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Everton 2 - 0 Crystal Palace
Everton kick off the new Premier League season at Hill Dickinson Stadium this afternoon against Crystal Palace, still without a new right-back and Christian Norgaard out injured.
Optimism for the new season has to be tempered by some of the continuing realities that drag us down, the biggest being that David Moyes is in denial over last season being a failure -- no one told him we were supposed to try and get into Europe!
So can he be expected to turn over a new leaf, play forward attacking football, give decent playing time to the prodigious young talent he has on the books, try and actually win football games??? Can you teach an old dog new tricks?
Team News
Branthwaite, Rohl, Armstrong, Hackney and George will hopefully all prove to be good starting choices for this opening fixture, although Hackney is the only new signing. Brennan Johnson is on the bench where James Garner is fit enough to be named also after recovering from his hernia operation.
Christian Norgaard's 'minor' muscle injury continues to prevent him from starting his Everton playing career. No place for Adam Aznou, while Tim Iroegbunam is still out injured.
For the visitors, a familiar face in Dwight McNeil takes his place in the starting line-up, wearing Number 11.
First Half
Dewsbury-Hall got us off but there was no hoof from Pickford, but Everton soon lost possession, Wharton fouled. It was scrappy, especially when Tarkowski messed up a eader and Nketiah was in, Mateta clipping his shot over the bar, Phew!
George got forward and crossed in a little unconvincingly; cleared. Armstrong made a superb challenge on Whatron to prevent him launching an attack but Palace already looked quicker to the ball. But Dewsbury-Hall forced a turnover and again George seemed too hesitant to make the most of it.
Some good defending was needed from Rohl to stop Nketiah getting in around the back. But Palace surged forward when they got the ball and McNeil's shot needed blocking.
But Everton were struggling to match the intensity from Palace and ball fell to Munoz, Pickford forced to parry his shot.
A much better move finally saw Everton get forward but Ndiaye could only force a save from Henderson. They kept the ball around the Palace area but could not fashion a shot. Ndiaye looked to advance but tripped over the ball.
Ndiaye stole the ball and got Rohl running down the wing but no one had advanced to anticipate the cross. At the other end, a brilliant ball over the top to Nketiah looked a certain goal but Pickford got an excellent hand to it and onto the post... fantastic save!
It looked like Mateta might power his way past Tarkowski but the new Everton captain had other ideas. More stern defending required to keep Palace at bay as they hunted down the Blue shirts who needed to really up their game. But in possession, Everton were still far too slow in terms of decision-making, and reliant on the long ball.
One found George but his intentions were read by the Palace defender. A Mykolenko long throw posed no threat whatsoever. But a brilliant dribble from Ndiaye got everyone excited. A ball in saw Canvot kick Branthwaite in the Palace area but offside was called. A daft VAR delay ensued before that was confirmed. Ridiculous.
Armstrong drew a foul wide right but the ball was played back to Pickford, then lost from a throw-in. Everton tried to play out but Rohl was dispossessed. Barry was then upturned by Kamada for the first yellow card.
Another worrying Palace drive was halted by good defensive work from George, almost spoilt by a terrible Pickford clearance, then Everton's counter too easily stalled.
Everton edged forward. George's shot cannoning off a defender for another long throw. This one caused more danger, Branthwaite getting the ball through to George whose shot was parried just wide of the far post -- from an offside position.
Another slow Everton attack, Dewsbury-Hall scooping a difficult cross behind for a goalkick. Another laboured passing sequence again failed to get the ball anywhere near the Palace goal while at the other end another incredible chance was created by Nketiah for Mateta who hit the post! By rights, the Blues should be 3-0 down, and Branthwaite hobbling, grasping his thigh...
Dewsbury-Hall did brilliantly to control a difficult ball and gallop away, playing in Barry for a perfect goal.... only for Barry to stumble on the ball and pass it to the defender.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (43') finally scored with a left-foot rocket after Armstrong superbly stole the ball off Munoz. An excellent piece of work from both players.
A faster attack stuttered a bit with George, but Hackney clipped over a great cross that won a corner. Dewsbury-Hall fired in a cross that was straight at Henderson.
Another incredible opportunity for Palace and it looked like Munoz would head home but George did enough to put him off and Everton went in 1-0 ahead rather than 3-1 down, their goal leading a charmed life.
Second Half
Palace restarted the game, but another brilliant steal by Hackney fed Barry for an early shot that he drove into a defender. Ndiaye fed Rohl and his cross was blocked behind for a corner. Dewsbury-Hall floated it in, George eventually shooting, deflected behind for another Dewsbury-Hall corner, curling in under the bar.
Hackney and George combined, Hackney also shooting at a defender. Hackney and George combined well again, but it ended in a Palace goal-kick. Some lovely one-touch passing in the middle fed Dewsbury-Hall but this time he sliced it horribly high and wide.
Ndiaye was fouled wide right and a quick ball forward from Hackney saw wndiaye put in a beautiful ball to the far post was powered in by an ecstatic Thierno Barry (54'). Changes from Palace in response.
Everton surged forward, Barry clipping a sweet cross into the path of Ndiaye who volleyed it into the ground, enabling Henderson to save it too easily.
Rohl did superbly in defence to stop anything developing. George went on another wonderful run, Ndiaye trying to shoot over the keeper into the far corner. Some nice work from Armstrong failed to find a blue shirt but the Blues were playing with a lot more confidence.
Palace finally had a spell of sorts, only for Canvot to put the ball behind, and more changes required, Guessand shooting straight at Pickford.
A lovely bit of football almost played in Barry, Riad injuring himself and requiring the stretcher after a long pause for treatment.
Some more great attacking football from Everton thanks to Ndiaye, looking for a third goal, George having two bites of the cherry. Moyes made some changes after 79 minutes, with Palace doing most of the attacking. Brennan Johnson then getting his debut.
Dewsbury-Hall put a tasty cross over for Johnson that he couldn't quite reach.
Johnson was fouled and Dewsbury-Hall put in a strange low cross that almost forced an own-goal. Johnson then had to do some good defensive work at the other end.
Garner then released Johnson down the right but good defending from Tomiyasu stops him. Beto gave the ball away and it led to a Palace attack that saw Larsen head the ball straight at Pickford.
Pickford launched the ball forward to Beto who looked like he might get beyond Richards and through on goal, only for him to do his usual two-left-feet routine and made a complete mess of it.
Alcaraz had a chance to shoot, created by Garner, but it was a feeble effort, and that was pretty much it, a very disjointed last period that saw Everton keep a clean sheet and ensure a top-half place in the Premier League table after the first round of games.
Teamsheets
Everton: Pickford; Mykolenko, Branthwaite, Tarkowski, Rohl; Armstrong, Dewsbury-Hall (90+4' Alcaraz), Hackney (79' Garner); George (84' Johnson), Barry (79' Beto), Ndiaye.
Subs not Used: Travers, Patterson, Keane, O'Brien, Dibling.
Crystal Palace: Henderson, Muñoz (55' Khalaili), Canvot, Richards, Riad (72' Tomiyasu), Mitchell, Kamada [Y:31'], Wharton, Nketiah (55' Pino), McNeil (63' Guessand), Mateta (63' Strand Larsen).
Subs not Used: Benítez, Mingueza, Sosa, Hughes.
Attendance: 51,820
Match Officials
Referee: Paul Tierney
Video Assistant Referee: Timothy Wood
Assistant Referee 1: Richard West
Assistant Referee 2: Mark Stevens
Fourth Official: Josh Smith
Assistant VAR: Adam Nunn
Reader Comments (175)
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Rocco Bugaj
2 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:52:00
2 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:52:00
Derek, I was just about to write that. I'm from Germany and I've known [about] Röhl for a while.
Defensively, he lacks physicality and experience. Hopefully, a real right-back is still in-coming.
Defensively, he lacks physicality and experience. Hopefully, a real right-back is still in-coming.
Kevin Molloy
3 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:53:19
3 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:53:19
Hackney, Armstrong and George all play.
Mike Powell
4 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:55:40
4 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:55:40
COME ON YOU BLUES
Kevin Naylor
5 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:56:07
5 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:56:07
Live forum link is an old one.
Jack Convery
6 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:57:32
6 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:57:32
That's what Big Jake gets for letting it be known that he doesn't want to play right-back.
Tony Hughes
7 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:58:40
7 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:58:40
Rohl at right-back.
Alan McGuffog
8 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:02:42
8 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:02:42
And because Tarkowski is captain, he gets the nod ahead of O'Brien?
What a manager!
What a manager!
Tony Hughes
9 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:03:49
9 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:03:49
Probably the best available option at RB or Moyes making a point to the invisible men
David Harvey
10 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:07:05
10 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:07:05
Possible 443...I like..Rhol is wasted as a RB
Kevin Molloy
11 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:07:37
11 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:07:37
We'll be fine as long as we don't lose the ball.
I find it strange Michael that last season was the first season deemed a 'failure' given it was the first season in about 8 years that we were never at any point threatened with relegation.
In fact we were heading for the Champions League with 7 games to go. I don't blame Moyes for saying 'hang on, I'm the failure'?
What about the stingy owners, who still haven't invested in the defence for a thousand years.
Yes, we bottled the last 7 games, but that don'ts mean he's not been the best manager here for a decade. Why should he be the only one called out?
I'd love to see how Eddie Howe would have managed playing with Keane and Tarkowski all last season, and Mykolenko and O'Brien. Somehow I doubt we'd have been Top 6.
I find it strange Michael that last season was the first season deemed a 'failure' given it was the first season in about 8 years that we were never at any point threatened with relegation.
In fact we were heading for the Champions League with 7 games to go. I don't blame Moyes for saying 'hang on, I'm the failure'?
What about the stingy owners, who still haven't invested in the defence for a thousand years.
Yes, we bottled the last 7 games, but that don'ts mean he's not been the best manager here for a decade. Why should he be the only one called out?
I'd love to see how Eddie Howe would have managed playing with Keane and Tarkowski all last season, and Mykolenko and O'Brien. Somehow I doubt we'd have been Top 6.
Edward Rogers
12 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:18:54
12 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:18:54
Garner on the bench ????
Ian Bennett
13 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:27:58
13 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:27:58
Collective failure across the players, manager and board. No one person was responsible for it, but they all need to own it and ensure it doesn't repeat again.
Ajay Gopal
14 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:28:31
14 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:28:31
I like this selection, almost my prediction but George has come in instead of Dibling - no complaints from me. I can understand why Moyes preferred Tarkowski to O’Brien. Jarrad and Jake have hardly played together as a CB pair, and Jarrad himself is coming back from an injury. Slightly nervous about this one, mainly because of their manager, who is supposed to be tactically astute. But COYB!
Billy Shears
15 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:31:50
15 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:31:50
Same as last season, methinks!...2-1 Blues 💙
Nicolas Piñon
16 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:32:57
16 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:32:57
Why no palace formation?
Ian Horan
17 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:39:49
17 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:39:49
3-4-3 palaces new manager plays McNeil starts too. we know how this goes McNeil plays like prime Messi
Paul Olsen
18 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:43:03
18 Posted 22/08/2026 at 14:43:03
A full bench with players, wow. Just two goalkeepers as well.
Nicolas Piñon
19 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:04:53
19 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:04:53
That is our captain ? Ffs
Nicolas Piñon
21 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:36:15
21 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:36:15
Hackney is no DFM
Nicolas Piñon
22 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:39:07
22 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:39:07
Well Barry rhol George
Tim Welsh
23 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:51:21
23 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:51:21
Does anyone know where I can access the live commentary on the Everton website ? I've been trying for the whole of the first half, logged in, but I cannot find anything. Does anyone have a link, please? I'm to listen to 5Live and it is sheer misery.
Brendan McLaughlin
24 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:58:08
24 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:58:08
Tim #23
Try Roxiestreams. Working well for me
Try Roxiestreams. Working well for me
Michael Kenrick
25 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:58:52
25 Posted 22/08/2026 at 15:58:52
Tim,
https://www.evertonfc.com/live
Select Live Now | Audio Commentary | Watch Now
https://www.evertonfc.com/live
Select Live Now | Audio Commentary | Watch Now
Si Cooper
26 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:03:18
26 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:03:18
Tim, I’ve got the commentary (but it’s just silence or crowd noise until just before the ball is kicked off).
You need to click / touch the play button on today’s fixture and then on ‘Live now’. It’s just started up again for second half.
You need to click / touch the play button on today’s fixture and then on ‘Live now’. It’s just started up again for second half.
Ian Horan
27 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:28:02
27 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:28:02
wheres the roxiestream link gone?
