Everton mark Euro return with blitz of Wolfsburg

, 18 September, 118comments  |  Jump to most recent
Everton 4 - 1 VfL Wolfsburg
Everton are off to a flying start in the Europa League thanks to a 4-1 win over Wolfsburg under the lights at Goodison Park.

Two goals in each half had the Blues 4-0 up heading into stoppage time where an excellent free kick by Ricardo Rodriquez spoiled what would have been a well-earned clean sheet for Tim Howard.

The emphatic nature of the scoreline masked some impressive work by Everton's rearguard, with John Stones putting in another imperious performance, Howard making a number of saves and the visitors seeing a number of efforts deflected away to safety.

Roberto Martinez named an unchanged team from that which beat West Brom last weekend and, after some early sparring his side went ahead with a quarter of an hour gone when Steven Naismith forced the ball in off Rodriguez.

Everton then doubled their lead in first-half injury time when Seamus Coleman stooped to head home Leighton Baines' cross.

Wolfsburg, had looked difficult to break down in the early going and threatened going forward but their hopes of forcing a way back into the match were effectively ended at the start of the second half.

Aiden McGeady was felled just outside the penalty area but the referee pointed to the spot and Baines fired home the resulting kick to make it 3-0.

Wolfsburg then tried to rally and feed off some increasing sloppiness from the home side but they found the Blues' back line in stubborn mood. Howard made a number of saves and fisted the ball clear on further occasions to keep the Germans at bay before Kevin Mirallas raced onto Samuel Eto'o's lay off to slot past the stranded goalkeeper.

Rodriguez grabbed a consolation goal after substitute Darron Gibson's foul but it was a hugely satisfying night for the Blues who lead Group H following Lille's home draw with Krasnodar.

Full coverage: ToffeeWeb Match Reports



Reader Comments (118)

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Ant Dwyer
1 Posted 19/09/2014 at 00:28:12
Great result , reasonable performance. I’m still slightly worried about some of the chances we seem to give away.

I think our second goal showed us what we expect from our men: Mirallas shoots, the keeper spills and Baines is there to play the ball across the box to our opposite full back Seamus to knock in. Great to watch but I can’t help but think maybe if the keeper fails to parry but instead catches, where would that leave us with our two full backs inside the opposition’s box? Food for thought, maybe!!!

Again, I’m not having a go as I’m a big fan of Roberto’s attacking ways but I do think we may struggle to keep clean sheets if we do not widen up soon. All-in-all a big performance on a massive stage for our boys.

I’d also like to stress how big a contribution Kevin Mirallas seems to be putting in week-in & week-out nowadays... maybe McGeady needs to take note. Massive performance from Stones too.

Nicholas Page
2 Posted 19/09/2014 at 00:39:51
Kevin De Bruyne cost Chelsea £6.7M, sold for £17M. Mirallas cost us £6M.... would you swap? I thought Mirallas was brilliant tonight, got stuck in all over the pitch. I also thought McGeady put a shift in. This is exactly what Mourinho has done with Willian – he was a different player this season at GP than last year. No room for egos.
Mike Keating
3 Posted 19/09/2014 at 00:31:28
Great start to our return to Europe although we were flattered by the scoreline secured by Howard back to his best. What a pity the mingebags at Goodison refuse to allow season ticket holders use of their discount vouchers for these games – the ground could have been bursting and improved on a fantastic atmosphere at the Grand Old Lady which, BTW, could still be a preferred option.

If we shifted the stadium and pitch towards the park (building over the car park at the Park End) and had a walk up from Stanley Park which straddled the road (a bit like Wembley) it could be stunning.

ps: Eto’o has magic in his boots – I really hope Lukaku learns a lot from this guy as he has so much to give

Charlie ONeill
4 Posted 19/09/2014 at 00:58:29
This was a great showing. What really impressed me was Eto’o and his vision. I was skeptical of the signing at first, but his performance tonight made me do a 180.
Andy Crooks
5 Posted 19/09/2014 at 00:57:54
Nicholas, agree with you on McGeady, I thought he had a fine game. For Mirallas, well he looks at times unplayable, a really top class pacey player.
Brian Wilkinson
6 Posted 19/09/2014 at 01:01:28
Great result, no suprise the doom merchants have kept away, hence the lack of comments on here.

