space whilst it's being put in the net. He has to learn to be stronger at set pieces Silva may be playing Zonal but men still need picking up close to goal, it's just unfortunate that a loss of concentration at set pieces is costing us.

Scoring goals... players to come in... lots to be positive about for the season ahead.

He is so slow that he is getting exploit in counter attacks very often. He is a traditional CB who is very good in the air. But that's about the only thing he is good at. Soccer has changed and CB has evolved. If he gets beaten by average strikers so easily, imaging how Lukaku, Aguero, etc will exploit him.

I hope Holgate, Mina, and Zouma can carry us this season. Relying on Keane and Jags will drag our level down for sure.

City do bring eleven men back when defending a corner; Liverpool do it as well. When they do it, it is an attacking tactic; when we do it, it is defensive. We are informed, using coaching manual phrases, "Ah but City are on the half turn when defending corners" etc etc.

Victor, I agree re Keane. He will not be in the first choice eleven when we have a fully fit squad.

Can you lip read as you seem to know everything Silva says, I hope he covers his mouth when he talks about you. So that's Silva AND Guardiola not good enough for Everton are you one that wanted a really strong manager like Pellegrini or Dyche able to prop up the league.

Can I cast your minds back to last season. It's virtually the same players, but Jesus, boys, if you can't see the improvement what are you looking at? And however good a coach Silva may be, he doesn't have a magic wand. He can't put it ALL right in a matter of a pre-season, carried out without the new signings, and 3 games into a season. Some of you may need to adjust your expectations or you will be constantly disappointed.

There was soooo much work to do with this squad and there is a marked improvement in the first 3 games. Shouldn't EVERY Blue give credit where credit is due and not be so quick to criticise your own team and manager?

To those who have been quick on the trigger to launch critical attacks based on the first 3 games... look up the definition of Support and see if you fit the bill. If you don't, may I suggest that you don't call yourself an Evertonian.

Well said. Great post.

I hope there is no sudden drop off with suspension to our key player and a fair few other injuries. It will be interesting to see how we do without Ricy.
Silva played a huge part in bringing Ricy and a few other highly rated players to the club which should ensure we challenge upwards and not be in a relegation battle.

However Silva also needs to improve and adapt to the situation on the pitch otherwise he's simply another gung-ho Martinez manager who refuses to kill off games.

After the last few years I'm more than happy with that. I'll take goals, entertainment and top 10 now. However more than a few fans wrongly think we should be title contenders which I find ridiculous.

We all need to stick together and keep improving, players, coaches, fans and owners. When the tough times come we need to show support and encouragement and not return to the negative / silence of the last few years because we could easily go back to a Sam manager and kill all hope and excitement of what could be.

Other Points:
Did we appeal Jags red card, why not?
Ricy was stupid but we should argue our case of provocation and why was Smith not yellow carded?
We need to be pushy and challenge off the field decisions as well as on it.
Holgate has done well. He needs a top CB partner and that is not Keane if playing a high line.

Zonal marking seems to be causing serious problems at set pieces, and of course Silva may adjust it or get the team to make it work.

Many will feel that, and I'm one of them, the manager should have made his substitutions much earlier than he did.

Both valid points, I would contend, seems to me it is fair to point them out.

Asking for patience and pointing out all the good things being seen so far is one thing. Telling people to look up the definition of support and that they can't call themselves Evertonians? Okay. Sorry, this site must have been filled with reds all last season then as we all saw plenty to complain about.

I didn't state that supporters should never criticise. Do you think a proper supporter can justify launching very negative criticism at a team with a new manager only a matter of weeks in, new players only just signed, & generally a whole new set up at the club, as fair and decent? If so, I wouldn't like to be in any team under your stewardship.

Should a new manager & his players, existing & new, not be given at least a fair crack before their own supporters start raining criticisms down at them?

I believe that CONSTRUCTIVE criticism can be used in a positive way. I don't believe that slating players & manager before they have even been given a fair chance is just, or advantageous to anyone connected to the club.

