Fans inspire solid Blues defence of Sigurdsson's penalty

I think Carlo is trying to get himself fired.

As for that subs bench, for fuck's sake! At least Gordon has made the squad.

What I can't understand is Gomes played well when he came on against Burnley and he picks Sigurdsson! Some inspirational captain... the invisible man.

This is a match crying out for pace, energy and dynamism to try and match Chelsea around the park.

Sigurdsson does work quite hard, to be fair, but he's one-paced and seldom shows for the ball in the way you want your playmaker to.

4231

Godfrey is being hung out to dry playing left-back.

I would have played Gomes instead of Sigurdsson. We would struggle with a full-strength side against these – nevermind a weakened line-up!

Stranger things have happened, coyb.

We must have been watching a different Gomes. The one I saw was the slow one with the beard. And he didn't do diddlysquat.

Gomes has most definitely played very well in the last two games.. that's my opinion as well.

Sigurdsson is fuckin useless. That's also my take.

However Bernard had a great cameo and got dropped.

My thoughts on Ancelotti are dropping like stone.

I agree Gomes did quite well last time. His end product was dodgy as usual, but I thought our build up play (such that it was) improved when he came on.

I just don't understand why Nkounkou can't even get into what is a second-rate squad.

I am desperate to see us win, or even to perform well, but with Sigurdsson in there supplementing the midfield I cannot for the life of me see how we can compete with Chelsea. We needed a team to fight off their midfield with some real aggression to stand a chance. Then you never know we could pick them off with a goal from a set piece or one bit of great play.

The Hendrix version?

Whilst I am inclined to agree, we're entitled to feel a little pissed off if our world class new signings are indeed overwhelmed in the way you describe. Cos, if they are, something is not right with the training. These are good players.

Prove us wrong, Gylf... please.

I think it's 4-2-3-1 not 5 at the back.

I've got a Zoom catchup with my pals tonight (stupidly thought that kick-off was 5.30pm!) so I will miss it. I'm actually pleased in a way; can't hack watching them at the moment and fear a pasting.

Cool penalty from Sigurdsson.

Richarlison misses the game and becomes a liability when he's throwing a fit after losing the ball or a tackle. His temperament needs working on.

Formation looks a bit different to a 4-3-3... Iwobi and Richarlison playing much wider more like a 4-4-2 with Gylfi moving between attack and midfield. Balance looks pretty good to me. First time I've said that it in a while.

Don't know how Pickford is getting criticism on the half time show. It was a very clear foul on Mina that caused the collision.

Don't think Gylfi has put a foot wrong. Which will disappoint some.

A terrific performance to a man in front of our fans, huge!!!

Players I don't want in our starting line up played their hearts out.

No point analysing it anymore than that.

I'm away to eat a hat. Enjoy the weekend boys and girls.

Yeeeeeeeeeeooooow.

Everyone played well. No weak links and we actually competed!

And the fans made a massive difference

Jon Moss still a prick but we won in spite of him

Well done the Blues!

And boy after reading most of the pre-kickoff old guff (or bollocks, if you like) posted on here, I'm happy I held off posting myself, because it all looks pretty clueless now!

Great performance from the whole team, a manful effort from every one of them. The crowd did great too, made a real difference at times.

The guy hoping that the crowd would boo Sigurdsson, our captain and goalscorer — hang your fucking head in shame. Sheer idiocy.

The manager set them up to be difficult to break down and the tactics resulted in 3 points.

We rode our luck at times but overall, I consider that a fair result.

So proud of my team tonight: thoroughly deserved. Brilliant boys, can't wait to get back to my seat with a full house.

Well deserved win and well done to Siggy!

A great win and well done to the lads. I hope this marks a turn of form for Sigurdsson who had his best game in a long time. He will go to bed a happy man tonight. The team put in a great a shift and I thought we deserved the win.

More of the same please.

They are far from mugs and to be fair, except for 2 shots on goal, they never got a look in.

Deffo signs Carlo is getting there with this team and will only improve it before the start of next season.

Every player stood up tonight, what an effort from the players, but a big pat on the back to the supporters in the ground tonight.

Maybe as a No 10 in a 4-4-1?

Well done, Everton – that effort is the least we deserve.

I'll have a slice!

Sigurdsson was very good, apart from the penalty, worked hard and was missed when he went off. Holgate and Godfrey were excellent, couple of good players there.

Not having a go at anyone, simply because the result was very important, and we kept at it all night, kept them out and could have had a couple more goals, but a vital 1-0 win was more than I could ask for or expect.

Everyone had a strong game including Sigurdsson. The first goal was vital as it allowed us to sit tight.

Clean sheet, fans back and a win.

Fantastico!!!

Now it was the wrong score but I felt we would win tonight., Carlo is too good for the run we were on.

Well done, Carlo. I for one love having you here.

Great result and well deserved. Godfrey the stand out for me but will give a special mention to Sigurdsson and Pickford, who I often berate, but they did well tonight.

Quite rightly, Ancelotti has been slagged for some if his formations and tactics; fortunately tonight he got it spot-on.

Same same during the week...

I hope this provides some positives to all Evertonians, tonight.

Resolve, and belief, and concentration and effort, superb, tonight.

But this is a solid start, can the squad keep the smell, and let it linger into Wednesday?

Fekkn hope so.

The Ghost of Chrimbo, past but it shows that the crowd, and belief, and determination, can beat any team.

Chelsea, really can’t argue, and I’ve had some txts, off Chelsea fans, since the final whistle, with no complaints, with the result.

Now to build the putty, and make it strong...so no more cracks...

I enjoyed the game, can't wait to watch us on Match of the Day.

All played well, or at least put a shift in, but both Holgate and Godfrey were great for me, playing with energy and grit.

If l slagged off the team the way that was done in those early posts, l'd not be on here again for a while. Silly people...

Allan has got fantastic intelligence on the ball I thought he ran the midfield today.

I'm made-up... for a change!

"Carlo is trying to get the sack."
"Sigurdsson must be playing left wingback"

You look like a bunch of sad sacks now. Wait for the game to be played before you go all know-it-all. Some absolutely shocking comments.

Disastrous, sack the manager

As said above, it was an Italian masterclass. Happy for Carlo. Give him time and I am sure he will build a team that we can all be proud of.

I must mention Godfrey and Iwobi, they are looking better and better every game.

He’s decent.