Warwick Jones
28 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:37:54
28 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:37:54
Ta very much Tim.The trick was adding "/live" to the URL while I'm on the website and it all worked perfectly from there. I still don't know why the "live audio" link from the home page doesn't work. COYB!
Sean O\\\'Hanlon
29 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:40:13
29 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:40:13
I don't like 2 up with 10mins to go
Sean O\\\'Hanlon
30 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:43:20
30 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:43:20
I don't like 2 up with 10mins to go
Jeff Spiers
31 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:54:22
31 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:54:22
Sean LOL. Best post for a long time!! Ohhh Matron
Tim Welsh
32 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:57:49
32 Posted 22/08/2026 at 16:57:49
Thanks to everyone for the help in getting the commentary. I heard most of the second half. Solid start to the season. Got that fully belly feeling that only comes with a win !
Des De Araujo
33 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:00:00
33 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:00:00
Didn't manage to see this one but great 1st result that. For Danny!
Christy Ring
34 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:04:49
34 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:04:49
Great finish by KDH, but for me, Armstrong was outstanding and MoM. We definitely need a fullback and striker, good to see Barry scoring from a brilliant cross, but Beto so poor.
.
.
.
.
Kevin Naylor
35 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:09:31
35 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:09:31
Only downside was late subs again and Alcaraz on 90+4 why?
Alan J Thompson
36 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:13:43
36 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:13:43
Overall I'm in two minds about the performance and while I thought we played well I also thought that Palace could, perhaps should, have scored five in the first half. Initially we seemed to get as far as the edge of their penalty box when it all fell apart.
The only part I remember Tarkowski was him almost letting Palace in after 3 minutes while later Pickford kept us in it with a marvelous save and then we had luck in Palace twice hitting the post which I thought would be harsh to call poor finishing except they were very good chances.
A magnificent finish by KD-H and quicker crossing saw Barry in position but at times while we had a couple in their box we really needed a few more.
MotM could be shared around a few, Branthwaite showed his importance to us, George always presented them with problems, Ndiaye improved when moved to the left, Armstrong should have cemented his place in the side with that performance but Rohl was outstanding and gets my vote while Mykolenko would have silenced some of his critics.
My only doubts were if we tried to just defend the lead after the substitutions were made.
The only part I remember Tarkowski was him almost letting Palace in after 3 minutes while later Pickford kept us in it with a marvelous save and then we had luck in Palace twice hitting the post which I thought would be harsh to call poor finishing except they were very good chances.
A magnificent finish by KD-H and quicker crossing saw Barry in position but at times while we had a couple in their box we really needed a few more.
MotM could be shared around a few, Branthwaite showed his importance to us, George always presented them with problems, Ndiaye improved when moved to the left, Armstrong should have cemented his place in the side with that performance but Rohl was outstanding and gets my vote while Mykolenko would have silenced some of his critics.
My only doubts were if we tried to just defend the lead after the substitutions were made.
Mike Powell
37 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:14:47
37 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:14:47
Rode are lucky in first half much better in second half, some great performances,let's keep it up in midweek against Preston COYB
Nicolas Piñon
38 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:15:00
38 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:15:00
Dont know what to think of this win
At least we got it
At least we got it
Ron Sear
39 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:18:42
39 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:18:42
Only thirty seven more points needed to be safe.
Steve Brown
40 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:20:34
40 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:20:34
Impressed by all the young players, especially Hackney, Armstrong and George.
Neil Tyrrell
41 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:21:03
41 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:21:03
To run off a few more seconds Kevin, they all do it. Very happy with the win and Impressed with the attacking intent, has Moyes changed his spots like the proverbial leopard? Nah...
Maybe a bit fortunate with the clean sheet, Pickford with a great save, another post, George (I think) putting someone off a free header late on. Could have been 2-2 at HT honestly. Good deserved win overall though.
Anyone see the screen tribute to Danny? Was looking for it on the telecast but no luck.
Maybe a bit fortunate with the clean sheet, Pickford with a great save, another post, George (I think) putting someone off a free header late on. Could have been 2-2 at HT honestly. Good deserved win overall though.
Anyone see the screen tribute to Danny? Was looking for it on the telecast but no luck.
Mike Gaynes
42 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:25:10
42 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:25:10
Just want to point out that the manager who "won't trust young players" put out four of them today, and three were crucial to the win. Armstrong was clear MoM for me, Hackney was composed and solid, and George was dazzling out on the wing.
The fourth, Rohl, unfortunately had a defensive positioning disaster at RB, losing Nketiah twice and giving the ball away in a key position. He did look great going forward a couple of times.
One of the RBs we are in for, Munoz, lost the ball to Armstrong for our first goal and got skinned by George once or twice, also missed a header right in front of Pickford. Not sure he's the answer.
The fourth, Rohl, unfortunately had a defensive positioning disaster at RB, losing Nketiah twice and giving the ball away in a key position. He did look great going forward a couple of times.
One of the RBs we are in for, Munoz, lost the ball to Armstrong for our first goal and got skinned by George once or twice, also missed a header right in front of Pickford. Not sure he's the answer.
Ajay Gopal
43 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:26:24
43 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:26:24
I am relieved and happy with this win. We did ride our luck in the 1st half, but 2nd half was all Everton. Bold team selection by Moyes. Rohl did well at RB, but a couple of slips by him opened up opportunities for Crystal Palace which they didn't take. Better teams than Palace would have punished those mistakes. Ndiaye started slowly I thought but grew into the game. Ditto, Dewsbury-Hall, he really came alive after about 30 minutes in the 1st half. Hackney showed a lot of confidence, George was lively, and Mykolenko showed why Moyes still prefers him at LB. He is a left sided version of Tony Hibbert at his best. Really pleased for Barry for his goal, I hope he kicks on. But, my MotM was Harrison Armstrong - I thought he was immense, not only for his assist for the 1st goal. He harried the Crystal Palace attackers all game and never gave them a moments respite. I think we may have a star in the making (touch wood). When both Norgaard and Garner are fit and available, Moyes will be faced with a difficult decision, but a happy difficult decision to make.
Phil Roberts
44 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:26:48
44 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:26:48
That was Moyes' 4th youngest starting XI ever and our youngest since Liverpool 0-0 on 3/9/2022 which was the 3rd of 3 games at the start of the season under Lampard.
Also first opening day win since Beneauthus when we beat the Spies 3-1
Great comment Ajay. Yes Myko is not a Baines but a Hibbert and good at it. And pleased for Barry and I think it proves to all that he is better than Beto and one day he will score a goal before half time.
Also agree that if we get a RB then Moyes has a huge problem of who to play in the middle of the park.
Up and running. COYBs
Also first opening day win since Beneauthus when we beat the Spies 3-1
Great comment Ajay. Yes Myko is not a Baines but a Hibbert and good at it. And pleased for Barry and I think it proves to all that he is better than Beto and one day he will score a goal before half time.
Also agree that if we get a RB then Moyes has a huge problem of who to play in the middle of the park.
Up and running. COYBs
Kevin Naylor
45 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:29:07
45 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:29:07
Neil #41, I realise that but he should have been on sooner to try and get the 3rd but thats not Moyes style. On another day we could easily have lost that but we didnt so onwards and upwards.
Jay Lewis
46 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:29:46
46 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:29:46
Mike @42 just heard his post match interview and he basically admitted Armstrong and Hackney only got to start because of injuries and would not have started otherwise. He did admit that Armstrong is making a good claim for his place in the team though. He called Garner Jimmy Gardner again and sounded like they're priming Rohl for that RB position. I still want Moyes Out!!
Nigel Scowen
47 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:31:14
47 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:31:14
Does Moyes deserve any credit for that team selection, just saying
Jay Lewis
48 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:31:58
48 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:31:58
No Nigel, in a nutshell
Phil Roberts
49 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:32:25
49 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:32:25
Nigel - this is ToffeeWeb. Don't be stupid.
Neil Tyrrell
50 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:32:57
50 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:32:57
Can't disagree Kevin, his dithering on subs is just one of the reasons I am not a Moyes fan.
Andrea Jacobs
51 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:36:32
51 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:36:32
We won!
Haha
People wanting us to lose and be shite so you can lay into Moyes, you know who you are.
There are Blues I know who want us to be in trouble by November so Moyes is sacked.
That’s why they’re not sure how to feel when we win.
Winning elicits nothing more than faint praise.
Moyes is a good manager, and yet again, he’s building a good team here. Dewsbury-Hall, Armstrong, Hackney, I like the look of it.
We’ll finish around 8th and it’ll be a decent season.
Just enjoy it.
We can build on it with a new manager next season. I’d go for that Luis Enrique at PSG, personally. If he’s not up for it, I’d go for the teenager who manages Brighton, I like his style.
Haha
People wanting us to lose and be shite so you can lay into Moyes, you know who you are.
There are Blues I know who want us to be in trouble by November so Moyes is sacked.
That’s why they’re not sure how to feel when we win.
Winning elicits nothing more than faint praise.
Moyes is a good manager, and yet again, he’s building a good team here. Dewsbury-Hall, Armstrong, Hackney, I like the look of it.
We’ll finish around 8th and it’ll be a decent season.
Just enjoy it.
We can build on it with a new manager next season. I’d go for that Luis Enrique at PSG, personally. If he’s not up for it, I’d go for the teenager who manages Brighton, I like his style.
George Cumiskey
52 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:40:57
52 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:40:57
Let's not go overboard they should of scored 3 or 4 in the first half, and we still deffo need a striker Barry and Beto not the answer, I also thought Myolenko had a very good game maybe a few people will a bit more credit 😉
Mike Powell
53 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:42:31
53 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:42:31
We win two nil and yet some still moan, only on ToffeeWeb
Ian Wilkins
54 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:42:52
54 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:42:52
That’s a mixed bag isn’t it.
Youthful enthusiasm and on occasions exuberance mixed with youthful naivety.
Could have been punished a number of times, could have added to goal total
Side probably needs a bit more experience but who would drop out?
Rohl did well, same KDH, Ndiaye excellent till 70 mins.
This is where squad comes in. We bring players on for fresh legs and look worse.
Said that will take the win, great to have 3 points on the board day 1.
Youthful enthusiasm and on occasions exuberance mixed with youthful naivety.
Could have been punished a number of times, could have added to goal total
Side probably needs a bit more experience but who would drop out?
Rohl did well, same KDH, Ndiaye excellent till 70 mins.
This is where squad comes in. We bring players on for fresh legs and look worse.
Said that will take the win, great to have 3 points on the board day 1.
Jay Lewis
55 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:43:04
55 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:43:04
Andrea, I'm made up we've actually got 3 points on the opening day of the season, can't believe we've actually won haha. It's great and was refreshing to see some of the younger players getting the chance that they deserve but I still want Moyes gone. I wouldn't wish us to lose and suffer badly just for him to get sacked though. Hopefully, he can leave gracefully when it comes to it
Tom Bowers
56 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:44:34
56 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:44:34
Let's face it there are no way games in the Prem. and some victories will come despite some good fortune in your own end which we had today early on but all credit to the Blues they collected themselves and after some great moves KDH got us in front at a vital time.
After the break we played some more great stuff and deserved to win the match.
Missing some gilt edged chances will undoubtedly cost us some games down the line but I am optimistic that the talent we now have will carry the day more often than not.
After the break we played some more great stuff and deserved to win the match.
Missing some gilt edged chances will undoubtedly cost us some games down the line but I am optimistic that the talent we now have will carry the day more often than not.
Christy Ring
57 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:49:55
57 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:49:55
Andrea#51 I certainly hope no one wants us to lose. Listening to Moyes interview, he agreed with the reporter, that Armstrong played well, but said there's room for big improvement from him? I thought he was MoM today.
Liam Mogan
58 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:53:39
58 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:53:39
Would any fan want us to lose? Mad that.
Can't stand Moyes but I would never want us to lose any game
Can't stand Moyes but I would never want us to lose any game
John Collins
59 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:59:11
59 Posted 22/08/2026 at 17:59:11
Three points the main thing today.
We could have been 3 down before we scored so take the result and move on.
We could have been 3 down before we scored so take the result and move on.
David West
60 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:01:13
60 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:01:13
Thought we got better the longer the game went, with so many young lads, in the first game at home in the PL, I'd expect a bit of nerves.
We've got some decent footballers now, especially in the middle, who don't look like they just want to get rid of the ball.
We do lack that threat a real quality striker brings, but in George & Ndiaye we have real pace and cutting edge.
KDH is our key cog, it doesn't always come off for him, but he never stops, and took his goal with some conviction.
A decent bench too today.
Add norgard and a couple more incoming transfers & loans and it's not looking too bad, a RB obviously but any strikers who don't have flippers for feet would make a big difference.