It is a fact that however well Holgate and Keane have played against Wolves, Southampton and Bournemouth, they will struggle against the likes of Man City, Chelsea, RS etc. so the sooner Zouma and Mina are 'bedded in' the better for our prospects of handling the threats which will come from the 'Top 6' clubs.

If you scroll up or see other threads you'll see that I've been saying repeatedly that the signs are positive, this season is about implementing change and that patience is the most important thing for us this year. Also have repeatedly told others that the manager hasn't even had a chance to bring in the new defenders, which he and Brands obviously targeted because they knew that the defense needs a massive overhaul.

My issue is throwing in the line about people not being Evertonians. Put that to rest. Disagree with them, correct the hyperbole and overreaction, etc. But just leave the stuff about being a proper supporter and Evertonian out of it.

Sorry girl, but that's just nonsense. You want every blue to give "credit where credit is due" after just three games, but you think those who criticise the shortcoming after the same three games shouldn't call themselves Evertonians ? You are joking right ? do you see any flaws in that logic ?

From where I stand Silva has been given all the credit in the world for the good work he does, I've given hi a fair bit myself, but that does not and will not exonerate him for errors which cost us games ?

I know a few would on here will lap up what you said, I could even name them, but when the day arrives where football managers can not be criticised, football debate dies. When football debate dies Football dies too.

This manager may have only been in charge for three league games, but he had another 7-8 pre season games to hammer home his message. For every corner we have faced - every single corner - This manager has dragged the entire team back into our own box. Not the worst crime . . But do you not find it slightly alarming that our eleven players are repeatedly beaten to the ball, by the 5-6 opponents. Near post, far post, under the crossbar, edge of the box. It doesn't matter where it goes our players consistently come second.

We know there has been an improvement certainly in attitude and ambition, but that doesn't mask EVERYTHING.
Much as you may want people to ignore the alarming situation we face with every corner conceded, there are thousands of Evertonians who wont, they see it as their right, their duty to flag it up

If you feel you want to give absolute credit to Silva and ignore our problems that's your choice, but you are fooling yourself by trying to come across all superior to the guy who like to call a spade a spade. The very fact that they are taking the time to post on this website gives them the right to call themselves Evertonians.

Errr he hasn't made any errors that cost us games.
A win and two draws. Unless you want to score points by including friendlies.

" But do you not find it slightly alarming that our eleven players are repeatedly beaten to the ball, by the 5-6 opponents. Near post, far post, under the crossbar, edge of the box"

Using that tactical awareness are you suggesting our opponents leave 4/5 men not involved in the corner?

We have eleven in the box they have 4/5 in between the halfway line and the box?

Even those "zonal advocates" who hilariously spent Saturday evening arguing who should be marking who...

The defensive problems were so bad these last seasons, that I think most of us can live with those taking some more time to fix. Unless Silva seems like he's doing too good a job at the other end of the pitch, so that we want a walking-on-water solution in defense as a natural follow-up!... Oh, well... ;D

As I have said repeatedly, the man cannot waive a magic wand & all problems in attack, midfield & defence can all be cured in a few weeks. Mistakes have been made all over the pitch, not just defence, and at no point in the proceedings have I said, that here in fluffy land, I think everything is perfect.

But, having said that, there are some very promising indicators. On all the coaching & management courses I have attended for both sport & business, no tutor has ever given advice along the lines of, 'As soon as you see one of your team not doing as you think they should, give them a right ol' slagging off immediately & blame them for whatever went wrong.'

I have learned through experience that most people respond better to praise than criticism, and that people should be given time to learn & improve before you wade in with – that's all your fault!!

As another poster has pointed out, Silva has not even had the luxury of the same defenders available to him in 3 games, nor in pre-season as I understand it. So how you expect a perfect performance in these circumstances is beyond me.

We are all entitled to an opinion as to how & why we think things should be done differently on the pitch but, once again, to say that Silva has cost us games, is a very flawed logic, in my view and negative premature criticism.

Once again, as clearly, you have read things between the lines I did not write, I am asking that our supporters give the man a chance. Not sure which part of that you find so distasteful?