Howard made some excellent saves but overall cannot complain too much after a 4-1 victory.

Same again Sunday will do for me.

Danny Kewley
7 Posted 19/09/2014 at 01:32:06
Well done, the Toffeeeeeeeees!!!!!!!
Mark Andersson
8 Posted 19/09/2014 at 01:29:19
What brilliant news to wake up to, here down under. Great report Lyndon as always.

Does any one have a link to the goals. Would appreciate it.

Dennis Ng
9 Posted 19/09/2014 at 01:47:55
Stunning result. Didn’t think Wolfsburg would be such a pushover. CP next!
Michael Coville
10 Posted 19/09/2014 at 01:58:46
Wolfsburg were no pushover, Dennis, they played pretty well I thought but we were both ruthless with our attacks and resolute in defense.

Stones for me is making a big difference to our defense. He obviously has a lot to learn and on occasions will make mistakes but he is cool-headed, has good positional sense, and when he gets the ball he doesn’t just hoof it but either runs with it or passes it to a colleague.

Against a pretty good side, we played very well as a team and, yes, Howard did save us a few times, but that is what he is supposed to do after all.

Jack Plant
11 Posted 19/09/2014 at 02:10:57
Mirallas was Man of the Match for me tonight. Great going forward, good effort tracking back.
Steve Jenkins
12 Posted 19/09/2014 at 02:40:02
I thought we were excellent tonight, played some great stuff all over the park. Stones was coolness personified at the back.

Eto’o – showed his class again tonight and showed again why he’s going to be a top signing for us.

Harold Matthews
13 Posted 19/09/2014 at 02:04:49
Good all round performance despite Lukaku giving the impression of someone trying to control a balloon. Hopefully his technique will improve.

Howard and the lads at the back were pretty solid but I couldn’t understand why we suddenly went ragged after the third goal. It was though they had stepped up a gear. Very strange business.

Our attack is lethal when we are fresh, bright and brisk. Once we slow down just a touch the opposition take over the midfield and we drop too deep. Maybe we’re not pacing ourselves properly. I don’t really know. We’re certainly a force to be reckoned with right now but I expect a lot of improvement around January/February when the new faces are bedded in.

Great win tonight. Beating a German side 4-1 is no mean feat and the whole of Europe will have been impressed.

Tom Laskaris
14 Posted 19/09/2014 at 03:29:28
Mark, all goals on the Uefa official webpage.
Mark Andersson
15 Posted 19/09/2014 at 03:36:02
Thanks for the link, Tom.

Why did The Daily Mail give Kevin Marallis such a poor star rating? I hate that biased everything red shite.

Ajay Gopal
16 Posted 19/09/2014 at 04:37:00
Just as – in my opinion – the 3-6 scoreline was flattering to Chelsea the other day, today’s 4-1 scoreline is hugely flattering to us. A fairer result would have been 3-2 (to us obviously). But football is a funny game and these things even out (hopefully) over a season.

Some good attacking football in the 1st half and a dogged defensive display in the 2nd. My MotM (watching on TV here) was Tim Howard followed closely by Stones, Mirallas and McCarthy.

In fact, I though everyone without played well for us – Baines, Naismith, Coleman, McGeady – Barry was brilliant at times. Only Lukaku was slightly below par except for the well taken free kick in the 1st half. Eto’o was brilliant in his brief appearance and seems to be enjoying playing for us.

Brian Cleveland
17 Posted 19/09/2014 at 05:15:52
Now where are all those who say Howard is past it? He saved us loads of times, some absolutely cracking saves as well as some easy ones because he was well positioned.

4-1 flattered us, they had loads of shots and Howard was equal to it all (last gasp free-kick aside which was an absolute peach). Winning 4-1 and the goalkeeper a candidate for MotM? Says it all really.

A slightly strange game for me... after going 3 up, Wolfsburg started to play and put us under pressure and I felt a few squirmy moments... We are giving away cheap possession far too often, which of course is part of trying to play it around at the back...

But sometimes it just seemed that we were looking for a difficult backward pass when there was an easy forward pass on, it was almost excessive and had me shouting and pointing at the free man... and do you know what... the buggers never listened me!