We've got some decent footballers now, especially in the middle, who don't look like they just want to get rid of the ball.
We do lack that threat a real quality striker brings, but in George & Ndiaye we have real pace and cutting edge.
KDH is our key cog, it doesn't always come off for him, but he never stops, and took his goal with some conviction.
A decent bench too today.
Add norgard and a couple more incoming transfers & loans and it's not looking too bad, a RB obviously but any strikers who don't have flippers for feet would make a big difference.
Jay Lewis
61 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:01:24
61 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:01:24
I would like to think that TFG are trying to keep our transfer spending as low as possible this season, so next season we are getting a new manager who will have a lot more to spend because it will have helped our psr/scr or whatever it's called by not splashing out this season, here's hoping!
John Collins
62 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:04:09
62 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:04:09
Mike.
I agree on motm.
Thought Hackney looked the part sitting in as well.
Most of the build up went through him.
I agree on motm.
Thought Hackney looked the part sitting in as well.
Most of the build up went through him.
Jay Lewis
63 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:05:48
63 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:05:48
Hackney, Armstrong and George were all boss today John
George Cumiskey
64 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:10:16
64 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:10:16
Andrea what inane comment of course we don't us to lose just to get rid of Moyes, people are just commenting on what they've seen, and he's not a good manager he's an okay manager, and don't forget he said Armstrong and Hackney only played because of injuries so people saying he gave youth a chance is rubbish.
Andy Walker
65 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:11:45
65 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:11:45
Andrea 51. I completely agree with you.
I also know some supporters who want us to have a terrible start so Moyes is sacked.
These are the same fans who started hating him when they thought he ran his Everton contract down for the last 6 months having already agreed to join Man United as manager around January 2013.
We now know this is total shite as Mourinho has confirmed he actually agreed to join Man Utd as manager in May 2013 before reneging on the agreement and going back to Chelsea instead.
I also know some supporters who want us to have a terrible start so Moyes is sacked.
These are the same fans who started hating him when they thought he ran his Everton contract down for the last 6 months having already agreed to join Man United as manager around January 2013.
We now know this is total shite as Mourinho has confirmed he actually agreed to join Man Utd as manager in May 2013 before reneging on the agreement and going back to Chelsea instead.
Mick O\\\'Malley
66 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:13:11
66 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:13:11
No one wants us to lose, I'm sorry but I'm just not having that at all. It's okay to not like the manager but it doesn't mean we want to lose.
Also Barry is here, let's just get behind him. He scored, we won, so let's just celebrate the win. A decent team performance, 3 points in the bag, well played, Blues.
Also Barry is here, let's just get behind him. He scored, we won, so let's just celebrate the win. A decent team performance, 3 points in the bag, well played, Blues.
Jay Lewis
67 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:15:36
67 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:15:36
Who on earth who is true blue would want us to lose and do badly to get a manager sacked? Really?!
I admit I want him gone, but not to the detriment of our club!
I admit I want him gone, but not to the detriment of our club!
Ian Bennett
68 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:16:25
68 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:16:25
Pickford kept them in it with two excellent saves.
Thought George was really bright, and fully warranted his start. Worth MotM.
Impressed with Armstrong. He gave it away cheaply at times, like others, but he is growing into an excellent midfielder.
Pleased for Barry. The hold-up play clearly needs to be better, but the goal and his great cross for Ndiaye should've made it 3.
Rohl did well at right-back and, based on one game, certainly undermined the argument to sign Munoz. It was hard to see that he is an upgrade.
Standard David Moyes 3 points, utft.
Thought George was really bright, and fully warranted his start. Worth MotM.
Impressed with Armstrong. He gave it away cheaply at times, like others, but he is growing into an excellent midfielder.
Pleased for Barry. The hold-up play clearly needs to be better, but the goal and his great cross for Ndiaye should've made it 3.
Rohl did well at right-back and, based on one game, certainly undermined the argument to sign Munoz. It was hard to see that he is an upgrade.
Standard David Moyes 3 points, utft.
Jay Lewis
69 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:17:07
69 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:17:07
Yes Mick, get in! UTFT!
Andy Walker
70 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:25:12
70 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:25:12
Who, Jay @67?
The same sort of fan who repeatedly spouted Moyes had done a deal to become Man Utd manager in January 2013, even though he still had 5 months of his contract left with Everton, that's who.
The same sort of fan who repeatedly spouted Moyes had done a deal to become Man Utd manager in January 2013, even though he still had 5 months of his contract left with Everton, that's who.
Jonathan Oppenheimer
71 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:30:28
71 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:30:28
Solid 3 points to start the season. Pickford, Armstrong, Hackney, George, Dewsbury-Hall, Ndiaye all excellent. Rohl struggled a bit but he's better than O'Brien out there. Glad Barry got the goal, will help settle his nerves. Mykolenko did what we needed him to.
Hopefully we can take away big picture that there should be great optimism with our younger core, especially Armstrong, who is already in great form, could be world class in a couple years. And maybe we can start to give the benefit of the doubt to our recruitment team and Moyes.
The biggest pieces missing are obviously right-back, and I think a true defensive midfielder would've prevented Palace from breaking the lines so easily first half.
I also wish O'Brien could be getting game time over Tarkowski, who almost cost us a goal a few minutes in. We all know it won't happen this season unless Tarkowski completely shits the bed, but I feel for Jake, as he deserves his chance.
Also wish Dibling had come on today instead of Johnson, both for Tyler's confidence, and because I think we'll find what Palace and Spurs fans have said about Johnson is true, that he has pace and will get some goals, but not much else.
Sign a right-back and bring in a striker on loan and we'll be plenty good this season. Next season, we go younger at centre-back, consider a replacement for Mykolenko. We won't get it all this window. Up the Toffees.
Hopefully we can take away big picture that there should be great optimism with our younger core, especially Armstrong, who is already in great form, could be world class in a couple years. And maybe we can start to give the benefit of the doubt to our recruitment team and Moyes.
The biggest pieces missing are obviously right-back, and I think a true defensive midfielder would've prevented Palace from breaking the lines so easily first half.
I also wish O'Brien could be getting game time over Tarkowski, who almost cost us a goal a few minutes in. We all know it won't happen this season unless Tarkowski completely shits the bed, but I feel for Jake, as he deserves his chance.
Also wish Dibling had come on today instead of Johnson, both for Tyler's confidence, and because I think we'll find what Palace and Spurs fans have said about Johnson is true, that he has pace and will get some goals, but not much else.
Sign a right-back and bring in a striker on loan and we'll be plenty good this season. Next season, we go younger at centre-back, consider a replacement for Mykolenko. We won't get it all this window. Up the Toffees.
Jay Lewis
72 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:33:08
72 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:33:08
That's mad Andy, surely not proper blues.
Hopefully if Man Utd continue their season this badly, they might come calling for him again haha!
Hopefully if Man Utd continue their season this badly, they might come calling for him again haha!
Dale Self
73 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:40:45
73 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:40:45
The advance of the ball out of our half was spectacular for us. Not just a couple of players, but anyone with their back to goal or in an inside position knew where the runs were.
Knowing helped them either quickly get it into the channel or make the extra move in possession to create a pass path to the runner. This shows some collective understanding of the system.
Getting the ball out of our half with some potency is crucial for us to be able to recycle possession. There must be some options forcing the opponents' lines back.
We have a solid potential to be capable of going high-low, actually low-high, to keep pressure on the back line in and around the box.
The final third stuff was rather brilliant for a first match as well. Fuckin Moyes.
Knowing helped them either quickly get it into the channel or make the extra move in possession to create a pass path to the runner. This shows some collective understanding of the system.
Getting the ball out of our half with some potency is crucial for us to be able to recycle possession. There must be some options forcing the opponents' lines back.
We have a solid potential to be capable of going high-low, actually low-high, to keep pressure on the back line in and around the box.
The final third stuff was rather brilliant for a first match as well. Fuckin Moyes.
Dave Abrahams
74 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:43:22
74 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:43:22
Happy with the win and Ndiaye playing as well as he did, MotM, will increase the likelihood he will go in this transfer window.
Playing on his wrong wing he still provided plenty with work rate up in attack and back defending; he is just great to watch. I hope he stays but will be disappointed if he goes.
Some good performances from three or four in Branthwaite, Dewsbury-Hall, Armstrong and George and nice to see Garner fit again.
Just beat Preston during the week to keep our spirits up!
Playing on his wrong wing he still provided plenty with work rate up in attack and back defending; he is just great to watch. I hope he stays but will be disappointed if he goes.
Some good performances from three or four in Branthwaite, Dewsbury-Hall, Armstrong and George and nice to see Garner fit again.
Just beat Preston during the week to keep our spirits up!
David West
75 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:46:08
75 Posted 22/08/2026 at 18:46:08
The key is. don't get too carried away when we win.
Don't get too down when we lose, which we inevitably will.
Don't rip Barry when he falls over his own feet, because he might bag one.
Don't get all hard over Armstrong and George because they will give the ball away and they will have bad games too, as young lads do.
Don't tear into Mykolenko when he turns and passes it backwards... again! Because he's our only decent left-back.
Let's not bollock Tarkowski for being on the downward slide that age brings, because now he's our captain, he's playing every game unless he's injured, which he never is!
We're not perfect, and I don't want Moyes to be our manager, but he is, and unless we are proper shite, no I mean proper, proper relegation shite, he's going nowhere.
We've got a young team here now that could develop into something; people want instant results, football isn't custard!!!
Don't get too down when we lose, which we inevitably will.
Don't rip Barry when he falls over his own feet, because he might bag one.
Don't get all hard over Armstrong and George because they will give the ball away and they will have bad games too, as young lads do.
Don't tear into Mykolenko when he turns and passes it backwards... again! Because he's our only decent left-back.
Let's not bollock Tarkowski for being on the downward slide that age brings, because now he's our captain, he's playing every game unless he's injured, which he never is!
We're not perfect, and I don't want Moyes to be our manager, but he is, and unless we are proper shite, no I mean proper, proper relegation shite, he's going nowhere.
We've got a young team here now that could develop into something; people want instant results, football isn't custard!!!
Tony Abrahams
76 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:07:00
76 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:07:00
I enjoyed the game and would also make Iliman Ndiaye the MotM, simply because he is not afraid to take the ball in dangerous areas, when there isn't much on.
Pickford's save was very important; I thought that the left side of our defence looked fine defensively, and although it was refreshing to see Rohl prepared to break forward from full-back, I thought this often left us wide open defensively on the right side.
Tarkowski, definitely missed having a stay-at-home right back because it's clear you need pace if you aren't getting as much defensive cover.
I also liked the way George was prepared to take the ball, and I thought our young two midfielders, Armstrong and Hackney, both had decent games. I liked Hackney's positioning in the middle of the park, and I think Armstrong will really improve the more games he plays.
Dewsbury-Hall scored a great goal and was involved in most of the good stuff we produced. Although Barry scored, I think it's absolutely imperative we sign another centre forward.
My gripe is the same gripe I have always had with regard to David Moyes. I always wish he would use his squad of players better, because I think he has got some very good players in his squad now.
We need a right-back, we need a striker, and we need the manager to change his ways and start using more of his squad players; if this happens, then I think we will have a good season.
What's a good season? More points on the board, or a season of ups and downs because we are using more young players and are trying to play a lot more progressive football?
I'd take the second choice especially because if we bring in a few more players, then I believe we could beat anyone on our day, which means, with a little bit of luck, we can finally go and win a cup.
Pickford's save was very important; I thought that the left side of our defence looked fine defensively, and although it was refreshing to see Rohl prepared to break forward from full-back, I thought this often left us wide open defensively on the right side.
Tarkowski, definitely missed having a stay-at-home right back because it's clear you need pace if you aren't getting as much defensive cover.
I also liked the way George was prepared to take the ball, and I thought our young two midfielders, Armstrong and Hackney, both had decent games. I liked Hackney's positioning in the middle of the park, and I think Armstrong will really improve the more games he plays.
Dewsbury-Hall scored a great goal and was involved in most of the good stuff we produced. Although Barry scored, I think it's absolutely imperative we sign another centre forward.
My gripe is the same gripe I have always had with regard to David Moyes. I always wish he would use his squad of players better, because I think he has got some very good players in his squad now.
We need a right-back, we need a striker, and we need the manager to change his ways and start using more of his squad players; if this happens, then I think we will have a good season.
What's a good season? More points on the board, or a season of ups and downs because we are using more young players and are trying to play a lot more progressive football?
I'd take the second choice especially because if we bring in a few more players, then I believe we could beat anyone on our day, which means, with a little bit of luck, we can finally go and win a cup.