Silva has consistently and persistently pulled all his players back, it doesn't matter who plays, he still does it. You'll know what they say about the guy who keeps doing the same thing and expecting different results.

I'm happy about things in general this season. I have enjoyed all of the games, but I will continue to criticise the way he sets up his troops for dead ball situations, I felt strongly enough to pen a piece about it on here before Saturday's games.

I don't subscribe to the belief that you can only praise or criticise a manager. Nor that praise can be offered now, but criticism needs to wait a few months. These guys get paid a lot of money and, until they actually win something, every aspect of their management is fair game

Then I applaud your call for patience with our new man. It seems not everyone is prepared to watch and wait before wading in with the boot. I just feel that we, ie, Everton, get a bad deal from many of the pundits & media etc, and it seems really unfair on our new manager and our players who are clearly trying to learn and implement sweeping changes in what they are being asked to do, that they are slated on here by people after a very very very short time.

I suppose with hindsight, I should just let all the negative souls have their say and not waste my energy or time with a post. Lesson learned. We all learn better from our own mistakes do we not?

Bossy boots here again. I have just read your post about Silva again and would say that you just expressed an opinion or perhaps a concern as opposed to slating or outright criticism and laying blame.

My comment was not intended for posts such as yours. I hope that you accept my apology. No offence intended. Oh and yes, you have my permission to make constructive criticism without putting your status as an Evertonian at risk. :-) Bossy? Me? Never!!

Get subs in at 60-70 mins, or don't bother!

They have just decided to take time out from their Premier League management career to moan about young kids who are still learning and have had to deal with at least 3 entirely different styles of football in the last couple of years, or players who keep receiving the plaudits of ex-professionals, the media and most other blues fans.

Of course, some constructive criticism is always allowable but in this case somewhat premature surely? Don't rise to the provocateurs who love to cause an argument at the slightest excuse.

From what I have seen (every minute of every game) we are hopeless at defending corners and perhaps the manager has been late with his substitutions, but what I like about this season is that I haven't had that feeling of dread going into games.

That is because our manager has brought about two significant changes to the squad:

1. He has removed the defeatist attitude when things go against us.

2. We are likely to score more than one goal in any game home or away and from several sources.

I do think Mina and Digne will make a big difference to our defence when they become established so until that time we just have to keep scoring goals.

That said if by next year we're still conceding soft goals as per the last three matches I'll be posing questions again, of the players, the manager, or both, but as you and many other more sanguine souls have stated Silva needs time and we need to be patient.

And for what it's worth I read your "Evertonian" comments as no way derogatory to other posters. I'm sure you meant that Koppites might be expected to indulge themselves with such immediate criticism of Silva, whereas our fans should support until there's good reason to criticise which after three matches, five points, and a welter of new arrivals to embed is a long way off yet.

Some teams defend in numbers in the opposing half, which is called pressing, others defend in numbers in their own half which is called dropping off. If you don't defend in numbers, you are vulnerable.

You have systematically defended crap manager after crap manager all in the name of "positivity" and you have always been quick to round on anyone who doesn't clap so readilly. Silva has not just started defending corners like this, He's been doing it for years. So please, enough of this "new to the job" nonsense.

In this case IMO, Karen WAS the "provocateur" — I did not see any overly negative posts until she challenged the Evertonian credentials of others for voicing concerns. I personally have only said complimentary things about this new manager until now - see post 44.

Karen knows her stuff. Her posts are noticeable because she is one of the very few women to post on this site. She's as sharp as a knife... But I can't agree that people who criticise the manager should not call themselves Evertonians. just as I don't feel it would be right to tell those who have offered unquestioning blind faith the previous duds not to consider themselves blue.

It's fair to take the short period of time Silva has been here into consideration, but inherently wrong to keep silent about things which trouble you. Half the fan base voiced their concerns before the last fella had even taken charge of a game and rightly so... Should they not consider themselves Evertonians?

I'm made up with this guy. He has restored my faith in the game (yes he's done that after just THREE games) but when the day arrives when I feel an Everton manager is above criticism, that'll be the day I stop calling myself an Evertonian.