But finally great day, just what the doctor ordered and what I’ve been waiting for since it became mathematically confirmed we would be in Europe towards the end of last season!

:-)

Darryl Ritchie
18 Posted 19/09/2014 at 05:20:49
We made good on our chances, they didn’t.

Our defence played outstandingly, theirs didn’t. 4-1 scoreline fully deserved.

Dual MotM... Howard and Mirallas, with McCarthy and Baines not far behind.

Stones is an adequate right back, but he’s at home in a CB. He oozes confidence there... no panic! Naisy was full of running, but I think he wanted it too much, if that’s possible. Lucky not to get sent off. McGeady, at times, scares the hell out left backs... other times, not so much.

I really like the size and makeup of our squad. A lot of quality that we haven’t had for a while. If we stay healthy, we’ll stir things up.

Bring on Palace!

Paul Olsen
19 Posted 19/09/2014 at 06:11:41
Those of you praising Stones, I agree. But, not really last night. I love him, but did you guys miss the 2-3 awful clearances he made yesterday? Had this been the Chelsea game, Wolfsburg would have scored at least two goals off those. He’s a prospect, but yesterday he was the least reassured defender in our team.

Howard mom by a mile, but plenty of players had a good game last night. The result was amazing, against a strong side that clearly had many qualities. Flattering yeah, but great performance. McCarthy won heaps, running everywhere. Naismith at his battling best, Baines/Coleman both efficient when attacking, Mirallas looking dangerous.

Jon Withey
20 Posted 19/09/2014 at 06:28:54
I thought McCarthy was phenomenal defensively and Howard saved us from conceding a few.

Eto’o looks like a great signing – can do a to of damage in 20 minutes.

Lukaku tries to do too much when he receives the ball and usually messes it up. However, he was there for link up play and made a nuisance of himself.

Amazing to see Coleman and Baines descending on each of the opposition’s goalposts – talk about pincer movements!

Max Wilson
21 Posted 19/09/2014 at 06:42:47
Yes, this was our referendum!

Was Howard past it?
Was our defence over the hill?
Were some of our new players over rated?
Was Eto’o a great buy?

The answers were there to see. Confidence restored all round.

Man of the Match? Equal between McCarthy and Howard in my view.

Mark Andersson
22 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:03:12
It is so good to see that most fans have things in perspective after that game. I hope that continues into the next game.

What was the official attendance?

Dave Pritchard
23 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:17:49
It is always interesting to get different perspectives on performances. At the match I thought Barry was our best player. Everything started with him and he seemed to have so much time on the ball.

Most impressive was the energy and team spirit of all the players. Even some of our ’greedy’ players were looking to pass to people in better positions instead of going for glory themselves. Yes, a 3-goal margin flattered us a bit but there will be games when we don’t get what the performance deserves so just enjoy it.

Peter Bell
24 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:29:41
If we can seal our qualification by EL match 4 which is beginning of November, we then have almost 4 months until the last 32 knockout phase in mid-February. We can play some of the young fringe players in match 5 and 6 without any worry.

If Spurs are favourites, then we can win this competition although one of the CL dropouts just may throw a spanner into the works...

Ian Bennett
25 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:32:14
Paul 19 - I thought Stones looked impressive. He’s good in the air, reads the play, brings the ball out quickly and can play a quicker pass. We play better with him in the side.

McCarthy had a reassuring game in the middle, but I can’t help but think he has at least another gear to go up. I don’t think we’ll see that when he plays with Barry or Gibson, but if he had a quicker partner, then I think the insurance shackles might come off.

Everyone else pretty well. Lukaku’s first touch and link play is still work in progress, and he has to look at that cultured number 5. He had me drooling.

Derek Knox
26 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:24:48
Watching from Scotland, I was very impressed with the team as a whole but if I was to be critical, I think I would have brought on Atsu for McGeady with about the ’30-20 minutes remaining’ mark as I felt he went off the boil a bit.

Personally, had Tim not pulled off another heroic goalkeeping performance, I was so enthused with the performance of John Stones, that he could have been my contender for MoM, but equally McCarthy (second half) was Johnny on the Spot.