Winston Williamson
77 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:09:00
77 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:09:00
Just back from the game. Not read any of the comments. I had a thoroughly enjoyable day. Couple of sketchy moments but overall I thought we played very well.
The midfield three were superb. George excellent and both full-backs were great. Barry looks a different player, other than one mis-control in the 1st half.
Very enjoyable match.
The midfield three were superb. George excellent and both full-backs were great. Barry looks a different player, other than one mis-control in the 1st half.
Very enjoyable match.
John Pickles
78 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:11:20
78 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:11:20
First opening day win in 5 years, and deservedly so in the second half.
Lucky (and Pickford's brilliance) that we weren't losing at half-time though, that defence was carved open too easily.
Heart in my mouth twice due to Branthwaite going down with a knock, I thought the season was over before it began.
George looks really promising, just needs an end product and he'll be some player. Can Armstrong train on a pitch with goal posts please. I think if he had to take a penalty, he'd still look for a pass.
Oh the enigma that is Barry! Great at getting on the scoresheet, but I doubt he could win a 50/50 with Little Bo Peep.
I'm impressed how may Everton players are difficult to dispossess with the ball.
Pickford MotM, slightly ahead of George.
Lucky (and Pickford's brilliance) that we weren't losing at half-time though, that defence was carved open too easily.
Heart in my mouth twice due to Branthwaite going down with a knock, I thought the season was over before it began.
George looks really promising, just needs an end product and he'll be some player. Can Armstrong train on a pitch with goal posts please. I think if he had to take a penalty, he'd still look for a pass.
Oh the enigma that is Barry! Great at getting on the scoresheet, but I doubt he could win a 50/50 with Little Bo Peep.
I'm impressed how may Everton players are difficult to dispossess with the ball.
Pickford MotM, slightly ahead of George.
David West
79 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:17:35
79 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:17:35
Tony A 76.
Agree, I'd rather watch them young lads today grow, with the ups and downs that will bring, but knowing every defeat is teaching them something. There's real potential with them.
To be patient in football is hard as a supporter but if you want Armstrong, Hackney, Rohl, George, Barry and Dibbling to develop, you have to be realistic and say it won't be overnight!
Agree, I'd rather watch them young lads today grow, with the ups and downs that will bring, but knowing every defeat is teaching them something. There's real potential with them.
To be patient in football is hard as a supporter but if you want Armstrong, Hackney, Rohl, George, Barry and Dibbling to develop, you have to be realistic and say it won't be overnight!
Micky Norman
80 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:18:35
80 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:18:35
David West @75. You need to be careful mate. Talking too much sense for ToffeeWeb (listed on Google as a gambling site btw).
Everton will be an exciting watch this season. Good young players, and I get the impression that Moyes is starting to trust them more.
Everton will be an exciting watch this season. Good young players, and I get the impression that Moyes is starting to trust them more.
Mal van Schaick
81 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:19:50
81 Posted 22/08/2026 at 19:19:50
We had some good fortune today and a world class save that kept us in the game. There was some impetus in driving forward from midfield on to the edge of the Palace area, creating some opportunities and Dewsbury-Hall and Barry got their goals.
Rohl did okay at full-back, but as we all know, we need to sign a recognised right-back, we were a little untidy defending some times, but more than made up for that with pacy counter-attacks.
I think that this squad will obviously be more tested by better opposition and we will find out in the next few weeks how our season will pan out, but for now, well done, a great result and let's keep the momentum going.
Rohl did okay at full-back, but as we all know, we need to sign a recognised right-back, we were a little untidy defending some times, but more than made up for that with pacy counter-attacks.
I think that this squad will obviously be more tested by better opposition and we will find out in the next few weeks how our season will pan out, but for now, well done, a great result and let's keep the momentum going.
Minik Hansen
82 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:14:01
82 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:14:01
I thought we missed Gueye, or at least a defensive midfielder, the midfield was too open at times, that took part in our luck of the outcome.
I can't wait to have Norgaard in his position -- or the Senegalese we were linked with -- but our midfield is overcrowded. The rest of the areas I thought were reasonable, and when the current squad gel in nicely, happy days.
I'd like to have seen how Aznou took his role in a Premier League game; I look forward to it, whenever that'll be.
I can't wait to have Norgaard in his position -- or the Senegalese we were linked with -- but our midfield is overcrowded. The rest of the areas I thought were reasonable, and when the current squad gel in nicely, happy days.
I'd like to have seen how Aznou took his role in a Premier League game; I look forward to it, whenever that'll be.
Lev Vellene
83 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:37:20
83 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:37:20
We were lucky in the first half, but this kind of team is actually what I've been wanting us to get for the past few decades! We have a sort-of young team, and we must expect them to make the occasional gaffe (happily, not today!).
It sort of feels like what Sir Alex's early Man Utd teams were like. We're not relying on old players, and we're not buying those on the cheap just to prop up mid-table dreams.
So I feel happy that Everton are actually seeming to build a proper team from mainly young players, and hopefully we'll be serious contenders for the European spots in a few seasons.
Still, I'm a life-long Evertonian, and reality be damned, which is why I'm hoping for that to be this season already, even if by some fluke... ;D
It sort of feels like what Sir Alex's early Man Utd teams were like. We're not relying on old players, and we're not buying those on the cheap just to prop up mid-table dreams.
So I feel happy that Everton are actually seeming to build a proper team from mainly young players, and hopefully we'll be serious contenders for the European spots in a few seasons.
Still, I'm a life-long Evertonian, and reality be damned, which is why I'm hoping for that to be this season already, even if by some fluke... ;D
Andrew Ellams
84 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:45:01
84 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:45:01
Every 3 points is a bonus but Tarkowski and Mykolenko are both liabilities, Rohl is a good player but not a full-back and we desperately need a striker still.
George has talent but isn't a Premier League starter yet... and finally we have a midfield that can compete at Premier League level.
George has talent but isn't a Premier League starter yet... and finally we have a midfield that can compete at Premier League level.
John Charles
85 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:49:23
85 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:49:23
From my seat, as the great Ken Buckley used to say… A decent if lucky(-ish) win.
Rohl was good offensively and tried hard defensively (and was substantially better than O'Brien at both). Tarkowski was truly awful in the first half but did get better.
Good debut from Hackney, George very promising.
Armstrong looks like a player, and Ndiaye very good. But my god, we need a centre-forward.
I know he scored but Barry (and even more so when he came on, Beto) was awful. Pickford is awesome!
Rohl was good offensively and tried hard defensively (and was substantially better than O'Brien at both). Tarkowski was truly awful in the first half but did get better.
Good debut from Hackney, George very promising.
Armstrong looks like a player, and Ndiaye very good. But my god, we need a centre-forward.
I know he scored but Barry (and even more so when he came on, Beto) was awful. Pickford is awesome!
Mike Gaynes
86 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:55:18
86 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:55:18
Jonathan #71, I don't think it will be next season that we go younger at centre-back.
I'd be willing to bet that O'Brien replaces Tarkowski before November, as long as Branthwaite stays healthy.
I'd be willing to bet that O'Brien replaces Tarkowski before November, as long as Branthwaite stays healthy.
Chris Davies
87 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:58:23
87 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:58:23
@Minik, I just wrote almost the exact same thing somewhere else!
The was a Gana-shaped whole in that midfield today. But it was exciting to have loads of ball players in there. When the ball turned over, we looked fucked every time. Better teams will put us to the sword.
I don't think the missing Jimmy Garner is the answer. Hopefully Norgaard is? But there are so many midfielders I wouldn't like to see dropped now. How strange?!
The was a Gana-shaped whole in that midfield today. But it was exciting to have loads of ball players in there. When the ball turned over, we looked fucked every time. Better teams will put us to the sword.
I don't think the missing Jimmy Garner is the answer. Hopefully Norgaard is? But there are so many midfielders I wouldn't like to see dropped now. How strange?!
Mike Gaynes
88 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:58:44
88 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:58:44
John #78, I'm also impressed with how many Everton players are difficult to dribble past.
Anybody taking on Ndiaye, Garner, Rohl, Armstrong and even Hackney is going to have a hell of a fight.
Our former future right-back, Munoz, is still trying to figure out how Armstrong so easily stripped him of the ball to set up our first goal.
Anybody taking on Ndiaye, Garner, Rohl, Armstrong and even Hackney is going to have a hell of a fight.
Our former future right-back, Munoz, is still trying to figure out how Armstrong so easily stripped him of the ball to set up our first goal.
Jonathan Oppenheimer
89 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:59:06
89 Posted 22/08/2026 at 20:59:06
Sorry, Mike, I wasn't clear. I meant that we would need to wait to bring in someone new to back up Jake and Jarrad. If Tarkowski is starting next season, or if Keane is still around, we will have a massive problem with recruitment.
As for your prediction about Jake starting in the next few months, the problem is, it will depend on how we're playing.
And my worry is if we're mid-table and Tarkowski hasn't cost us more than a goal or two, Moyes will be reluctant to bench our captain.
As for your prediction about Jake starting in the next few months, the problem is, it will depend on how we're playing.
And my worry is if we're mid-table and Tarkowski hasn't cost us more than a goal or two, Moyes will be reluctant to bench our captain.
Martin Berry
90 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:00:14
90 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:00:14
I suppose Moyes was lucky but not unlucky when his team loses?
Three points, we won, enjoy the weekend, more signings to come!
Three points, we won, enjoy the weekend, more signings to come!
Jonathan Oppenheimer
91 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:02:31
91 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:02:31
As for Munoz, my only hope is that his mediocre game and big give-away was both an early-season aberration and cause for his price to drop to £12M.
Sean Kearns
92 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:04:44
92 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:04:44
Our forward passing and “playing through the lines” today was great to see... very impressed. The save from Jordan in the first half onto the post was out of this world.
We looked much quicker and sharper in midfield without Gana. We are a quality centre-forward away from being proper dangerous… our defence and goalkeeper are good enough to bail us out from time to time that we can take risks going forward.
I don't think we missed Gana at all… can we please just play this same team in the cups and have a go!!… Spurs have spent £237M this summer and got bumped 0-3! UTFT
We looked much quicker and sharper in midfield without Gana. We are a quality centre-forward away from being proper dangerous… our defence and goalkeeper are good enough to bail us out from time to time that we can take risks going forward.
I don't think we missed Gana at all… can we please just play this same team in the cups and have a go!!… Spurs have spent £237M this summer and got bumped 0-3! UTFT
Kevin Molloy
93 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:17:18
93 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:17:18
I had to rewind the tape when Pickford made that save, it was a 'where did the ball go' moment again. He is a remarkable keeper.
Also, what. a fucking goal that was. Dewsbury-Hall is head and shoulders above the rest of our team going forward.
Also, what. a fucking goal that was. Dewsbury-Hall is head and shoulders above the rest of our team going forward.
David West
94 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:21:27
94 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:21:27
Johnthan @89
"If we're mid-table and Tarkowski hasn't cost us more than a goal or two" -- Wouldn't that mean he's playing OK?
If we are mid-table and our centre-back hasn't cost us a goal or two, I'd suggest our problems would further forward, in midfield and attack.
"If we're mid-table and Tarkowski hasn't cost us more than a goal or two" -- Wouldn't that mean he's playing OK?
If we are mid-table and our centre-back hasn't cost us a goal or two, I'd suggest our problems would further forward, in midfield and attack.
John Collins
95 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:24:17
95 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:24:17
Two straight balls over Tarkowski's head first half, resulting in chances.
He improved into the game.
He improved into the game.
Micky Norman
96 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:25:12
96 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:25:12
Who looked the better right-back today?
Munoz or Rohl?
Munoz or Rohl?
Minik Hansen
97 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:29:35
97 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:29:35
Sean, of course we could feel Gana ageing over the last few seasons, but the fact that we need a defensive anchor in the middle was obvious.
Let's see in the next few games if it gets better with the ones who had the defensive responsibilities in the middle today.
Let's see in the next few games if it gets better with the ones who had the defensive responsibilities in the middle today.
John Collins
98 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:35:11
98 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:35:11
Sean,
The main one in that role for us is yet to play. I think he will go with Norgaard or Hackney. Where that leaves Armstrong, I don't know...
The main one in that role for us is yet to play. I think he will go with Norgaard or Hackney. Where that leaves Armstrong, I don't know...
John Collins
99 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:36:50
99 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:36:50
Apologies.
98 was for Minik
98 was for Minik
Ryan Holroyd
100 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:37:49
100 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:37:49
Some Everton ‘supporters' have spent all summer winging like little schoolchildren but this team looks quite fun.
Plenty of players comfortable on the ball, George looking a good player.