Equally how people present positive reactions can annoy others.

We will all lean one way or another for all sorts of reasons and that is surely good.

What is worrying is that people get singled out for their track record. That turns a simple footy site into something approaching political debate.

And hands up, I have been guilty of that now and then!

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Where have I consistently defended "crap manager after crap manager"? I loathed Martinez, hated Koeman's aloofness and thought that it was a correct decision to sack Allardyce (even though he did the job that he was paid to do). No doubt, you'll start trawling through ToffeeWeb to find some quote that proves that I belong to the "happy clapper" tribe and have "rounded on anyone who doesn't clap so readily". I am not and I doubt you'll find any.

Karen certainly does "know her stuff" and is "as sharp as a knife". Yes, she is - why then do you start one of your replies with "Sorry girl, but that's just nonsense." Have you any idea how that sounds"? There's no "in my opinion" sentiment in there.

Finally "Half the fan base voiced their concerns before the last fella had even taken charge of a game and rightly so... Should they not consider themselves Evertonians?" Why are you directing this at me? Smokescreen again, Darren. Have I ever queried any Evertonian's credibility? Nobody is denying you your right to criticise an Everton manager. I'm sure it won't be long before you have a go at Silva!

I do admit however in the past to frequently calling out your opinionated delivery style, Darren, which I frequently find patronising to others. You could start an argument in an empty dressing room.

The condescension to fellow posters who disagree with certain posters opinion is an undeniable problem on TW. It inevitably provokes reaction.

11 men behind the ball for a corner, or 11 men behind the ball for 90 odd minutes like under Sam's 'leadership.' :-) I know which I prefer.

Happy to hear that you have some positive things to say about Silva. I haven't been on the edge of my seat watchin' us play for some time. But, it's starting to happen!!

I think we've both made a mistake on this thread. I've reacted badly to the early criticism & fickle finger of blame being pointed (not opinions) about the Manager & team.

My comments on being Evertonians, was wrong. I know that now. Your posts have brought a song to mind... He's misstra know it all. :-). I like posts that make me think & challenge what I think I know. So let's call it quits and return another day to debate more stuff. :-)

Dave A is right. I would give you a big hug. I firmly believe all is fair in love and debate and just because I disagreed with you in one post doesn't mean we won't agree tomorrow.

Let's hope next time we debate its because we disagree on who scored the best Everton goal in a big win.

Marco Silva is a name on Manchester United's radar to replace Jose Mourinho'
Marco Silva is a name on the radar of Manchster United to replace Jose Mourinho should the Portugese boss leave, according to a report.

The Independent have claimed that Everton's manager could be one to move to Old Trafford if Mourinho does go.

Can't find this story anywhere in The Independent though.

I don't believe it by the way. My post above sounds like I think it's true. 😕😕😕

I despair at whats happened to the Echo, it seems they are now for some unknown reason trying to wind up the Blue half of Merseyside. When most people knew Allardyce was on his way they were talking about his pre season plans. They keep mentioning that Leipzig are favourite to get Lookman in this window. Yet when Barca were pursuing Courtinho they played it down, and said he is staying at Liverpool.

I get the feeling that they are begining to realize that the blue half has stopped buying the Echo, as most of its stories are about Liverpool.

That's interesting. I suspect the main reason for that was because of the issues with residents, noise etc.

I don't think Bramley-Moore Dock should have that issue, should it ever be used for such events.

They would shit themselves in the accounts dept!

Anyway, aside from football, it is just a cheap tabloid now compared to a great local paper it once was.

"... so much so that his name is being floated for an England recall for the upcoming transfer window."

And we get wound up by this shite!

Or may try and create one and send for all to print themselves.

Would be funny.

I think it is more likely to be Zidane for United when Maureen is sacked. I stopped reading the Echo years ago. I couldn't continue to subscribe to the Red's fan magazine any longer.

ps: Darren #156 A big hug right back 'atcha :-) I look forward to debating the best goal of the season and hope there are many in contention. Ciao for now.

I effing love ToffeeWeb.

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