Overall, I was so pleased at the result and hope it sets us up for the gruelling few games coming up, and that equally it doesn’t make us over-confident, and take our foot off the gas. We have to retain that ruthless streak and keep going for victory at even three goals up, or whatever it may be, there was evidence last night, that any ’easing off’ resulted in the opposition spotting an opportunity to retalliate, and but for Tim’s heroics, as Ajay alluded to, the score could have been very different.

The new mission is, win the next three games, especially the one a week on Saturday, I can’t just remember who that is at this moment in time. :-)

Pat Waine
27 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:45:10
A great win but our back line looks very open. Wolfsburg could have had 3 given the amount of shots they had. We will not get away with that in other games. We shouldn’t let our goals blind us of the weaknesses at the back.
Ian Jones
28 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:48:00
Ant @1 re full backs in attack when we scored. If the goalie had saved and started an attack I assume Barry or McCarthy would have dropped back. They usually do... if not, Tim Howard would have saved us.

Paul @19. I also spotted the ’clearances’ Stones made if you are talking about the 2-3 times he sort of stretched his leg out and the ball went a few feet in front of him.

Good victory. Eto’o will surely help Lukaku play. We have to remember the difference in experience and that they are different types of player.

Eto’o has the vision to see a move happening As long as Everton players also see it as well it will be a good season. 4th goal from Mirallas an example.

I also liked Gibson’s brief appearance, driving forward and having a decent shot. But can you imagine what Chelsea would have been like with Eto’o and Costa in the same team.

Peter Z Jones
29 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:37:27
We effing killed it today! Excellent performance all around. We really grew into the game after Wolfsburg initially pressed high and stopped us from playing a bit. Very slick passing moves as per our usual (very cool for this to be a usual thing btw).

McCarthy was much better today. I think Lukaku’s involvement so far this season is being underrated. He’s working really hard and drawing defenders, allowing Naismith in particular to thrive through the middle. And I don’t know what people are seeing with his technique. I’ve seen far less loose touches per game than last season.

Eto’o was fantastic from the moment he came on. Mirallas was very classy and consistent. Stones had a few shaky moments, but he’s just so calm that I can’t see how he isn’t first choice the rest of the year. He’s our best center back. Simple as that.

I’m really interested to see how much we rotate for Palace, as we should be looking to exact some serious revenge for last season! Anyways, a great game and return to Europe. Very proud after that display.

Kevin O'Regan
30 Posted 19/09/2014 at 07:34:33
Before I get whacked for not being overwhelmed – I am delighted with the result.

But, I’m not sure how we can allow an average Bundesliga team overrun us in midfield to have 25 shots on goal? Was it Roberto’s tactic to give the defence a stern test ? If so it worked. Thanks to an excellent Howard.

But, in all honesty, that will not work all the time... not with the oldest CB partnership in the PL – not in a season with 2 games per week or more, and still a small squad... We need to close down in midfield, not 10/15 yards behind that.

It worked out this time and some cool finishing, but Wolfsburg had too many chances – even the German TV was asking how that’s possible that they get double the amount of shots in as they do in the Bundesliga.... I’m happy, but concerned.

James Morgan
31 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:04:02
Great result but we got sloppy after our third goal and played with fire. Howard was excellent as was Stones. McGeady flatters to deceive for me, but Eto’o showed pure class in the few touches he had. Let’s hope they don’t think they are tired on Sunday.
Colin Glassar
32 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:05:59
An average Bundesliga team? Wow, ignorance is bliss I suppose. The level of ignorance shown on here, by some, is incredible at times.
Stuart Gray
33 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:12:25
@Kevin #30 - yes they had 25 shots, but very few were quality and most were after they were 3-0 down. In the main, but for a couple of shaky moments, I thought we contained them well and they are a good side.
Mike Chambers
34 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:08:57
Good result last night, team played well together Mirallas and Howard the main stars. Lukaku looked a bit short... I hope we haven’t missed why Chelsea got rid of him. Glad to see Gibson back. Question mark still over McGeady, I just can’t rate him.
Charles Brewer
35 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:17:02
So the voting from ToffeeWebbers on Man of the Match was:

Howard, Stones, Barry, McCarthy, Mirallas, McGeady
Eto’o was brilliant, Naismith was outstanding, but Baines and Coleman only played really well and scored. Lukaku didn’t do anything wrong...