Hackney looks a steal at an initial £16M and Armstrong is comfortable at this level.
Average age of the team getting younger.
Two more additions and we're looking up.
Plenty of players comfortable on the ball, George looking a good player.
Hackney looks a steal at an initial £16M and Armstrong is comfortable at this level.
Average age of the team getting younger.
Two more additions and we're looking up.
David West
101 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:41:26
101 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:41:26
John 95. Oh, not defending Tarkowski, just seems some people want players to perform badly to get them out of the team.
Didn't have much to do second half, but when teams apply consistent pressure, he does look ragged and last-ditch a lot of the time.
Didn't have much to do second half, but when teams apply consistent pressure, he does look ragged and last-ditch a lot of the time.
Brendan McLaughlin
102 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:59:08
102 Posted 22/08/2026 at 21:59:08
Good day capped by a fine Everton win.
Great start to the season.
Entertaining game in which Everton did most of the entertaining.
Great start to the season.
Entertaining game in which Everton did most of the entertaining.
Minik Hansen
103 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:03:04
103 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:03:04
John, yes, only time will tell. Armstrong will at the very least be a back-up, with the cup run aim in mind and all.
Andrew Merrick
104 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:12:02
104 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:12:02
Like many posters here, I saw some positives: more energy, quicker passing, faster transition... it didn't work every time, and we did leave some gaps that nearly cost us, but wasn't it a better game to watch? I think neutrals would say so.
If we get a good right-back bedded in, a solid defensive midfielder keeping things tidy, and a quality striker this window, we will be cooking!
We have some really good young players with true potential; for the first time in ages, we look interesting, like a forgotten switch has been turned on again.
The manager's hand may have been forced, but not for the first time it has bought a positive outcome. Go 'ed blues!
If we get a good right-back bedded in, a solid defensive midfielder keeping things tidy, and a quality striker this window, we will be cooking!
We have some really good young players with true potential; for the first time in ages, we look interesting, like a forgotten switch has been turned on again.
The manager's hand may have been forced, but not for the first time it has bought a positive outcome. Go 'ed blues!
Brendan McLaughlin
105 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:27:53
105 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:27:53
Can't remember how many posts I read from Blues not "fooking looking forward" to a new season of football.
I couldn't wait.
Great start.
I couldn't wait.
Great start.
Jonathan Oppenheimer
106 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:31:26
106 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:31:26
David 94, I get your point about Tarkowski, but a few things. I'd never want any of our players to fail. Also, maybe I should've added, “If we're mid-table, he's been at least partly responsible for 3-4 goals, and he's also consistently showing signs that while he can block shots and head balls away with the best of them, he's consistently a step slow.”
I understand the need for leadership and toughness and all that. But Jake needs game time, plus he's quicker and a better passer and more tidy on the ball. Sure, he'll make mistakes there, too.
I believe we'd be no worse off with him partnering Branthwaite and likely better, but even if they're equal, I'd prefer we're playing the younger player who we want there for the next 5 years.
I understand the need for leadership and toughness and all that. But Jake needs game time, plus he's quicker and a better passer and more tidy on the ball. Sure, he'll make mistakes there, too.
I believe we'd be no worse off with him partnering Branthwaite and likely better, but even if they're equal, I'd prefer we're playing the younger player who we want there for the next 5 years.
Dale Self
107 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:40:10
107 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:40:10
I'm not looking forward to your next posts, Brendan.
Rocco Bugaj
108 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:43:11
108 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:43:11
At the start of the match, Palace looked much more structured and better. It really took a while for us to get into the game.
With a lot of luck and a massive amount of effort, we managed to win it in the end. Pickford, George, Röhl, and Dewsbury-Hall were the best players today.
With a lot of luck and a massive amount of effort, we managed to win it in the end. Pickford, George, Röhl, and Dewsbury-Hall were the best players today.
Nicolas Piñon
109 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:43:23
109 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:43:23
A win is always welcome, though in the first half we could be losing by two easily. Happy for the result. But not carried away.
We can grow, but there are too many “ifs” on the way. Because with Branthwaite in today, Tarkowski made amateur mistakes that due to Palace's bad finishes didn't cost us. Imagine if Branthwaite gets an injury, our defence is done, unless we get a backup centre-back. Or touch wood he keeps fit.
Our midfield looks good. But we have no defensive midfielder. Of course we need to give the team time, but that's a key position.
Tarkowski is done for me. He's an absolute liability. Reality check for Moyes.
We can grow, but there are too many “ifs” on the way. Because with Branthwaite in today, Tarkowski made amateur mistakes that due to Palace's bad finishes didn't cost us. Imagine if Branthwaite gets an injury, our defence is done, unless we get a backup centre-back. Or touch wood he keeps fit.
Our midfield looks good. But we have no defensive midfielder. Of course we need to give the team time, but that's a key position.
Tarkowski is done for me. He's an absolute liability. Reality check for Moyes.
Chris Davies
110 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:52:33
110 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:52:33
Jonathan @106,
I actually thing Jake O'Brien is a much more clunky footballer than Tarkowski is. But he has pace, and is probably a better defender.
When you see Jake's touch and miss-passes, I can understand why both Dyche and Moyes haven't been keen to stick him in the fire yet.
I actually thing Jake O'Brien is a much more clunky footballer than Tarkowski is. But he has pace, and is probably a better defender.
When you see Jake's touch and miss-passes, I can understand why both Dyche and Moyes haven't been keen to stick him in the fire yet.
Brendan McLaughlin
111 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:59:58
111 Posted 22/08/2026 at 22:59:58
Dale #107
Next posts... it's nearly eleven o' clock.
I've amused two 4-year-olds and a 2-year-old for most of the day. Bit like Toffeewdb BTW.
Unless Jerome Shields posts... I'm going to bed mate.
Next posts... it's nearly eleven o' clock.
I've amused two 4-year-olds and a 2-year-old for most of the day. Bit like Toffeewdb BTW.
Unless Jerome Shields posts... I'm going to bed mate.
Sean Herbert
112 Posted 22/08/2026 at 23:08:21
112 Posted 22/08/2026 at 23:08:21
Andy @ 65, what an utter load of shite.
I want Moyes gone but have never, ever, hoped Everton lose any game.
As for the Man Utd thing, it's well documented how that went down. Remind me how many times Moyes refused to say what his intentions were.
Good result though today and some extremely promising performances.
I want Moyes gone but have never, ever, hoped Everton lose any game.
As for the Man Utd thing, it's well documented how that went down. Remind me how many times Moyes refused to say what his intentions were.
Good result though today and some extremely promising performances.
Chris Davies
113 Posted 22/08/2026 at 23:33:16
113 Posted 22/08/2026 at 23:33:16
Can we weigh in on my fit eleven.. 3-2-4-1
Pickford
O'Brien Tarkowsky Branthwaite
Armstrong Norgaard
Garner Hackney Dewsbury-Hall George
Barry
Pickford
O'Brien Tarkowsky Branthwaite
Armstrong Norgaard
Garner Hackney Dewsbury-Hall George
Barry
Rocco Bugaj
115 Posted 22/08/2026 at 00:03:06
115 Posted 22/08/2026 at 00:03:06
Chris @114,
The defence is too weak for my liking. The players aren't used to a back three. My lineup would be:
Pickford
???? O'Brien Branthwaite Aznou
Armstrong Norgaard
Garner Dewsbury-Hall George
Barry
Maybe Moyes will give a few younger players a shot for once.
The defence is too weak for my liking. The players aren't used to a back three. My lineup would be:
Pickford
???? O'Brien Branthwaite Aznou
Armstrong Norgaard
Garner Dewsbury-Hall George
Barry
Maybe Moyes will give a few younger players a shot for once.
Jonathan Oppenheimer
116 Posted 22/08/2026 at 00:20:02
116 Posted 22/08/2026 at 00:20:02
Chris 114, that lineup is madness, first because you’re excluding Ndiaye, but how do you play a back 3 and not have any wingbacks.
Chris 110, say what you will about Jake’s flaws, he can’t get better without playing in his preferred and best position. It’s time now to play him at CB.
Chris 110, say what you will about Jake’s flaws, he can’t get better without playing in his preferred and best position. It’s time now to play him at CB.
Paul Griffiths
117 Posted 23/08/2026 at 03:03:17
117 Posted 23/08/2026 at 03:03:17
ANDREA JACOBS (51): What a pathetic and yellow post. Why don’t you have the courage to name one poster – just one- who ‘wanted us to be shite so you can lay into Moyes’. You won’t be able to will you (oh, and we will need words/evidence) because in the first place there isn’t one, and in the second place you won’t be able to and you don’t have the courage. The worst kind of snidey sour ignorant post.
We have all the evidence that we need for the nature of your post because chief moysterbater ANDY WALKER (51) ‘completely’ agreed with you. Classic Walker @71.
We have all the evidence that we need for the nature of your post because chief moysterbater ANDY WALKER (51) ‘completely’ agreed with you. Classic Walker @71.
Steve Brown
118 Posted 23/08/2026 at 03:11:38
118 Posted 23/08/2026 at 03:11:38
Very friendly chat between KDH and Munoz at the full-time whistle. Munoz was hopefully asking for a lift to training when he signs.
Moyes picked an attacking side and made the necessary tactical changes at half-time so we weren’t so open on the break.Norgaard will make a big difference to the team when he is fit.
The only things that annoyed me on a positive result was the delay in putting fresh subs on - 79th, 84th and 94th minute.
By the time we made our first substitution, Palace already had 5 fresh pair of legs on the field. Really daft.
Moyes picked an attacking side and made the necessary tactical changes at half-time so we weren’t so open on the break.Norgaard will make a big difference to the team when he is fit.
The only things that annoyed me on a positive result was the delay in putting fresh subs on - 79th, 84th and 94th minute.
By the time we made our first substitution, Palace already had 5 fresh pair of legs on the field. Really daft.
Paul Griffiths
119 Posted 23/08/2026 at 03:37:19
119 Posted 23/08/2026 at 03:37:19
Agree on the subs Steve (119). I do think that the best use of subs is to make them whenever needed in reaction to the way in which the game is unfolding and the decisions made by the gaffer in the other dugout.
On that basis, Moyes should have made subs earlier. The sixth substitution of the game was our first.
That said, I was pleased with the starting XI and yes we rode our luck a fair bit in the first half in particular, but we deserved to win. It is Pickford who is our talisman and he showed again today why this is.
The argument for Harrison Armstrong to go out on loan is empty, vacuous, and just plain wrong. He is more than PL ready and he was last season after he came back. So, the worry here is the little bit of time Moyes gave him after February. But he started him today and if he doesn't next weekend. Well let's see.
Armstrong, Hackney, Branthwaite, and Ndiaye were all reasons to be cheerful today.
On that basis, Moyes should have made subs earlier. The sixth substitution of the game was our first.
That said, I was pleased with the starting XI and yes we rode our luck a fair bit in the first half in particular, but we deserved to win. It is Pickford who is our talisman and he showed again today why this is.
The argument for Harrison Armstrong to go out on loan is empty, vacuous, and just plain wrong. He is more than PL ready and he was last season after he came back. So, the worry here is the little bit of time Moyes gave him after February. But he started him today and if he doesn't next weekend. Well let's see.
Armstrong, Hackney, Branthwaite, and Ndiaye were all reasons to be cheerful today.
Steve Brown
120 Posted 23/08/2026 at 04:50:29
120 Posted 23/08/2026 at 04:50:29
Paul mate, the key thing for me is that the senior pros like Norgaard and Garner should earn their recall to the team before they are selected.
Armonstrong, Hackney, George and Rohl deserved to start after their pre-season form. Nothing will demotivate them more than getting dropped when they are playing well.
Pickford is the best keeper in the Premier League imo.
We do need a right-back and a striker as top priorities, but I also think we should to be considering another CB and LB. Tarkowski is slowing down and has an unforced error in him every game, while Myko has a positive attitude but isn’t good enough defensively or going forward.
Think Patterson and Alcaraz will be sold before the close of the window.
Armonstrong, Hackney, George and Rohl deserved to start after their pre-season form. Nothing will demotivate them more than getting dropped when they are playing well.
Pickford is the best keeper in the Premier League imo.
We do need a right-back and a striker as top priorities, but I also think we should to be considering another CB and LB. Tarkowski is slowing down and has an unforced error in him every game, while Myko has a positive attitude but isn’t good enough defensively or going forward.
Think Patterson and Alcaraz will be sold before the close of the window.
Andy Meighan
121 Posted 23/08/2026 at 05:55:43
121 Posted 23/08/2026 at 05:55:43
Weve got some cracking young players here now, but I will say this if Moyes was to remove Armstrong from the sheet there'd be uproar.