Not a Classic by any any stretch of the imagination, but nevertheless a confidence builder which should put us in good stead on Wednesday against Leicester.

Even a point there and a win on Saturday against Arsenal, should put us in a healthy position over the Xmas period. Well played blues to a man, and as a team.

We have all seen underdogs win and seen us do it plenty. Minnows riding a cup run etc.

If the managers decisions turn out to be wrong, after the final whistle is the time to discuss it.

Today he got it right thank god.

Godfrey is going to be a star indeed: that run in the second-half promises a lot. Iwobi excellent and deserves proper praise too.

All very pleasing. But we must do it again and again and again.

Well done also to the fans for making their voices heard, especially in the final minutes. I would be surprised if any left early.

We have not had that from the past games and supporters have rightly had a go at the team, me included.

Tonight we put in a performance and I could not fault any single player.

More of that please Everton. Well done the supporters in the ground.

I was made up with Keane, anticipating and defending the first ball, Iwobi, for showing the type of effort and industry, that will turn him into a proper player, the defensive shape of the team out of possession, that’s been missing for ages, and Ben Godfrey, who I thought was absolutely brilliant.

Made up with the effort, because you don’t win nothing without it, and this victory should send a lot of confidence right throughout the squad!

A solid defence can really help us kick on especially if Richy can find his goal scoring touch.

Credit to Pickford who has quietly played himself into form from a position I thought was beyond him!

Only slight frustration for me, and I’m being greedy but a point v Leeds and a win v Burnley (not unrealistic!!) has us comfortably in the top 4.

Ask him to influence a game and dominate inferior opponents, he’ll screw you over.

Chuffed Holgate is back. Digne has serious competition from Godfrey when we tactically need to play a complete defensive set up?

So glad the fans got to see a win, really made up for them missing out on seeing James in action tonight with a win over Chelski.

The balance and shape was kept, with the minimum of offensive play, and if Everton, can win games with so little possession, but create several chances then, it’s some thing to work on.

Hope, eternal, and genuine optimism for the next match.

Now to build and maintain this tempo for Leicester away, next Wednesday.

Special word to Pickford, who after looking hapless at the start of the season has really improved since his being dropped.

Holgate looked to be returning to his best too, which could be huge for our season.

Thought Allan was great, and DCL again needs praise for once again winning us the game. His never give up attitude won that penalty.

And Iwobi, my MOTM. Thought he was excellent.

Having made a flippant remark about the process of getting in to the stadium, I have to congratulate all the stewards and police who carried out their duties with good humour.

Spending an hour in a quiet ground pre-match was quite emotional, providing an opportunity to reflect upon the history of the place, and family members and friends no longer with us who loved being there. The drumroll for Z-Cars brought a tingle to the spine.

I really enjoyed the game. Chelsea were good, but not ruthless, and were unlucky not to score, but we were very tenacious. I thought we were flagging a bit on the hour, but the players dug deep. I was particularly impressed with the two full backs, who were excellent defensively and have a bit of attitude about them. Michael Keane was probably Man of the Match, Allan brought back memories of Peter Reid. The team looked comfortable within the system.

A couple of gripes. We don’t need players arguing about who is going to take a penalty. It happened twice. After the non-penalty Richarlison simply stopped playing for 10 minutes, it was pathetic.

And Jon Moss is a poor referee.

All in all, a cracking day, it was great to be part of a crowd roaring home the team in the last few minutes.

I knew “emotional” was coming into your vocabulary, because Goodison Pk, does that to us, so I’m glad you’ve had a great day👍

The back 4 were immense, particularly Godfrey, what a player we’ve got there and his 2nd half run left everyone miles behind. All he needs is a left foot.

Allan and Doucoure worked hard and Siggy kept Konte quiet, no, mean feat.

All we need is for Richarlison to come out of his slump, both physically and mentally. The lads sulking doesn’t do him any favours.

It’s been a long day, in a long month, year etc, but if consistency, shape and communication, is the measurement, then, this is the best game in my view this season, all, player and opposition, matters considered.

But this is the real start..

The momentum, and good traits must be every game, and not like the weather..

Can this be done?

It hard though not to be of the opinion that players raise their games against Top Six sides. Hard to believe this is the team that could not have put in better performances against lower table Clubs.

That’s the question, for football matters Everton. Last week, we should have beaten Burnley..

This season, the League is wide open, and if EFC, don't qualify for Europe by any means, then questions, will be asked.

I still believe this season, that EFC, will get into Europe.

We played a 451 mate with Siggy off DCL. It was never a 433

A bit anxious on Allan & Doucoure both on one match suspension alert

Richie seems lethargic last few games...hope he can regain his form soon...

COYB

Mina & Keane looked imperious, sat on the 18yard line fighting Giroud and lumping away crosses.

Allan & Doucure looked athletic and covered ground but that was condensed into their own half, no trouble.

Sigurdsson wasn’t asked to do anything other than fire in set pieces and run hard.

That plan is superb as a one off, especially as we needed to stop the rot. Ask the same players to expand in any way and you’ll get Burnley away. Go a goal down and it’s curtains.

Despite the limitations some players did enhance their reputations. Calvert-Lewin, and Godfrey were superb.

With Doucore, Allen, James, and Godfrey we've added real quality. Need patience for Carlo to develop them and the rest into a real unit. I believe we'll get better as the season continues.

And I think it's about time we acknowledge that in Keane we have a first-rate defender.

And, respect to the Evertonians at the game for applauding the taking of the knee by the players.

And Graham @ 75...'the trick is to fit Rodriguez into that 11 and level of performance' is spot on.

You can only beat what is put in front of you though and Chelsea are no mugs - not the real deal yet - but no mugs. They remind me of the 1970 Chelsea and their glory may lay in cup competitions for this season and the next until Lampard, if he can, polishes them up.

Referee Moss let them get away with murder.

Richarlson needs to stop sulking.

That's about it, bring on Leicester.

Allen and dacoure covered the whole pitch, Sigurdsson sat on Kante.

Despite their limitations is a lazy expression Messy, Ronaldo and neymar have limitations like everyone else.

Reality is Ancelotti got one over on Lampard and his very expensive squad with our injury hit team. Give credit when it is due after sticking the knife in when things aren't going well.

I don’t know but maybe this Carlo Ancelloti fella knows a bit more about (a) football and (b) his players than your average ToffeeWebber??