Gentlemen, I think we have a team.

Andy Meighan
36 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:12:03
For those who are trying to defend Lukaku’s performance I’d like to say this: we blew our entire transfer budget on him, and he can’t kill a ball, he’s got no awareness of what’s going on around him. When we break with pace, if he receives the ball, the move breaks down because all too often he gets the ball stuck between his feet.

Eto’o in his cameo actually did more than Lukaku all game. if he was a kid who’d come through the ranks, I’d say "Yeah, well, he’s still learning." But he’s not – he’s an established Premier League player and international.

Let’s not forget, we almost doubled our transfer record to get him and he actually looks like he’s gone backwards. He might score a few goals but you’ll never convince me he’s a good footballer.

As someone sitting by me last night said, "You don’t get much for your £28 million these days, do you?" – so it’s not just me!

As for the game itself, it was a strange one; they had a lot of the ball and created some decent chances but didn’t take them, whereas we didn’t really create many but took ours when they came.

But it’s no coincidence that, since Stones got back in the centre of defence, he has looked more assured. One quality player... Now there’s one kid I’d have happily paid £100M for, hey, Roberto?

Jim Bennings
37 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:16:52
What a very good game of football that was!

I thoroughly enjoyed that and I wonder did all the people who were so negative about Europe before that actually find they enjoyed it?

4-1 flattered us, Wolfsburg could easily have scored 4 themselves and to be fair at the very least deserved their late goal.

Man of the Match for me was Mirallas, the penny seems to have finally dropped with Kev about the work-rate now and he has started reaping rewards more often.

We defended quite well.

I am amazed people actually say they were sceptical about Samuel Eto’o... How can people even argue with that fella’s record and what he’s done in his career? He is World Class, that’s a line too often used but in Eto’o’s case it is purely valid.

I am slightly worried about Lukaku. I don’t know if it’s still a case that he’s troubled by injury and lack of fitness so yes let’s be patient but at the minute he just lacks the basics and lacks any kind of real mobility and motivation. He needs our time and support but sooner or later we need to start seeing better performance levels from him.

I am also slightly concerned by McGeady but I know it’s basically what you see is what you get with him now. He has trickery but he continues to frustrate; that said, he does offer a variety on the wings at times, similar to Lukaku in that we need to start seeing things more consistently.

All-in-all, a great night though.

Joseph Clarke
39 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:41:50
Great result, unconvincing midfield and defensive performance, apart from Howard.

Eto’o, sadly no longer world class, at age 102, simply Class, stands out above the rest.

Kevin Tully
40 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:49:11
Love the fact our attacking philosophy is now making people stand up and take notice of the Blues. We might take a few pastings when it doesn’t go right, but you know you will be entertained watching us these days.

Take Sunday’s game, usually be thinking ’can’t really be arsed going’ but now, you know we are going to be treated to goals, and every game seems to be exciting.

Link

Kevin O'Regan
41 Posted 19/09/2014 at 08:46:58
Colin (#32) – I watch quite a bit of Bundesliga over here and although Werder Bremen had a decent run last year, there are really only 2-3 teams of top quality in the league and they are in the Champions League now. Not saying the league is bad, Wolfsburg have been messed around by managers for past few years, but they are not great. EFC (when playing well) are a good step ahead and that showed last night, despite all our frailties and lack of midfield presence.

This season Werder Bremen have not won yet and they are a long way off their top form from last year. Why would you call this arrogance or ignorance? This is exactly what they are saying themselves this morning. Sure they won the BL a while back, backed by Volkswagen – but Leeds and Blackburn won the PL too... it’s history.

Daniel Taylor
42 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:02:43
Kevin (#41) ...remind me — when did Leeds win the Premier League?
Jake Lucas
43 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:03:32
When looking back at the game, we have to remember this is a very good Wolfsburg team, who finished 1 point away from a champions league spot last season. In the first half, I agree they did look as comfortable as us on the ball in the first 2 thirds, but we had the cutting edge in the final third and was deservedly up at half time.

Yes, we did get lucky with the pen decision, but how many times have decisions like that gone against us? And at 3-0 I can completely understand the team sitting back and inviting pressure, with only 3 days till our next game and with what looks like a bunch of plays that are hungry to play every game.