This is a kid with an old head on young shoulders and the top( yawn) clubs will come sniffing no doubt about it.
Great win rode our luck but so do they all, but we have to get a right back in and a striker.
This is a kid with an old head on young shoulders and the top( yawn) clubs will come sniffing no doubt about it.
Great win rode our luck but so do they all, but we have to get a right back in and a striker.
Andy Walker
122 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:25:10
122 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:25:10
PAUL GRIFFITHS complaining rather too loudly about the idea a certain cohort of fan wants Everton to lose so Moyes will be sacked. Everyone has a right to an opinion, when it touches one of thin skinned Griffiths nerves he really doesn’t like it.
Try and enjoy the result, it was a really encouraging performance, from a team benefiting more and more from Moyes’ influence.
Try and enjoy the result, it was a really encouraging performance, from a team benefiting more and more from Moyes’ influence.
Paul Griffiths
123 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:26:12
123 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:26:12
That Andy Meighan fella doesn't half go on and on about needing a new striker and right-back. He reminds me of his fellow scouser Hyacinth Bucket (Well, she was born in Tranmere).
Paul Griffiths
124 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:35:20
124 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:35:20
ANDY WALKER PAUL GRIFFITHS complaining rather too loudly about the idea a certain cohort of fan wants Everton to lose so Moyes will be sacked. Everyone has a right to an opinion, when it touches one of thin skinned Griffiths nerves he really doesn’t like it.
What a deluded derisory dare I say dreary response. How exactly, chief Moyesterbater, does someone stupidly saying that people want us to lose to break Moyes erm touch one of my erm 'thin skinned' nerves?
Again, you write characteristic empty blather but I'm going to help you. I am. This is from me to you. An olive branch extending across 3.000 miles of water. Your escape clause. Can.you precisely explain in a concise,coherent, articulate, and intelligent manner why someone stupidly saying that people want us to lose to break Moyes erm touches one of my erm 'thin skinned' nerves.
Go on lad. I believe.
I think it's outrageous that some people call you a XXXXXXXX. I really do.
What a deluded derisory dare I say dreary response. How exactly, chief Moyesterbater, does someone stupidly saying that people want us to lose to break Moyes erm touch one of my erm 'thin skinned' nerves?
Again, you write characteristic empty blather but I'm going to help you. I am. This is from me to you. An olive branch extending across 3.000 miles of water. Your escape clause. Can.you precisely explain in a concise,coherent, articulate, and intelligent manner why someone stupidly saying that people want us to lose to break Moyes erm touches one of my erm 'thin skinned' nerves.
Go on lad. I believe.
I think it's outrageous that some people call you a XXXXXXXX. I really do.
Ian Bennett
125 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:38:17
125 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:38:17
I thought it was tricky to know exactly where to make the substitution changes at 2-0 up and all playing well in the second half, with Palace offering little.
The miss by Ndiaye would have put the game to bed, but a goal from Palace would've piled the pressure on if the changes were made and control was lost.
In the end, I thought he got it right, although Ndiaye was probably done with about 10-15 to go.
I'd still take Grealish. The team played well, but that type of player in the squad would offer something different when direct pace doesn't work. Alcaraz can go.
The miss by Ndiaye would have put the game to bed, but a goal from Palace would've piled the pressure on if the changes were made and control was lost.
In the end, I thought he got it right, although Ndiaye was probably done with about 10-15 to go.
I'd still take Grealish. The team played well, but that type of player in the squad would offer something different when direct pace doesn't work. Alcaraz can go.
Paul Griffiths
126 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:44:12
126 Posted 23/08/2026 at 07:44:12
Fair point Ian B 126, second paragraph.
Watching the match a second time, I now think that Ndiaye was our MOM, a smidgen ahead of Harrison. But you're right, he was tiring. Compare with my current favourite player, Elise, who has been back in training four days and was superb v Dortmund.
Watching the match a second time, I now think that Ndiaye was our MOM, a smidgen ahead of Harrison. But you're right, he was tiring. Compare with my current favourite player, Elise, who has been back in training four days and was superb v Dortmund.
Andy Walker
127 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:01:53
127 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:01:53
Ironically PAUL GRIFFITHS the content and tone of your post 124 gives you the answer to your own question. Unfortunately you can’t see it though.
Paul Griffiths
128 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:15:17
128 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:15:17
AW, you're a joke. You really have no relevant, articulate, meaningful responses do you?
So, in the spirit of me helping you, let me slightly rephrase my question that you did not answer but, I still believe, you might actually answer.
Here goes. Last chance. I can only do so much, bed beckons.
Can.you precisely explain in a concise,coherent, articulate, and intelligent manner why someone stupidly saying that people want us to lose to break Moyes erm touches one of my erm 'thin skinned' nerves, and, include your thinking in 127 in reaction to me at 124.
Go on. Last chance. I only have so much time for your robotic type. I think that you can write more than 2 sentences to do this.
So, in the spirit of me helping you, let me slightly rephrase my question that you did not answer but, I still believe, you might actually answer.
Here goes. Last chance. I can only do so much, bed beckons.
Can.you precisely explain in a concise,coherent, articulate, and intelligent manner why someone stupidly saying that people want us to lose to break Moyes erm touches one of my erm 'thin skinned' nerves, and, include your thinking in 127 in reaction to me at 124.
Go on. Last chance. I only have so much time for your robotic type. I think that you can write more than 2 sentences to do this.
Phil Roberts
129 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:23:56
129 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:23:56
Get the feeling Andrew #84 did not see the match or just trotting out the normal moan. All the stuff I have read is that Mykolenko had a good game and as Ajay put it - a left sided Tony Hibbert.
Or Andrew, did you think Hibbo was a liability?
Or Andrew, did you think Hibbo was a liability?
Brent Stephens
130 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:24:18
130 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:24:18
Dale #107 "I'm not looking forward to your next posts, Brendan".
Given Brendan's post #105, I think you're actually "not looking forward" to Brendan's posts in the anticipation that they will in fact be good posts?!
Given Brendan's post #105, I think you're actually "not looking forward" to Brendan's posts in the anticipation that they will in fact be good posts?!
Dave Abrahams
131 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:36:29
131 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:36:29
I thought that Tarkowski did a lot more good things than the two poor bad ones and he was left covering that right-back position a couple of times with Rohl not back in place. It will take a really bad performance by Tarkowski before I give up on him — that wasn't one of them.
One good thing like a goal will wipe out all the poor things a player has done in the game and one mistake makes him a handicap, my MotM was in the game from start to finish, attacking and defending, but never got many votes on another Everton website.
One good thing like a goal will wipe out all the poor things a player has done in the game and one mistake makes him a handicap, my MotM was in the game from start to finish, attacking and defending, but never got many votes on another Everton website.
Laurie Hartley
132 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:41:14
132 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:41:14
I was very encouraged by that performance. He may be dour but I'll hold my hands up -- there was nothing dour about that.
Seeing those youngsters running at the opposition was a breath of fresh air. George in particular excites me. He goes at them and does not hesitate to shoot if he sees an opportunity. It also looks like the senior players trust them.
Ndiaye and Dewsbury-Hall have also started the season on blob -- Great!
First part of my pre-match two-stage wishlist (a good win against Palace) achieved... Now for a big week in the transfer market.
Seeing those youngsters running at the opposition was a breath of fresh air. George in particular excites me. He goes at them and does not hesitate to shoot if he sees an opportunity. It also looks like the senior players trust them.
Ndiaye and Dewsbury-Hall have also started the season on blob -- Great!
First part of my pre-match two-stage wishlist (a good win against Palace) achieved... Now for a big week in the transfer market.
Andy Walker
133 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:57:14
133 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:57:14
Paul Griffiths.
As I stated, ‘Unfortunately you can't see it though'. Post 128 now added to 124 as the evidence of your thin skin and touchy nerves.
Less is more, Paul. Your verbosity is another clue you miss.
As I stated, ‘Unfortunately you can't see it though'. Post 128 now added to 124 as the evidence of your thin skin and touchy nerves.
Less is more, Paul. Your verbosity is another clue you miss.
Brendan McLaughlin
134 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:58:03
134 Posted 23/08/2026 at 08:58:03
Thanks Brent mate #130
Law of averages and all that... has to happen sometime
Law of averages and all that... has to happen sometime
Paul Griffiths
135 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:03:23
135 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:03:23
I'm done with you, Walker. Down with you, you parched pedant. You have nothing to offer apart from Moyesturbation. You couldn't respond to my reasonable questions in the reasonable, intelligent, and articulate way that I generously respond to you.
I asked with little hope for something a tad or smidgen precise.
Didn't get it. I just flicked you off my wrist.
I asked with little hope for something a tad or smidgen precise.
Didn't get it. I just flicked you off my wrist.
Michael Kenrick
136 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:07:40
136 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:07:40
Rocco,
Maybe Moyes will give a few younger players a shot for once.
Funny you should say that... because it's really what Moyes did today. He trusted the young players to form the bulk of the team. I nearly wrote something when I saw the line-up. And in the main, they did really well.
But as Moyes changed? I fully expect him to play Norgaard every game for which he is fit, and that means dropping Armstrong. There's Garner to fit in as well... it's going to be interesting!
ps: Submitting your posts in Hoch Deutsch is doing my head in, Rocco. Can you please use Gemini or Google Translate and paste in the English version? Then I can have your posts show straight away. Danke Schon!
Maybe Moyes will give a few younger players a shot for once.
Funny you should say that... because it's really what Moyes did today. He trusted the young players to form the bulk of the team. I nearly wrote something when I saw the line-up. And in the main, they did really well.
But as Moyes changed? I fully expect him to play Norgaard every game for which he is fit, and that means dropping Armstrong. There's Garner to fit in as well... it's going to be interesting!
ps: Submitting your posts in Hoch Deutsch is doing my head in, Rocco. Can you please use Gemini or Google Translate and paste in the English version? Then I can have your posts show straight away. Danke Schon!
Steve Brown
137 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:08:28
137 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:08:28
No Evertonian wants the team to lose ever, under any circumstances.
To claim otherwise is laughable nonsense.
To claim otherwise is laughable nonsense.
Tony Abrahams
138 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:11:15
138 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:11:15
I didn’t think it was tricky Ian, for exactly the reasons you state.
Palace weren’t offering that much but they had began to look the fresher team, after making four subs, imo, and my own view is that we could have replaced our wide players, KDH and Barry, and gave a few more players a run out.
My view is that players naturally tire playing in their first proper competitive game, for three months, and I thought that the game was won around the seventy minute mark. I know it’s professional football, but the game has changed and it’s more about nurturing a squad rather than thirteen or fourteen players nowadays.
You know the kid from Arsenal will waltz straight in, as will Grealish, if he comes back, so the players who were sitting on their arses yesterday, will be sitting there thinking, this bastard doesn’t really fancy me, instead of being made to feel part of the team, with the game already won.
The last twenty minutes was an exercise in seeing out the win. I thought that the last twenty minutes could have been about keeping the energy up by introducing more players, and going for a couple more goals. We all see a different game, mine is that you will get a lot more out of your players, if you keep some involved by rotating, and keep a few more players that little bit fresher, by doing the same thing.
Palace weren’t offering that much but they had began to look the fresher team, after making four subs, imo, and my own view is that we could have replaced our wide players, KDH and Barry, and gave a few more players a run out.
My view is that players naturally tire playing in their first proper competitive game, for three months, and I thought that the game was won around the seventy minute mark. I know it’s professional football, but the game has changed and it’s more about nurturing a squad rather than thirteen or fourteen players nowadays.
You know the kid from Arsenal will waltz straight in, as will Grealish, if he comes back, so the players who were sitting on their arses yesterday, will be sitting there thinking, this bastard doesn’t really fancy me, instead of being made to feel part of the team, with the game already won.
The last twenty minutes was an exercise in seeing out the win. I thought that the last twenty minutes could have been about keeping the energy up by introducing more players, and going for a couple more goals. We all see a different game, mine is that you will get a lot more out of your players, if you keep some involved by rotating, and keep a few more players that little bit fresher, by doing the same thing.
Paul Griffiths
139 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:14:24
139 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:14:24
Steve, we have to deal with these Andrea Walker over-stretched mice all the time. No idea why they exist. No one hates Moyes. If he succeeds, we succeed.
Is he our best manager moving forward? No. That's an entirely reasonable and respectable response.
Is he our best manager moving forward? No. That's an entirely reasonable and respectable response.
Andy Walker
140 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:16:42
140 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:16:42
I responded GRIFFITHS, but as I initially stated you’d never see it. I was right.
David West
141 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:20:21
141 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:20:21
Yes MK.