Carlo got it just right indeed.

In the same way the anti-Carlo nonsense of the last 4 weeks has been over board it’s important, for me, to state that performance and than that side is a one off, for balance you understand. It’s unsustainable to play that way, and if we go a goal behind that side cannot make the running.

We earned the win through the commitment and effort, but we were 4-5-1 or 4-4-1-1 however isolated Calvert-Lewin for long stretches. We mended and made do.
That back four was really really compact, against any side we need to make the running Mina & Keane will struggle with the quicker full backs up the pitch.

An excellent win but let’s see it for what is was.

Delighted also to eat humble pie and acknowledge that Sigurdsson had a good game (this formation suits him best). Pickford's save to tip to divert James's shot onto the post was superb.

Big congratulations to our Holgate and Godfrey covering the full back positions. I'd still prefer to see Nkounkou given a chance but they both did a sterling job. I reckon he will go with 4-2-3-1 against Leicester, so the magician might be on the bench.

Some really good performance all round today. Hard to give a low mark as it was a great team performance! High riding Chelsea! Honestly, I was expecting a 3 or 4 nil loss.

Clean sheet to boot. What a strange world we live in at present!!??

Now build on this going into Wedesdays game against Leicester and putting in a similar performance.

So pleased to see 2000 fans back in, we are most certainly the 12th man at Goodison.

I've criticised Carlo's tactics and selections in recent weeks but remain a fan. He got it right tonight but the players deserve credit too for getting stuck in.

Richarlison bothers me hugely. Looks class until he has to shoot, sulks, he will be angling after a move in the summer but can't see anyone paying what we will want unless he starts scoring and assisting more than he is. Time he started taking out his frustration on the opposition instead of sulking.

Great performance and long may it continue.

Carlo's Italian-style tactics pay off as confirmed in the post-match interview. Score early, defend well and stretch them with counterattacks. Possession doesn't matter.

Have you noticed you don't see many 6-0s in Serie A?

The difference vs Chelsea being a better defence.

Mike #61, Nail on head, after a defeat you can understand posts being negative but before the match even starts, "supporters"?? more or less willing the team to lose is disgraceful.

You are not the only one who has slagged Soggy. He did deserve it, but in this match he did up his game.

I agree , Everton will be in the Top six in the end of the season.

The main barrier to progress is against Teams who set up shop and flood midfield. Ancelotti really has to crack that one.

Godfrey looks like he's a serious natural athlete with a mind to match. Ditto Holgate and the other young defensive guns we've got waiting in the wings.

Always start with the defence.

Carlo and the team performed very well yesterday, Carlo picked a team and a formation that the players could understand and play to; they did what they should have been doing for the last month, have a go for 90 minutes and just do their honest best. They did that well and are getting plenty of praise for doing so. Let's see them keep it up on Wednesday at Leicester and carry on doing it. Win, lose or draw, there will not be many complaints.

The criticism Carlo and his squad have received before yesterday's game have mostly been deserved, calling for Carlo's head not included, and there is no need for any humble pie to be ate, in my opinion.

Do you think the players and Carlo will eat any humble pie for the last month? Sigurdsson played well yesterday, very well, do you think he will eat any for the dozens of mediocre games he has served up since he came? Mina and Keane, will they eat any? Iwobi, Pickford, will they have a go? And Richarlison, a few pints of maturity will go down well with him, 23 years of age and still acting like a 7-year-old spoiled brat, and that includes yesterday's game for him.

Humble pie? I wish I sold it. I'd make a mint selling it to the players, managers and coaches plus boardroom members for the mess I've had to watch over the last few years.

Carlo is right when he says Calvert-Lewin will need a rest at some stage, as will Richarlison. Talking about finishing in the top six is possible, but only if we buy or loan more goalscorers in January.

I think the stats showed Chelsea didn't have a shot on target after the 23rd minute of the game. To a man, the players carried out their instructions to the letter. For me, Allan was our MotM but there were others who also rival him for that award.

I, like many, have been critical of both Mina and Keane at times but, against Burnley, they completely nullified their aerial threat and neither could be faulted for Burnley's goal. Yesterday, both were outstanding again and I am quickly revising my opinion of Keane, who I think is becoming a central part to Carlo's plans.

I also think they have signed a little gem in Godfrey. Considering the lad has yet to play in his preferred position, he has acquitted himself really well. Also, Holgate showed what an excellent defender he is. Sigurdsson gave his best display of the season and closed down a lot from the front with both Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison doing like wise.

Richarlison not yet anywhere near his best since his suspension but the lad gives 100% both in attack and defense. Calvert-Lewin put in a sterling show yet again and was more than Chelsea could cope with and did brilliantly to win the penalty.

I am sure Carlo will, where possible, stick to 4-3-3 and, with Seamus coming back from injury, it will be interesting to see if he brings him back for the next game. Also, the same applies with James: will he bring him back for the next game if he is over his injury? I hope both are on the bench for the next game as the 11 who played yesterday deserve to start the next game.

- Back 4 settled everyone down.

- Nothing wrong with a bit of long ball.

- We're never as bad (or good) as you think.

- We can only accommodate one of James, Gomes and Sigurdsson at the same time.

- Over the course of the season, we should be in touch with 6th place but there's a bit of luck needed.

Score early, defend well, and stretch them with counterattacks. Possession doesn't matter...

Have you noticed you don't see many 6-0s in Serie A? The difference vs Chelsea being a better defence.

It was the first game I've been able to watch, and really take in, for a while and I was impressed by the all round team discipline which has been lacking for most of the season.

Pickford too – his fingertip save onto the post from James was fantastic – that ball was in otherwise, look at how it still pinged off the inside of the post. His craziest moments are still when he comes off his line, though – if only he could stay there and just save shots.

I would like to see that formation again against Leicester, possibly with James in the Gylfi No 10 role but, if he needs more recovery time, so be it. I wonder how Carlo will manage his squad over the next three games?

I would prefer to see the same starting XI on Wednesday but then with a few rotations at home to Arsenal, who are really very poor this season and don't offer the same threats. Perhaps give Tosun a run and let Calvert-Lewin sit on the bench; Richarlison and one of Allan or Doucoure too? Then everyone back for Man Utd in the cup.

I'm glad the boys came up trumps for you yesterday!