Stones or Howard for MotM for me, it almost looks as if Howard has gone up a level I never thought he had, and Stones is looking more confident every game, I think he should be our first choice CB over both Jags and Distin.

Great win but can easily be spoiled by dropping points on Sunday, so enjoy it lads but let’s stay focused on what will hopefully be a long and successful season.

Peter Bell
44 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:19:07
Leeds won the last ever 1st Division, not the Premier League.
Kevin O'Regan
45 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:18:02
Daniel, agree, now that was indeed poorly ’remembered’ on my part... but my point was teams who buy their way to the top or thereabouts, without a solid foundation are going to be fireflys at best or in some cases bankrupt or relegated..

Felix Magath did well with Wolfsburg 1st time round, left for Schalke messed them up even more, returned to Wolfsburg sold over half the team and bought 8 new players in the Jan. window... didn’t work out.

Everton on the other hand exist for well over 15 years, have a tradition of quality and of course our winning Motto... Add to that a decent quality squad, who work hard, a decent manager and you have a very good chance to do well in Europe.

But again, we need to beef up in midfield and not allow teams to run at us like that. Yes McCarthy did some great work, but it was putting out fires at the last minute, heroic stuff – but that does not mean that we controlled the game. All in all a good night of learning and very good result.

Simon Smith
46 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:37:28
Not sure if anyone else noticed or has posted about it, but what is it with ITV using our old crest pictured on the TV screen in the studio before kick off? FFS ITV get it right or don’t bother!
Andrew Ellams
47 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:39:01
Leeds didn’t buy that title. The insane spending came after that when the Premier League and Champions League pennies started rolling in.
Chris Matheson
48 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:47:05
Daniel and Peter (and Kevin...)

Sky did not invent football, and football did not begin in 1992. There was no football Year Zero and the game has a much longer, more illustrious and, frankly, better, history pre- Premier League.

That Kevin was one year out is hardly relevant, his point stands.

ps: Great performance and as Jim has said, great team display too. I can be as negative as the next blue but last night’s match was one to celebrate.

Dermot O'Brien
49 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:45:45
Lionel Messi = Argentinian Naismith. In your dreams Lionel.
James Stewart
50 Posted 19/09/2014 at 09:55:25
Great win but it was a flattering scoreline and an undeserved pen that was outside the box. Howard was MotM for me although Baines runs him close.

Lukaku was more Heskey than Drogba and you could see an immediate difference when Eto’o came on and held the ball up better with his first touch than Lukaku did all night. Lukaku has a lot of learning to do.

Tim Evans
51 Posted 19/09/2014 at 10:52:09
Morning all.

Been browsing ToffeeWeb for ages, never felt the need to post before. Until last night! I’m currently ’in-between jobs’, and have just finished enjoying that glorious first smoke of the day.

All I can is that last night reminded me of Bayern, April ’85. Are McCarthy and Barry the new Reid and Bracewell? As for our forward play, well, I could go on....

I trust blues everywhere are enjoying the day!

Conn Prosser
52 Posted 19/09/2014 at 11:33:03
The back four looked solid – Howard felt it, they felt Howard’s solidity and it just ticked.

Love watching Mirallas when he’s on fire. Even though he’s a good player, he must have felt the goose bumps after his goal when Eto’o, the provider came bounding up to him, grinning ear-to-ear for the congrats. I did.

A huge performance in every position against very good opposition. I expect there will be some rested players on Sunday. Just hope the work ethic spreads from team to squad. Cracking result.

Tony J Williams
53 Posted 19/09/2014 at 12:08:38
One thing that winds me up no end is the old oft trotted out moan, "If they were a better side, we would have been taken to the cleaners!!"

They weren’t and we won 4-1, enjoy.

You adapt to different teams so this plan clearly worked.

Paul Mackie
54 Posted 19/09/2014 at 12:18:42
The first goal was a great example of how we should play more often, in my opinion. Patient passing at the back of the pitch to get some space and then BAM, we’ve created a chance 3 or 4 passes later. No dithering about outside their 18-yard box, just straight in there. Yeah, Naismith’s shot took a bit of a deflection but the move itself was still fantastic.
Mark Beech
55 Posted 19/09/2014 at 12:20:34
Great result for the Blues last night. I am quite new to the site – always view but never post but thought I’d join in the fun so hi guys!