Moyes said in his post match, Hackney & Armstrong played because of the injuries.
He wouldn't have put Hackney in straight away, and Armstrongs only 19 remember he said.
If everyone was fit I'd expect Garner & Norgard to start.
He's not changed, this selection came out of necessity.
But he has to use these players more that cameos, Garner & KDH were goosed near the end of the season, there's an opportunity to keep the team fresher, with these 2 playing more often, showed they are capable.
Moyes said in his post match, Hackney & Armstrong played because of the injuries.
He wouldn't have put Hackney in straight away, and Armstrongs only 19 remember he said.
If everyone was fit I'd expect Garner & Norgard to start.
He's not changed, this selection came out of necessity.
But he has to use these players more that cameos, Garner & KDH were goosed near the end of the season, there's an opportunity to keep the team fresher, with these 2 playing more often, showed they are capable.
Steve Brown
142 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:21:27
142 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:21:27
Mike @ 136,
The manager will play Norgaard - Garner - Dewsbury-Hall unless one of them is injured - we all know it. He will put Armstrong, Rohl and Hackney on the bench. If we bring back Jack Grealish, George will join them.
I only hope the senior players earn their recall rather than having it handed to them on a plate. Tarkowski doesn’t have to justify his place as “captain” despite making unforced errors every game, but the rest should.
The manager will play Norgaard - Garner - Dewsbury-Hall unless one of them is injured - we all know it. He will put Armstrong, Rohl and Hackney on the bench. If we bring back Jack Grealish, George will join them.
I only hope the senior players earn their recall rather than having it handed to them on a plate. Tarkowski doesn’t have to justify his place as “captain” despite making unforced errors every game, but the rest should.
Steve Brown
143 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:26:04
143 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:26:04
Paul @ 139, don’t give them a second thought.
Moyes isn’t the future, but if he wins a cup this season he will go out with his head held high.
Will he do it? He will need to change his approach big time.
Moyes isn’t the future, but if he wins a cup this season he will go out with his head held high.
Will he do it? He will need to change his approach big time.
David West
144 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:29:43
144 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:29:43
Johnthan 106.
Of course if tarks is playing badly I too would want him out the team.
I hope Jake is given a go at some point, my guess would be he'll play him in the cup midweek, alongside tarks though as they manage jarreds minutes.
I don't think as you say Jake is that good on the ball though, he's got to prove he's worth his place at CB yet, which he hasn't had the opportunity in good run of games, but we all hope he gets it and takes it.
Of course if tarks is playing badly I too would want him out the team.
I hope Jake is given a go at some point, my guess would be he'll play him in the cup midweek, alongside tarks though as they manage jarreds minutes.
I don't think as you say Jake is that good on the ball though, he's got to prove he's worth his place at CB yet, which he hasn't had the opportunity in good run of games, but we all hope he gets it and takes it.
Rocco Bugaj
145 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:58:47
145 Posted 23/08/2026 at 09:58:47
Michael @136,
Hi Michael, thanks a lot for your efforts! I didn't realize you had to translate my standard German — I thought that happened automatically. On my phone, I see everything in German, whereas my wife sees it in English.
Regarding the younger players: I forgot to mention that I meant "in defence." Otherwise, I was also very pleasantly surprised by the lineup yesterday.
Hi Michael, thanks a lot for your efforts! I didn't realize you had to translate my standard German — I thought that happened automatically. On my phone, I see everything in German, whereas my wife sees it in English.
Regarding the younger players: I forgot to mention that I meant "in defence." Otherwise, I was also very pleasantly surprised by the lineup yesterday.
Jeff Armstrong
146 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:07:20
146 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:07:20
Interesting calls for Moyes on Wednesday v Preston, does he change a winning team?
I think he will, but we should still have too much for Preston if he shuffles yesterday's 20. And that's without Aznou and Norgaard.
Just leave Pickford in goal, he's not tired.
I think he will, but we should still have too much for Preston if he shuffles yesterday's 20. And that's without Aznou and Norgaard.
Just leave Pickford in goal, he's not tired.
Brian Harrison
147 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:19:57
147 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:19:57
We certainly could have been 2 down before we scored but a great save from Pickford and an awful miss from Mateta and an absolute brilliant goal from Dewsbury Hall turned the half on its head. I thought it was a big ask for both Armstrong and Hackney to play in central midfield probably the hardest position on the pitch, but as the game went on they got better. Certainly Armstrongs closing down helped create our first goal, and Hackneys quick thinking to give Ndaiye the ball so early helped create the 2nd goal. I always felt 1 goal might not be enough and the 2nd gave us that breathing space, and Ndaiye nearly added a 3rd goal. I am hopeful that we can bring in a couple more before the window shuts.While Rohl did well going forward he made a couple of mistakes at the back which could have been costly.
I guess IF we get a right back in then where does that leave O,Brien, will he be happy sitting on the bench for large parts of the season as it looks like Tarkowski and Branthwaite are Moyes preferred CB pairing. Also with Norgaard, Garner, Hackney and Harrison ahead of Rohl in midfield he might also find himself bench warming for large parts of the season.
I guess IF we get a right back in then where does that leave O,Brien, will he be happy sitting on the bench for large parts of the season as it looks like Tarkowski and Branthwaite are Moyes preferred CB pairing. Also with Norgaard, Garner, Hackney and Harrison ahead of Rohl in midfield he might also find himself bench warming for large parts of the season.
Derek Knox
148 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:36:16
148 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:36:16
Having been at the game yesterday, by courtesy of my mate Bill Griffiths, I don't quite get the criticism levelled at Merlin Rohl.
Bearing in mind he is not a natural right-back, and was standing in, I thought he was good overall, with a tireless running display, and even getting into the last third!
I couldn't really point any fingers although the defence in general rode their luck too often, which thankfully worked, but against sterner opposition, could come unstuck.
Bearing in mind he is not a natural right-back, and was standing in, I thought he was good overall, with a tireless running display, and even getting into the last third!
I couldn't really point any fingers although the defence in general rode their luck too often, which thankfully worked, but against sterner opposition, could come unstuck.
Andy Walker
149 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:48:47
149 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:48:47
Griffiths 139 wrote ‘no one hates Moyes’.
I think any reasonable person would conclude a fan (not Griffiths) who writes on this site ‘We are stuck with this energy-sapping parasite until he gets sacked (again).’ likely hates Moyes.
I think any reasonable person would conclude a fan (not Griffiths) who writes on this site ‘We are stuck with this energy-sapping parasite until he gets sacked (again).’ likely hates Moyes.
John Collins
150 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:55:11
150 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:55:11
Too much hating in today's world.
Strong dislike, lack of respect for him and his bluffing covers it for me.
Strong dislike, lack of respect for him and his bluffing covers it for me.
Rob Hooton
151 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:56:01
151 Posted 23/08/2026 at 10:56:01
A pleasing win to start the season, a rare treat!
As everyone noted, we rode our luck a couple of times in the first half, as well as a magnificent save from Pickford. We also had a couple of decent penalty shouts and chances before KDH scored his peach of a goal, I was relieved to go in 1-0 up at half time.
First 15 minutes of the second half we played some sublime football and put Palace to the sword. I think people are reading too much into their early substitutions - they were more desperate than anything IMO. I’d still have liked to see Dibbling given some minutes given how well he has played preseason.
As for Tarkowski, I’m with Dave A and thought he did more good than bad as Röhl went missing on occasion and left huge amounts of space, he improved as the game went on. I don’t think Jake even gets picked at CB for his national team? I think he may still have much to learn before staking a claim there for us.
If we keep Ndiaye (which I hope we do) then we have four young wingers that all offer something different, if we want them to play and improve then adding Grealish would be too much as we are now well stacked in midfield - if he does come, then that means we have probably sold Ndiaye or will see Dibbling go on loan. Seems a waste to me given what we saw yesterday.
Onwards and upwards please Blues!!
As everyone noted, we rode our luck a couple of times in the first half, as well as a magnificent save from Pickford. We also had a couple of decent penalty shouts and chances before KDH scored his peach of a goal, I was relieved to go in 1-0 up at half time.
First 15 minutes of the second half we played some sublime football and put Palace to the sword. I think people are reading too much into their early substitutions - they were more desperate than anything IMO. I’d still have liked to see Dibbling given some minutes given how well he has played preseason.
As for Tarkowski, I’m with Dave A and thought he did more good than bad as Röhl went missing on occasion and left huge amounts of space, he improved as the game went on. I don’t think Jake even gets picked at CB for his national team? I think he may still have much to learn before staking a claim there for us.
If we keep Ndiaye (which I hope we do) then we have four young wingers that all offer something different, if we want them to play and improve then adding Grealish would be too much as we are now well stacked in midfield - if he does come, then that means we have probably sold Ndiaye or will see Dibbling go on loan. Seems a waste to me given what we saw yesterday.
Onwards and upwards please Blues!!
Dave Abrahams
152 Posted 23/08/2026 at 12:33:29
152 Posted 23/08/2026 at 12:33:29
Rob (151),
Yes, I thought that George and Ndiaye both had good games but I was waiting for them to switch wings now and again just to keep the Palace defenders guessing as well as giving Ndiaye a go on his preferred wing.
George deserved a goal but that will come the more he plays.
Yes, I thought that George and Ndiaye both had good games but I was waiting for them to switch wings now and again just to keep the Palace defenders guessing as well as giving Ndiaye a go on his preferred wing.
George deserved a goal but that will come the more he plays.
Raymond Fox
153 Posted 23/08/2026 at 12:56:31
153 Posted 23/08/2026 at 12:56:31
As another poster said, how about giving the manager some praise when we win? If we had lost, the hanging party would have been out in force.
Too many people want to 'piss in the same pot'. My position on Moyes is that he may not be the best there is but he's certainly not the poorest.
Too many people want to 'piss in the same pot'. My position on Moyes is that he may not be the best there is but he's certainly not the poorest.
John Collins
154 Posted 23/08/2026 at 13:26:01
154 Posted 23/08/2026 at 13:26:01
Who is the poorest in The Premier League, in your opinion, Raymond?
Michael Kenrick
155 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:02:37
155 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:02:37
A couple of MotD moments...
After Pickford pulled off that incredible save onto the post, Rohl is onto the loose ball and taps it back to the grateful gloves of England's Number 1... Er, why was that not a pass-back that the goalkeeper should not have been allowed to pick up? Yet no protests from Palace.
And Barry's header... it hits Richards's back and deflects in... would the original header perhaps have gone wide? Hard to tell from the replays. But in which case, should it have been an own-goal?
After Pickford pulled off that incredible save onto the post, Rohl is onto the loose ball and taps it back to the grateful gloves of England's Number 1... Er, why was that not a pass-back that the goalkeeper should not have been allowed to pick up? Yet no protests from Palace.
And Barry's header... it hits Richards's back and deflects in... would the original header perhaps have gone wide? Hard to tell from the replays. But in which case, should it have been an own-goal?
Raymond Fox
156 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:04:25
156 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:04:25
It's not easy to tell when results are because of the manager, John, or because the players have a good or bad game. After all, it's the players who have to perform on the pitch.
Just my opinion but experience counts for a lot in most situations and he certainly has that, so I wouldn't swap him for some wet-behind-the-ears inexperienced manager who might take us down.
Just my opinion but experience counts for a lot in most situations and he certainly has that, so I wouldn't swap him for some wet-behind-the-ears inexperienced manager who might take us down.
Steve Brown
157 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:31:01
157 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:31:01
Some wet-behind-the-ears young managers doing well this weekend:- Harry Andrew's Brentford dismantled Spurs and Fabian Hurzeler's Brighton hammering Aston Villa.
Dale Self
158 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:31:02
158 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:31:02
Brent 130, if you must know, my anticipation is that they will be good posts for a bad cause.
And don't be playing up Brendan's nice guy poster image. He's killing us... didn't you see where he predicted a 2-year contract for Moyes!?!
The fear, it's palpable.
And don't be playing up Brendan's nice guy poster image. He's killing us... didn't you see where he predicted a 2-year contract for Moyes!?!
The fear, it's palpable.
Oliver Molloy
159 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:33:01
159 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:33:01
Three points and winning our first game of the season for the first time in four years against a very ordinary Palace side, but it could have been very different.
Make no mistake... Moyes is under pressure this season -- from the owners and from Evertonians like me who just don't like the football his teams play and his constant negative 'knife to a gunfight' attitude.
In saying this I do think he will play a more attacking game due to the above, so who knows what lies ahead.
Younger players may have got an opportunity against Palace, but I wouldn't get excited too much... When the more experienced guys are fit, they will take over (in my opinion).
The target has to be Top 8, end of story.