When you open your pie shop, please put me down for a couple of slices for having confidently predicted that Jack Rodwell was going to be a star. And Ademola Lookman. And I had high hopes for Joe Harper!

I can feel a thread coming on here.

It's not about who needs to eat "Humble Pie" and wise after the event is easy and not cleverness. The Pie needed to cater for all the Pickford, Sigurdsson, Calvert-Lewin, Keane, Mina, Davies, Iwobi and Carlo detractors of this season alone should have to be the size of Goodison Park.

It's not about "I am right and you are wrong" – especially after the event, and one game isn't definitive like several losses are not. Ups and downs all the way. That's what makes it our passion.

Deepest condolences, pal. So sorry to hear about your loss.

I had a scare this time last year with my wife and was grateful for the support given to me on these pages.

God be with you, lad, thinking of you at this sad time.

Joe Harper... I could tell you a few stories about Joe, a bit of a lad. And Lookman, well you might not be wrong about him. It seems he has the ability, plenty of it, but has to do the work that will make him more consistent. I won't charge you for the pies though!! Made up for you yesterday, you had a day to remember. I hope you get that ticket for the Spurs game.

Alan (168), David Smallman? Brilliant player for me, all he lacked was that little bit of luck that every player needs. He had terrible bad luck with injuries, that's what stopped him from being a very good player and goalscorer, in my opinion!!

I've said this before, if some of you think you know better then go get your coaching badges and do it. This guy knows his shit, whilst I have criticised recent weeks, we have to remember that he sees these guys train every day. He knows what he is asking them to do and whether he thinks they can do it or not.

I do think some people on here would find something to complain about if we were still unbeaten and top of the league. One or two would still be suggesting Moyes would be better or that wages were too high or that Allan went into the oppositions half three times and it should have only been twice.

I understand after the last few weeks there is a reason to be concerned before the game but I think the negativity was way over the top.

Read some of the comments, if there should be humble pie ever eaten, it should be now by some of them. I'm mature enough to do it when I'm proved wrong. Not sure why others are exempt.

A more conventional line-up and a more solid-looking side is no coincidence.

I'm looking ahead to a week on Wednesday. Our biggest game in, well, a year since we were last in the quarters. I'd love it if we could win the League Cup and finally put our name on some silverware again. Results like yesterday's give me hope we can do just that.

To me, it's not about eating humble pie. The issue is with those who only ever seek to criticise and seem averse to giving praise where praise is due, those who will sneer at posters today who show happiness at a very, very good result.

Just wanted to say thank you to Darren Hind. I never back Everton to win or lose. But, having read his rousing post yesterday, I decided to pile in. Only got 3/1 Darren, but I am feeling remarkably smug this morning. Sometimes supporting Everton is okay.

Normally me and Derek Knox have a post-match moan-in. Derek, it might be different!!

Not sure I agree with your claim, Dan @173, that because "he sees these guys train every day. He knows what he is asking them to do and whether he thinks they can do it or not." Some weeks, Yes... other weeks a resounding No. Which means it's not a particularly valid rule.

But I do like the suggestion about requiring consumption of humble pie... or at least making a public apology for those s confidently predicting defeat on here before their posting privileges are reinstated... Yes!!!

Fortunately Calvert-Lewin again showed what a good player he is and it was his determination which resulted in the award of a penalty. One could say that the win could have been more convincing had Richarlison been more clinical but Chelsea did have their chances too.

It isn't often that all 11 players are on top form in the same game but this was one of those occasions. The injury to James also proved to be fortuitous. I don't see this as a tactical masterclass on the part of Ancellotti, as some do, but who cares – it was a well-earned win.

My last job, before retirement, was in West Lancs and many of the women were Wiganers. Chatting to one, who was in her mid 30s. I asked if she had ever worked anywhere else.

"Yes," she replied, "my first job was in a pie shop in Wigan." I asked if it was a cake shop that sold pies and she said "No, it was a pie shop that just sold pies." lol.

Thus was my introduction to the unique Wigan pie shops.

Godfrey and Holgate are excellent defensive full-backs. It was an old school formation and style of play and proved extremely effective against the form side in the league.

Bloody well done, lads!

Everton, like most clubs have had many players over the years, some who had great promise early on but failed to be consistent enough to merit keeping and were sent packing only to prove that with other clubs they were just the same despite showing some skills on rare occasions.

Sometimes it's down to whoever is managing at the time and which players he likes and dislikes which can conflict with the likes of the fans.

I never was impressed with Leon Osman but many saw him differently, Moyes certainly did.

Having skill is one thing, putting it to good use is another. We have had many young forwards bursting on the scene only to disappear quickly, such as Franny Jeffers and James Vaughan.

We are not quite sure why Nkoukou hasn't been given the nod recently but Carlo must see something that isn't right yet.

Everton, despite the setbacks, are still way up there and if they can perform as a tight unit like they did yesterday for a few more games till the whole squad is available then who knows what the season may bring.

From what I have seen, none of the usual top six are anything like they were last season, although Man City can still pass the ball around better than anyone.

As for Ciaran's 'justification' - 'Anyone gloating about the first 50 comments should really go watch the previous few matches again.'

That could be flipped to read you really could read back all the pre-match threads not just from this season, but for many seasons, and you will invariably find the same names predicting doom and gloom before a ball has been kicked.

It's just what some folk do, and in some cases, it's ALL they do.

What do you think of Dominic Calvert-Lewin's performances this season?

Couldn't agree more. Nothing I can add to that.

He says he never looks at TW, but honestly, he wouldn't look out of place on here, and could be using a pseudonym. For fuck's sake, he even thinks the ballot for the return of fans is fixed!! I always say to him that he's such a miserable bastard that he probably hates himself.

I've been waiting for that tactical masterclass for a while now? And when I heard the super talented Rodriguez was out, I had a feeling we might just play with a lot more shape.

We can't change this formation because it suits us and also gets the best out of a lot of the players imo, and if Rodriguez can match Sigurdsson's work rate, and Iwobi can work like this every game, it won't half get rid of a load of “ifs”!

The first 45 or so alarmist posts were "entertaining" I have to say, albeit bordering on hysterical. I particularly like the one calling on Evertonians to give an Everton player stick. Interesting expression of support.

Also interesting how a result changes opinion. I was a very vocal minority after last week because although the result was disappointing, I didn't think the performance was as bad as some made out. Appreciate we all see things differently and results matter but we didn't actually perform that badly against Burnley if you look through the result.