I just had a look at the Wolfsburg website and it is full of praise for Everton and no complaining about the penalty call or poor refereeing. Maybe us English should take a leaf out of their book – they congratulate Everton an concede they were beaten fair and square.

Well that’s my first post – hopefully first of many!

Michael Penley
56 Posted 19/09/2014 at 12:29:29
Tony - You can add "they had 50 shots on target to our 6". So if their manager tells the team to shoot from halfway line whenever they get the ball, that proves they’re a better team. One thing stats can’t show is the quality of a chance. Having a shot on target is one thing, scoring is another.
Susong Hermawan
57 Posted 19/09/2014 at 12:33:24
Congrat Blues...
Pete Edwards
58 Posted 19/09/2014 at 12:51:59
Why are people obsessed with mentionig Howard made X amount of saves — otherwise it would have been a different outcome?

Urrmmmmm... I thought that was his job or role in the team. Or am I missing something here?

Colin McBride
59 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:02:19
Great result last night.

I can’t say I agree with all the Stones comments myself; I thought he did well enough defensively, cool on the ball but his passing scares the hell out of me. He passes to the opposition too much for me and when he comes out with the ball he rarely passes forward. Still he’s only young and will only get better.

Mick MacManus
60 Posted 19/09/2014 at 12:56:53
The second goal was sheer pleasure to watch. Where else would you see two full backs combining that far up the pitch? Watching the reply, Baines’ run into the box to get on the rebound from Mirallas’s shot in the build up was forward adventure at its best!

Eto’o also showed his quality with his through balls.... he’s still got it!

Steve Barr
61 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:05:41
An observation regarding Tim Howard.

No matter what mistakes the defence make he never seems to berate them the way many other goalkeepers do.

He just encourages them and prepares for the next attack.

I think he is excellent and a personification of the excellent team spirit we have.

COYBs

Mick MacManus
62 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:04:59
Interesting point made on the Setanta Ireland commentary last night (by Brian Little I think) that, within Europe, it is only in England that the Europa League is looked down upon as not being a serious competition. I wonder does it ring true?
Kevin Tully
63 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:09:43
I think we are slowly losing our ’underdog’ mentality. Having the likes of Eto’o around will certainly give some of the younger lads plenty of belief. Stones is fearless by the way - big things ahead for him no doubt. How many young players can play with that much conviction in such a vital position?

A couple more wins before the derby is just the tonic. Go into that game with a huge confidence lift, and we can at last do ourselves justice at that rat-hole.

Erik Dols
64 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:11:43
@Mick MacManus:

Nope, Italian clubs most of the time just send their second or third team.

In Holland, the coverage of the competition is just a fraction the attention the CL gets. PSV, who have a 35k-capacity stadium that sells out every singe home match in the league, who have a waiting list for season tickets and who are looking into expanding to 50k or building a brand new stadium with that capacity (sounds familiar??) only drew 17,000 spectators for their match yesterday evening, despite single match tickets being as cheap as €15 for most stands (about half the price of the cheapest league ticket).

It depends a bit from the specific country and club, but I have the impression that it’s pretty standard that nobody gives a shit about the Europa League in the first stages.

Mick MacManus
65 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:26:10
Ha, thanks for info Erik, I kind of suspected that. Nevertheless, I think we should take it seriously and field our best team for each game at this early stage and not try to over rotate thinking ahead to PL games. Lesser teams like Fulham and Middlesborough have gone very far in this competition in the past and there is no reason why we can’t do the same.
Tony Marsh
66 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:22:34
The problem with the Europa League and the apathy amongst fans is the lack of financial reward on offer compared to the Champions League, which by the way is full of teams who are not Champions. In effect, the Europa League is the Jonstone’s Paint trophy of Europe.

To be asked to play a billion more games a season, all on Thursday nights, then turn out the following Sunday, is a ball breaker and gruelling for so little back in return. The reason English clubs and fans don’t take the Europa seriously is all to do with the lack of Wonga on offer of and the ridiculous situation of allowing Champions League flops to drop in at the knockout stage. What a joke.