Make no mistake... Moyes is under pressure this season -- from the owners and from Evertonians like me who just don't like the football his teams play and his constant negative 'knife to a gunfight' attitude.
In saying this I do think he will play a more attacking game due to the above, so who knows what lies ahead.
Younger players may have got an opportunity against Palace, but I wouldn't get excited too much... When the more experienced guys are fit, they will take over (in my opinion).
The target has to be Top 8, end of story.
John Collins
160 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:53:01
160 Posted 23/08/2026 at 14:53:01
That's the main issue imo, Raymond.
Don't try to improve in case we get relegated.
Paralysis through analysis.
Don't try to improve in case we get relegated.
Paralysis through analysis.
Christy Ring
161 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:21:49
161 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:21:49
I know Moyes said, Armstrong and Hackney wouldn't have started if Norgaard and Garner were fit, and he did praise both players.
However, I hope the normally conservative manager, after their superb performance yesterday, doesn't change the midfield, and only lets Garner and Norgaard get back in, if and when the two boys aren't playing up to scratch.
I don't think Mykolenko deserves any criticism here, he played well yesterday.
However, I hope the normally conservative manager, after their superb performance yesterday, doesn't change the midfield, and only lets Garner and Norgaard get back in, if and when the two boys aren't playing up to scratch.
I don't think Mykolenko deserves any criticism here, he played well yesterday.
Andrew Clare
162 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:27:13
162 Posted 23/08/2026 at 15:27:13
Great to win. I am delighted as always but bear in mind that Palace hit the post twice, missed at least one sitter and Pickford made another great save.
Palace had more possession and looked much more comfortable on the ball than we did.
So, until players settle into their roles and we sign a right-back and a striker, we must be careful not to get too excited.
Moyes does like to play that cautious game, a dangerous game in fact, a game that encourages the opposition to attack when we should be putting the game to bed.
Palace had more possession and looked much more comfortable on the ball than we did.
So, until players settle into their roles and we sign a right-back and a striker, we must be careful not to get too excited.
Moyes does like to play that cautious game, a dangerous game in fact, a game that encourages the opposition to attack when we should be putting the game to bed.
Steve Brown
163 Posted 23/08/2026 at 16:28:13
163 Posted 23/08/2026 at 16:28:13
Everton haven't been under real threat of relegation since May 2023.
We can't keep using that as an excuse for not doing better than 12th or 13th.
We can't keep using that as an excuse for not doing better than 12th or 13th.
Jonathan Oppenheimer
164 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:05:50
164 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:05:50
Michael @155.
For a referee to call a pass back to the keeper requires clear intent by the player who played the ball. Otherwise the spirit of the game should always err on the side of not penalizing the defending team.
In this case, Rohl made a quick touch in Pickford's direction, but it was not clearly intended for the keeper, so the referee rightly allowed them to play on.
For a referee to call a pass back to the keeper requires clear intent by the player who played the ball. Otherwise the spirit of the game should always err on the side of not penalizing the defending team.
In this case, Rohl made a quick touch in Pickford's direction, but it was not clearly intended for the keeper, so the referee rightly allowed them to play on.
Brendan McLaughlin
165 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:19:58
165 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:19:58
Jonathan #164
I thought Rohl simply miscontrolled the ball and it spilled towards Pickford.
I thought Rohl simply miscontrolled the ball and it spilled towards Pickford.
Brendan McLaughlin
166 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:37:21
166 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:37:21
Dale #158,
I actually think it'll be 3 but said 2 so that when it's announced you can have the satisfaction of telling me I got it wrong.
That's how nice I am.
I actually think it'll be 3 but said 2 so that when it's announced you can have the satisfaction of telling me I got it wrong.
That's how nice I am.
Tony Abrahams
167 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:45:34
167 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:45:34
Hopefully it's going to be a long season rather than a boring mundane one. Hopefully the team competes in every competition they enter and qualifies for Europe via two different avenues.
For this to happen, our manager has got to use his squad; otherwise, it'll be another season that promises a lot more than it eventually delivers.
I don't think Moyes is called “Dour Davie” because he his a bad manager; I think he gets his name because of the way he operates.
He's easy to predict: when everyone is fit, he always prefers experience to youthful exuberance, and he his very happy to pick the same team every single week.
I know I must sound boring constantly pointing this out but, if our manager can get in a couple more players and get rid of this obvious flaw, then who knows what could happen?
But If he doesn't change this obvious flaw, then I think we have seen the story so many times before...
Look at that second goal from Newcastle, just now. Just run hard and try to be positive and who knows what can happen!!!
For this to happen, our manager has got to use his squad; otherwise, it'll be another season that promises a lot more than it eventually delivers.
I don't think Moyes is called “Dour Davie” because he his a bad manager; I think he gets his name because of the way he operates.
He's easy to predict: when everyone is fit, he always prefers experience to youthful exuberance, and he his very happy to pick the same team every single week.
I know I must sound boring constantly pointing this out but, if our manager can get in a couple more players and get rid of this obvious flaw, then who knows what could happen?
But If he doesn't change this obvious flaw, then I think we have seen the story so many times before...
Look at that second goal from Newcastle, just now. Just run hard and try to be positive and who knows what can happen!!!
Dale Self
168 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:46:27
168 Posted 23/08/2026 at 17:46:27
Ooh that is naughty, Brendan, very naughty indeed.
I will get you for this...
[micro font] Moyes Out!
I will get you for this...
[micro font] Moyes Out!
Brendan McLaughlin
169 Posted 23/08/2026 at 21:35:22
169 Posted 23/08/2026 at 21:35:22
Back off Dale #168
Or I'll embroider you a new one!
Or I'll embroider you a new one!
Don Alexander
170 Posted 23/08/2026 at 23:04:43
170 Posted 23/08/2026 at 23:04:43
Good to see pleasant banter on the site, rather than the bile some seemingly can't help but spew on whomever, and all of us.
Chris Davies
171 Posted 24/08/2026 at 01:06:47
171 Posted 24/08/2026 at 01:06:47
Rocco 115,
I agree.
But I think a right-hand side of O'Brien, Armstrong and Garner going backwards is pretty strong. And Branthwaite, Norgaard, Dewsbury-Hall and George on the left would protect as well as threaten too?
Jonathon @116, Yep! I'd been celebrating watching Everton win on the opening day like a mad man!
Maybe remove George for Ndiaye. I'm no manager though. I'm just dreaming of an eleven that packs in as many players that I like as possible!
I agree.
But I think a right-hand side of O'Brien, Armstrong and Garner going backwards is pretty strong. And Branthwaite, Norgaard, Dewsbury-Hall and George on the left would protect as well as threaten too?
Jonathon @116, Yep! I'd been celebrating watching Everton win on the opening day like a mad man!
Maybe remove George for Ndiaye. I'm no manager though. I'm just dreaming of an eleven that packs in as many players that I like as possible!
Chris Davies
172 Posted 24/08/2026 at 01:28:45
172 Posted 24/08/2026 at 01:28:45
Tony @138,
If we look at the subs, they were a downgrade to my eyes.
Garner was miles off it (understandably) for Hackney. Alcaraz for Dewsbury-Hall was a massive step down in keeping the ball and defensive discipline. George became less effective while Johnson looked bright and gave them something to think about going the other way. And Barry for Beto... well, it's been done to death.
I usually nod when I read your despairing posts re: the lack of squad use, but this time, I think I actually agreed with the dour one!
If we look at the subs, they were a downgrade to my eyes.
Garner was miles off it (understandably) for Hackney. Alcaraz for Dewsbury-Hall was a massive step down in keeping the ball and defensive discipline. George became less effective while Johnson looked bright and gave them something to think about going the other way. And Barry for Beto... well, it's been done to death.
I usually nod when I read your despairing posts re: the lack of squad use, but this time, I think I actually agreed with the dour one!
Tony Abrahams
173 Posted 24/08/2026 at 08:45:22
173 Posted 24/08/2026 at 08:45:22
I feel a little bit sorry for Alkaraz, Chris and would like to see him get a run of games in his correct position, because I think he could develop into a real player.
People say he’s shite, my own view is the total opposite. He has never had a real run in the team (which to some equates to he must be shite) and until he does then I will reserve my judgment on him.
KDH, might be a better player than him, but that’s understandable when one is the first name on the team-sheet, and the other is an afterthought who is brought on in injury time.
I often think that Alkaraz, gets treated the way KDH, got treated at Chelsea, because it’s hard to prove yourself if you’re down the pecking order, and not getting a fair crack of the whip, something KDH, has proven since he signed for Everton.
People say he’s shite, my own view is the total opposite. He has never had a real run in the team (which to some equates to he must be shite) and until he does then I will reserve my judgment on him.
KDH, might be a better player than him, but that’s understandable when one is the first name on the team-sheet, and the other is an afterthought who is brought on in injury time.
I often think that Alkaraz, gets treated the way KDH, got treated at Chelsea, because it’s hard to prove yourself if you’re down the pecking order, and not getting a fair crack of the whip, something KDH, has proven since he signed for Everton.
Laurie Hartley
174 Posted 24/08/2026 at 09:08:05
174 Posted 24/08/2026 at 09:08:05
Tony # 173 - I agree with you on Alcaraz - there is definitely a good attacking midfielder in there.
Dave Abrahams
175 Posted 24/08/2026 at 09:32:29
175 Posted 24/08/2026 at 09:32:29
Tony (173) I agree entirely with your point substitutes getting brought on in jury time, it might be they are brought on to get the winning bonus money although I doubt Moyes has that sought of charitable spirit, I think in Alcaraz’s case it looks more like Moyes is taking the piss and driving the lad out of the club, it will surprise hardly anyone if Alcaraz goes before the end of this transfer window.
I hope Alcaraz stays but there is really no incentive for him to stay the way he’s been treated by Moyes, so good luck with your future career Charly I hope you can find a club somewhere else and get better treatment with them.
I hope Alcaraz stays but there is really no incentive for him to stay the way he’s been treated by Moyes, so good luck with your future career Charly I hope you can find a club somewhere else and get better treatment with them.
Josh Horne
176 Posted 24/08/2026 at 10:05:41
176 Posted 24/08/2026 at 10:05:41
Buying both KDH and Alcaraz (£20M?) last Summer, looked questionable at the time and so it proved.
KDH is a far better player, so if he is fit, he plays. Alcaraz was always going to be, at best, a bit part player. How many games were we in a position were a key player like KDH would be a priority to be taken off for Alcaraz?
He is now probably 7th in the midfield pecking order and isn't this the second year of his 2 year (!) contract? He needs to be sold so we recoup some of the money spent on him in the first place.
KDH is a far better player, so if he is fit, he plays. Alcaraz was always going to be, at best, a bit part player. How many games were we in a position were a key player like KDH would be a priority to be taken off for Alcaraz?
He is now probably 7th in the midfield pecking order and isn't this the second year of his 2 year (!) contract? He needs to be sold so we recoup some of the money spent on him in the first place.
Tony Abrahams
177 Posted 24/08/2026 at 14:25:19
177 Posted 24/08/2026 at 14:25:19
It’s going to be interesting to see how that midfield pecking order works out when everyone is fit Josh, and it won’t take long for people to start saying certain players aren’t good enough imo, mate.
The worry is Armstrong and Hackney, they both did a few things wrong on Saturday, but they both did a lot more right imo. They both need to play, same with Dibbling, but when everyone is fit, I’m not sure how much game time they’ll get?
Alkaraz, came on and changed the game against Palace, early last season, his reward was a game out of position at Man City, the following week. He was then taken back out the team, and then he was again taken out the team at Chelsea in December, even though he had just contributed in back to back wins.
Some people seem to get better when they don’t play, some people become worse, but one thing that has always been apparent, is that young players need to play. I’m sure the club, would have taken out a third year option on Alkaraz (stupid if they haven’t) so my own view is that both him and Dibling, need to get away from Everton, for the sake of their careers.
The worry is Armstrong and Hackney, they both did a few things wrong on Saturday, but they both did a lot more right imo. They both need to play, same with Dibbling, but when everyone is fit, I’m not sure how much game time they’ll get?
Alkaraz, came on and changed the game against Palace, early last season, his reward was a game out of position at Man City, the following week. He was then taken back out the team, and then he was again taken out the team at Chelsea in December, even though he had just contributed in back to back wins.
Some people seem to get better when they don’t play, some people become worse, but one thing that has always been apparent, is that young players need to play. I’m sure the club, would have taken out a third year option on Alkaraz (stupid if they haven’t) so my own view is that both him and Dibling, need to get away from Everton, for the sake of their careers.
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1 Posted 22/08/2026 at 13:47:29