Good solid performance yesterday and the 4-2-3-1 definitely gave us better shape and balance. Once again (as last week), the defence played well; even better yesterday. We were organised and well-drilled. I also thought the midfield 2 done a great job (again), but Allan in particular was excellent. Sigurdsson's best game in a while, by a mile.

I'm not getting carried away with a good result, it's just that I didn't hit panic last week. As I said last week, beat Chelsea and we are 2 points off them. Yes, 2 points off supposed title challengers in December We are still staying in touch with our target of European football. That's all you want at this stage of the season.

Scratched record "as I said last week" repetition; I will personally judge the manager and team (within reason) towards the end of the season, not at the beginning or middle. Just like I'm judging this performance after the match, not because I disagreed with the manager's selection, and I too have been a Sigurdsson detractor this season. Having spent a lot of time previously defending his qualities, I had finally given up on him. I said last week (there I go again) that I would be glad to never see Fabian Delph wear an Everton shirt again, but if he gets picked again, I'll watch and hope he has a great game.

Wind yer neck in.

The key point I took from the game was the solidity that the defensive-minded full-backs offered. One of the modern fixations with football is that the value of a full-back is often related to their quality of crossing, rather than their defensive ability.

Win the ball and pass it to your midfielder/winger for them to attack. It keeps the back four in line and, on the odd occasions they overlap their midfielder or winger, that player sits in.

Our centre-halves, as limited as some fans think they are, can be left exposed. Their full-backs being so high up the pitch when the opposition counter-attack, they are dragged out of position. It gives us a great base to work from and isn't personnel dependent. If asked, I'm sure Coleman and Digne can rein in their attacking instincts for a while.

And for those patting themselves on the back at spiking the guns of "moaners" would you say this is the end of dithering dolly daydream footy of recent times? Or is this is the usual mid-table formula of pick up a few unexpected points and lose a few expected ones ?

Allan and Doucouré carried on their efficient performances in the middle. Iwobi maintained his form on the right, Richi worked hard on the left, and Calvert-Lewin gave it everything up-front on his own.

Credit to the manager. I thought his team and bench selections were rubbish in the previous 2 games. He got the team selection and game plan absolutely spot on yesterday.

Bill, I'm very sorry to hear about your loss. I know you've been her carer for some time and the void that is left by her passing will be impossible to fill. My sincere condolences, Bill.

After losing Digne and Coleman, he tried 3 at the back and it failed. Rather than revert to what his players knew and were comfortable with, he tried it again and again it failed.

Some players who put a shift in yesterday have been posted missing in past games. Hopefully now Ancelotti will play systems to suit the opposition and the players he has not what he thinks he has.

No doubt Coleman and Digne will slot straight back in when fit but what a great problem he now has with Keane, Mina, Holgate and Godfrey available.

We need Calvert-Lewin to keep playing and we need to feed him from out wide. Making him plough a lone furrow up-front and coming deep all the time to hold the ball up will knacker him.

I'd be tempted to keep that team against Leicester City and not rush Coleman back too soon.

I'm sure I'm not alone in being interested in hearing more of both your impressions of the entire match experience: ticket collection, pre-requisites to attend, processing on arrival, the stewarding, adherence to rules by fans, the vocal support, how much of the Goodison wag comments you can hear in game.

And, of course, your impressions of the new boys on show. It must have been disappointing not to see James among them.

It would offer interesting insight, if you have time to share your thoughts. Thanks.

The idea that all the "naysayers" are wrong about everything because we scraped a 1-0 that included our posts being hit twice is just bollocks.

Ancelotti's decisions and "quiet leadership" we can do without.

I expected last night to be a cold return to Goodison Park, with little to enthuse about with such a small crowd, and a win against Chelsea a big ask.

The arrangements for entry to, and movement within, the stadium were spot on. Fans well outnumbered by staff. All very smooth. I was given a check-in time of 6:15 for an 8:00 pm kick-off! Turned up at 7:00, no queuing, decided to walk around Everton 1 store, then into the game, no problem. The only downside (upside for some) was a text an hour or so before kick-off to say no catering in the ground.

As I posted last night from the game on the Live Forum, and as Peter has posted, it was emotional. Got to say, when the lads came out to start their warm-up, and with the reception they got, I can't describe that lump-in-throat feeling.

Glad to see the 100% support and applause for the taking-of-the-knee and what it represents. Not a single dissenting sound.

Only one guy I saw who had his face mask off and he was quickly told to do the right thing, which he did.

I was surprised how loud the "Carlo Fantastico" and other songs rang out. I can't wait to get back to away games as well.

As for the game itself, Chelsea might have had a lot of the ball but made little impact and few attempts on goal. Carlo had Lampard in his back pocket almost. Overall, a really good team performance. The back line excellent; how quickly Godfrey has settled in. Allan is so strong on the ball and incisive. Iwobi again surprisingly effective. The Richarlison strop was the one low-light.

Getting back to yesterday's result, I am still elated but not exactly buzzing, I think as many have said already that the proof of any recovery will be on Wednesday. Having supported Everton for nearly 60 years, I have seen great results so often followed by poor ones.

Being a realist as well as an optimist, I think we are capable of getting something at Leicester.

I have to say thank you Brent for your description of what it was like for the fan at the game yesterday.

For me, the best part about the 3 points, the best part of the game, was the fans were back. To be able to see them, and HEAR them over the feed yesterday just warmed my heart.

I pray we’re all rounding a corner where that microcosmic beauty of humanity as a whole - the wild goal celebration - returns to packed stadiums all over England and the globe.

Bill Watson -

My best to you and yours and condolences. If it means anything to you at all, they’ll be a Mass said in Florida for your wife. If it doesn’t mean anything to you, it can’t hurt. Cheers and be well.

Sigurdsson getting praise for his performance and rightly so but we must remember some of his inept displays previously. He needs to play like this regularly to be worth his place.

Calvert-Lewin didn't score but got the penalty and has to be the most improved player in the Premier League. He is great to watch even when we don't play well. Just need Richarlison to get his act together and we have a great front 2.

The first step was to enter the ballot for a ticket, which was only open to those living within the Liverpool postcode. I did so and received an email advising me I had been successful. I applied for the ticket online, and received back a receipt. I didn’t fully open the email, so missed the bit telling me I needed to log in to my EFC account to access my ticket. Brent put me right about this on TW, for which I was very grateful.

Next step was to get a COVID test. The only place I could find that would guarantee me a result within 30 hours was at the kop. I wasn’t too happy about going in the there, but needs must. I’ve burned my shoes. Negative result came back within an hour. I had to take the negative result, plus photographic proof of ID to the match.

This process seemed a bit heavy compared to the procedure I followed to obtain a ticket for an FA Trophy match in the afternoon, but there’s no point in railing against something you can’t alter.

So to the match. I had to get there for 6.45pm for the 8.00pm kick off. My ticket was for the Top Balcony, the other lads were in Gwladys Street. There was temporary fencing at the entrance, a vast number of stewards, some of whom were obviously new to the task, but everything was done with good grace and humour. I had to show my COVID result, my passport, have my temperature checked, then was scanned by a steward with a hand-held metal detector, which again seemed a bit much.

Into the ground, again a very dense steward presence, but still good natured. The concourse facilities were not open, but we had received a text advising we could take our own food and drink. I didn’t, but I appreciated the free bottle of water we were all given.

Into the seats, with people sitting in alternate rows and gaps of two seats between one another. Everyone had to wear a mask.

Sitting for an hour on a very cold night could have been grim but I actually enjoyed it. There was an interactive quiz on our phones which was a bit of fun, but mostly I just spent the time reminiscing about good and bad times within the stadium.

The sirens broke the spell, then Z-cars, then a 2,000 voice cheer as the teams came out. It looked like the players were genuinely pleased to have spectators present.

It was a cracking game, and there was no trouble becoming engrossed and involved with it. I thought the team started to flag a little around the hour mark, a few others did too, so the volume was cranked up a bit. For the last few minutes I think the fans carried the team home. It didn’t feel like there were only 2,000 present.

I got home around 10.30, Mrs Mills had got the coal fire roaring, MOTD was starting, a glass of red wine was taken.

All in all it was excellent. Well done to the Club for managing things very well, and the team for their display. Good luck for next time for those who were not able to attend.

Carlo Ancelotti has been appalling recently and although I have never liked to hear fans giving up on games before we've even kicked off, some of the fears expressed before the kick-off were perfectly understandable.

I find some of the comments after the game even more mystifying, We needed that win yesterday, big time... but, welcome as it was, I found myself doing a double-take when I read somebody describe it as a "Tactical Masterclass".

Thankfully, after weeks of fucking about, Carlo went back to basics. The round pegs were removed from square holes and I'm happy to give him credit for motivating his players enough to win their personal duels... but "Tactical Masterclass"???

I also think the suggestion that Chelsea are title contenders is pie in the sky too. Whipped up to boost Carlo's "Fantastico"-ness. They have some very good individuals, but I'll go to the foot of our stairs if they even qualify for the Champions League.

Leicester are a better team and, if we can beat them, we really can start practicing a hearty rendition of "Tidings of comfort and joy"!

I wish all on TW a safe and healthy Christmas.

Sincere condolences.

I had been particularly looking forward to watching James, so I was disappointed when he was excluded. But maybe it helped.

I was very impressed with Ben Godfrey, who has a touch of Des Walker about him. And Allan was very combative, he could become a fan favourite.

So sorry to hear about your very sad loss, I hope your wife was looking down on the Blues and remembering her first date watching them. You'll always have those many happy memories you made together, and she'll know what a large family you've got on here, besides your own.

A nice touch by Jim Crowley from America as well, prayers can never do any harm and are always welcome I imagine. I hope we see you, Bill, at the next ToffeeWeb meeting, whenever that will be. Very best wishes, Bill.

Astute tactics from Ancelotti saw one of the league's top scoring teams restricted in the chance creation aspect of the game.

Seriously, if you haven't already done so go back to the start and have a read – they are genuinely funny.

As for the game itself it just shows you I suppose, do the basics right and everything else will follow. Be first to a loose ball, win your 50/50s, pass the ball forward (to a teammate), stop your opponent from crossing or shooting – and look what can happen.

Oh yes, and how quick is Ben Godfrey?

Chelsea have exceptional players but, then again, so have we, the problem is that we've forgotten how well we played at the start of the season. But onward and upwards, two tough games for us this week, but look at it another way, both Leicester & Arsenal have tough games this week.

We always need to win games. I hate the phrase "must win" in November and December personally. Those are title clinching, relegation surviving or European qualification deciding April and May games in my humble opinion. But that's me.

I think what we're all agreed on is that was a great win yesterday against a much talked about team, who – outside Liverpool and Man City – are up there.

I get what you say but, over the course of the season, we are only 2 points removed from them, with a long way to go.

No Carlo Magnifico from me. The manager and the team done well yesterday. Like you say, in previous weeks, they haven't. But the season ends in May and, as I previously stated, I didn't think last week's performance was that bad. Not to be confused with disappointing result.

Great to see the rapport between players and fans while warming up, coming out for the kick-off and at the end of the game. I must admit it gave me goosebumps,s especially since we got the right result. Interesting what both Peter and Brent said about the number of stewards. Maybe it's a way to increase the number of Evertonians present above 2000!

Hopefully that win, Is a good boost and hopefully we'll all get another Chrimbo present on Wednesday at Leicester.

We got a bit lucky with the James effort but he shouldn't have been on the pitch for me. Two really late tackles by him and should have been off.

Bring on Leicester City.

Had we played a back 4 against Leeds and Burnley, would we be sat joint top this weekend?

My wife and I have been married for 48 years and I would be lost without her, so I can both understand and imagine what you are feeling.

Although Carlo may well abandon the back 3 forever and that seems to be the popular opinion here, I don't think it is a bad system per se. I think the mistake that he made was to play Holgate on the left and Godfrey on the right, which was a very odd thing to do, since every Everton supporter and his dog will tell you it should be the other way around. Someone must have told Carlo, because in their natural positions, both Holgate and Godfrey were very good. We could take Mina out of yesterday's back 4 and play Digne and Iwobi or Coleman as wingbacks (if only Iwobi could learn to cross as well as Digne and Digne works on his defensive side a bit more). But, if we play Back 4, then Keane & Godfrey or Holgate & Godfrey should be our CB partnership.

Oh, and I should mention Kurt Zouma - he has obviously improved leaps and bounds from when he played for Everton and I just wonder what might have been if Chelsea did not have those CB injuries before the beginning of last season and we had managed to buy him.

Maybe Silva would have still been in the job. Losing Zouma and Gana at the same time and then our key signing of the summer (Gbamin) not being able to make any impact sealed his fate. Ah well

We have not yet lost to opponents from inside the M25! Saints have had a great start to the season but I can't see them sustaining their position if they lose one or two to injury or suspension.

Leicester next. Great one week. Very average the next. If you offered a point, I would grab it but I have a sneaky feeling we might have the beating of them.

The point at Burnley was disappointing but, in hindsight, we weren't too bad. Switch the last four points around and we would probably be happier. Not many were expecting a win vs Chelsea.

Maybe Ancelotti has got something about him after all. I was calling for a back three weeks ago. Not with Delph or Davies as wingbacks mind. I've always said a two-point average is where we should be aiming to become a threat to the Sky Six. On this season's evidence, I think we may come up a little short. However, we have the worst City side for many years coming to Goodison Park, an away trip to Sheffield Utd and Arteta's Arsenal. I'm not expecting nine points but I can see seven coming if the aptitude and graft shown against Chelsea prevails.

Before I receive the derogatory comments. I know history says we can't win without Richarlison but he hasn't played well for the last three or four games. Can we drop or rest him? Give Anthony Gordon a chance?

Will Sigurdsson put another performance in? Can we keep more clean sheets? Has Dom hit a barren spell? All questions we will find out before 2021.

Assuming of course that BMD does get under way soon!

Let's get behind him and the team, let's not keep changing our opinion from week to week – in fact from half to half, we need to be loyal and support our manager and team!!! COYB

We are now only 5 points off top and have just been through a dreadful run of games and have suffered injuries to key players.

Hopefully, yesterday's team "clicking" will give us a good platform to build on going into the second third of the season.

Not sure if you found it from your post? Made me think of how much EFC stuff is on YouTube if you know where to look for it. For example tomorrow Monday 2pm on the Everton YouTube channel live coverage of EFC U23s v West Ham - Free! Also there is a daily fan cast on Toffee TV from their YouTube channel.

I lost me dad the day before we played, funnily enough, Chelsea in the FA Cup replay at Stamford Bridge when won on pens.

Me dad was also an avid Blue, and was clearly looking down on us that day. It was a hard trip for me to make, but I was told it's what me dad would have wanted.

So so sorry... pleased that despite the sometimes acrimonious exchanges on this platform, you could share your pain.

Sometimes you don't feel wanted, then your manager throws you on: "Go and do what you're good at. Work hard and get stuck in, lad, help us get over the line" will have been words I'm sure Kenny will have been told, and it might just do him the world of good, hopefully.

Brilliant, Carlo, questions were starting to be asked and you found the solutions. The win breeds confidence in the players and lifts the spirits of the supporters.

First you always have to fight in football to earn the right to play. Let's build on this at Leicester.

COYB!!!!

The problem is getting the balance right between a solid defence and a more possession based attacking team.

Biggest difference was not conceeding first. Hard work, closing down, working together in combinations and not messing around with the ball at the back should continue to be the basis of all our game plans.

With 2 slow centre backs we played deep and stayed compact as a team. Simple stuff really and I don't understand why we push up so high in other games.

Godfreys pace at the back makes a huge difference to stop so many crosses coming in and preventing runners playing one-two's. Holgate did well too.

The natural full backs now have a real challenge to win their places back. Do we want full backs to defend or attack, thats always a hard question but for me they're defenders. Get forward, find space but don't both over commit.

DCL motm, created and made the penalty from nothing.

Big shout out for Allan who had to tell his Brazilian teammate Ric to stop being selfish and childish, Siggy is on penalties.

However, I don't wan't to see Siggy or any Everton player take such a pathetic penalty again! 1 very lucky man.

Jamie # 205. Sandra was an RC and would have been thrilled to know a Mass was being said, for her, in Florida. Thank you.

She would also have been pleased prayers are being said for her, too.

Thanks again Toffewebbers.

Any penalty that hits the back of the net counts. This one has been widely praised. He’s completely done the keeper, waited for him to commit and rolled it in. Fantastic.

Siggy had a good game, and about time! Stats I believe show he created 6 chances in the Match.
Hopefully we will see more of this from him.

As for how to fit Rodriguez in again? It may be a couple of months back but I seem to remember him fitting in very well when we had our full backs playing? I also seem to remember him linking up well with Gomes before he fell away.
Simple. Get a decent right back who can be relied upon on the pitch and a third midfielder who can maintain some form! Either someone more advanced and let Allan sit, or a deep sitting defensive mid and push Allan and Dacoure up. Either way, it’s not a challenge to accommodate him, it’s a challenge to get players on the pitch from our squad that are of the quality needed to allow him to thrive

We won a close game of football playing catenaccio style against a team that spent over £200m in the transfer market.

We lost against Leeds and drew against Burnley playing a more open style with a different formation.

If we carry on playing catenaccio the Waldorf and stadlers of this parish would wheel out the same drivel about no plan b, square pegs, busted flush etc etc.

If we revert to the more open style of football the same people will be saying we aren't defensive enough, no plan b, busted flush, square pegs, pension time etc.

Sometimes credit should be given when it's due not begrudgingly "well let's see what happens next game" mystic meg shite.

Anyhow utft.

It is when we play against the weaker teams, we have to control the game more. It's when we lack off the ball movements or player too conservative not to play the forward pass. In those situation, James presence is almost a must to unlock the other team's defence.

I don't belieeeeeeeeeeeeeve it!

We're not a great team but we're not a shit team, we're a team in transition. A great result against a seriously in-form outfit, let's keep looking up rather than down all the time.

I recently had the 10th anniversay of the passing of my mother and as I asked the rest of the family 'where did the years go?'

As you will with your wife, there hasn't been a day pass in those 10 years when any of us have failed to think of our mother. We continue to speak with her. We still hear her voice in reply. We feel the warm glow of so many happy memories. We still laugh at some of the side-splitting, tear-inducing moments.

They may be gone in the material sense. But for sure, their spirit and memories will remain as long as there is somone to recall them.

Peace be upon you, Bill.

It sounds as if the organization and marshalling was very good. Thorough, but not heavy-handed with levity being the order of the day even while necessary checks were being run.

Your presence made a difference, guys. I read another post which resonated with my own tele-spectator experience. The poster wrote that they were confused as to whether the broadcaster was continuing to play recorded fan audio over the commentary, or whether it was solely the chanting of the match-attending fans, or a hybrid of both.

Eventually it became evident that it WAS you guys in the stadium we were hearing. I'm guessing with so much empty space in the stadium any chanting by the 2,000 curiously echoed and reverberated around Goodison more than could be expected. Were either of you aware of that during the game?

And for me, your presence and support did help carry the team over the line in the final 15 minutes. Well done to all.

I also saw some fan footage on YouTube and I was delighted to see and hear the applause and support at the taking of the knee, plus the delight and interaction from the players to the fans seeing you back in attendance.

We are still a long, LONG way from getting back to full capacity crowds again. But this weekend, for me, simply reinforced just how important match-attending fans are.

Again, well done to you both (and the other 1,998). (You jammy bastards!) I hope the likes of Rob Halligan get their chance to enjoy the same soon.

Of course when Coleman, Digne and James are fit who misses out? We also have Gomes and Bernard waiting for chances. Carlo has said he will rotate, and even mentioned Tosun will get his chance too. I can't believe after the run we've had we are still right in the mix. Coyb

My suspicion is that after xmas we'll be in Tier 3 again and no fans at the game.

While the points are always welcome by whatever means, I prefer to get them on merit and by outplaying the opposition. It will be a good test on Wednesday to gauge whether we have exorcised our demons, and dispelled suicidal (defending) tendencies.

'I don't wan't to see Siggy or any Everton player take such a pathetic penalty again! 1 very lucky man.'

It would take considerably longer to decribe everything - everything! - Siggy did right in that penalty than the actual taking of it.

It was a superb penalty.

Sandra was from a Blue family and, back in the day, went, with me, to quite a few games, home and away. In more recent years it was often just the pre season friendly. Her last major match was v Benfica, in Lisbon, (2009?) when we made a week of it.

Her diary entries usually included our result; once a Blue always a Blue!

I, under no circumstances, want Deli Ali with Everton. For me, he seems a nasty fella and the type of guy to be a locker room cancer.

I just don’t like the guy in the least. Chemistry is the most underrated ingredient to success in all of sport. Deli Ali is a self absorbed Jack-wagon.

A big no.

No idea what a Jack-Wagon is, but that sounds like a quality put down

The definition of jackwagon is a slang insult meaning worthless or lazy that may have originated from the nickname of 19th century chow wagons in a wagon train.

An example of a jackwagon is an insult you would call someone who you thought was a loser.

I agree with James and Jamie, Ali is not a player who I'd pay high wages too, even on loan, he comes across as a 'hey look at me type' and we've had too many of those in the last few years. No doubt he is talented, but is he the right sort to play for us at the minute?

We were compact, we nullified, we played with an edge and earned a well-deserved win. “Tonight, Mathew, I'm going to be Burnley”, a carbon copy of which won 1-0 at Arsenal yesterday in almost identikit style. It was uncanny.

It was a performance that allowed some very limited players to feel the safety of a risk-free game plan under no expectation, and the inviting bosom of defending deep. Mina, Keane and Sigurdsson all excelled because they had just one job. It was actually a bit of a Pyrrhic victory; ask those three above to do anymore and you'll get exposed by even modest opponents. I hope Carlo doesn't think this win is the way forward! 😳

We expended a huge amount of energy allowing them to have the ball for the most part. We restricted ourselves to a golden moment or two, however surprisingly, there were half a dozen.

That win, or rather the way we won, simply isn't sustainable. As much as it was back to basics etc. we cannot play that way against most of our opponents. That plan has only one way of playing: if we go a goal behind that side sitting deep, isolating Calvert-Lewin, we will wither in the vine. You cannot just switch mentality to attack set up that deep and you go a goal down.

It might work Wednesday, which is what I fully expect Carlo to go with, perhaps James instead of Sigurdsson at No 10. However, Leicester are far more mobile, slippery than Chelsea were on Saturday. My greater worry is playing that way against a moribund Arsenal and a hapless Sheffield United.

I believe Carlo will find a way but Saturday really exposed, for me, how poor the squad is. Only a month ago, I thought a decent defensive midfielder might transform this side. Like I said, conflicted.

I very much echo Jay's sentiments @270. Sincere condolences

I love to see players working hard for the team; I always think that players look like they are working harder when they're playing in a system that suits them.

I thought Iwobi had his best game in a blue shirt by far even though he was a lot more productive against Fulham the other week. He worked very hard and even began to look like he was relishing what this gave him.

I said it at the beginning of the season but, watching the other night, I think Wilfred Zaha would be perfect for Everton right now, especially if Iwobi wants to carry on working hard. If he does, I'm sure he will eventually become a very good player, playing inside.

Playing to our strengths JP, I hope we keep playing it as tight as we did the other night, because I personally think it suits us!

I find myself in the same conflicted place that you do. I watched the first-half, on my picture-in-picture telly, with the game taking precedence on the 'full' screen after half-time. I viewed it on the 'smaller' screen because I couldn't bare to watch 50 minutes of backs-to-the-wall footy at home to a very good side but not a world-beating team.

I celebrated the result as much as any other Blue but, whilst there is a need to employ these type of tactics every so often, and due to mitigating circumstances, I don't want to see Everton employ this sort of tactic whenever we face a side that we deem to be superior to us.

It wasn't exactly the tactics that a Dyche or Allardyce side may employ but it was too close to it for my taste; however, it is likely the same will happen in midweek at Leicester City, but it will take the same amount of effort and for lady luck to smile down upon us if Everton is to emerge with the three points.

Perhaps I'm in the minority, but Everton FC will not progress:

a) if they don't believe in the system they play in (save the odd backs-to-the-wall tactics)

b) if we fail to produce the tactics necessary to keep it tight at the back whilst simultaneously posing a real threat at the other end.

Maybe winning by whatever means necessary is the only objective and there is no such thing as an 'ugly' victory but I certainly wouldn't want to see that tactic employed too often, when we all return to Goodison.

May I also add my condolences to you and your family, for the loss of your beloved wife Sandra, may she rest in peace.

'Fierce backing from the 2,000 Evertonians inside Goodison, who greeted the Z-Cars theme with a tumultuous roar and made a remarkable noise throughout, played its part in a home display that combined defiance with potency on the counterattack.'

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