I myself see the Europa League as a massive distraction to our Premier League campaign. I think there is a chance of a top-four push again this season with Liverpool slipping out due to the departure of Ratboy. The Europa League will test and drain our small squad and we will end up up dropping down the Premier League and not winning the Europa League either.

The Premier League is our bread and butter — its what pays the bills. We should send out the crocks and the kids in Europa League matches. Save our best for the domestic challenge. 17 extra games to reach the final in Poland... No, thank you.

Tony J Williams
67 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:38:31
The lad who sits by me at the match said the tickets for the FC Krankies match were only £2.
Kevin O'Regan
68 Posted 19/09/2014 at 13:47:03
Mick, I don’t think that is true – The Europa League is rated 2nd class by most managers and clubs... Then again, it depends on who you ask – the guy fighting against relegation who has to play in the EL or a team who have planned for the CL and get the Europa League instead.... But it’s generally not seen as a great competition – thanks to TV, Sponsorship + CL Marketing...

For us this year I think it’s a good learning curve – even though it will stretch us.

Erik Dols
69 Posted 19/09/2014 at 14:24:00
Mick (#66), no prob. I agree with you, especially as the winner gets a ticket to the Champions League, Everton should be going for it. For my part, we rotate the squad in the League Cup.

Does anybody know if that ticket is for the play-off or if it’s a ticket directly to the group stages of the CL?

Brian Cleveland
70 Posted 19/09/2014 at 14:41:03
Erik,

It gets you into the play offs, but I’m not sure at what round.

Paul Seagraves
71 Posted 19/09/2014 at 15:18:28
My first post on Toffee Web. I have read with interest the varied comments about the match. I have to say that all the comments about 4-1 being a flattering score line do surprise me, all the peole who post that are the same ones who say "football is a funny game", "It will even itself out over the season".

It doesn’t make sense we scored 4 ergo we were the better team. It is no good just looking at statistics; yes, they had more shots than we did but many of them ended up in Row Z.

I was impressed with the efficient way we went about our task and El Bob got it right with his approach. I do not think we can say that we were over run in the first 15 minutes; I actually think it was a case of defending deep, let them come on to us, see what they have got, and then go for it. We were not as naive as we have been in the past, there was no gung-ho approach – just a solid efficient performance.

Finally, I agree, Eto’o is superb but let’s not get carried away: he has only made two cameo appearances. I have to say though (finally finally) it makes you proud when you see Everton 3 Wolfsburg 0 and Eto’o as our sub...

Iain Davies
72 Posted 19/09/2014 at 15:34:51
Anyone see the trouble in the away end? I believe the ringleader had a silly haircut and a little moustache...

Errr I’ll get my coat

Dominic Tonge
73 Posted 19/09/2014 at 16:23:52
I have to say, I thought Gareth Barry was MotM last night. He seemed to be the launchpad for a lot of our better passing moves, he seemed at ease with controlled possession and also with the quicker paced one touch stuff when things got a bit tight in midfield. There were a couple of occasions when his experience allowed him to read the Wolfsburg play, and he just stepped in and cut out a ball, having telegraphed the pass.

I am a big fan of Eto’o, and am gutted no one has managed to come up with a "Cornetto" chant...... I mean he played at Barca, and in Itaaaaallllllyyy!!!! Also if you think about it: His skills, his goals... supreme!

Samuel Eto’o, he makes me cream!

Anyway.... regarding the Europa League, I agree that it gets sneered at, but I think that teams with the profile of Wolfsburg and Lille make it worthwhile. There is a huge difference between having to go to Lille (or a team with such pedigree) and get a result, or lining up against quality players – for instance, Olic and Luis Gustavo are good experiences for our players, as well as actually being a good spectacle.

If we go on and win it, and qualify for the Champions league , not a lot of sneering will be done -well, other than by the obligatory sour reds. Oh and probably the Mirror - they just hate us in totalis.

Colin Malone
76 Posted 19/09/2014 at 18:41:32
A bit like the Chelsea game, If Wolfsburg had their shooting boots on, it would have been a different result.

In my opinion, Coleman and McGeady don’t go together, the latter not good enough.

John Malone
77 Posted 19/09/2014 at 19:24:59
Remember Roberto saying "The performance outweighed the scoreline", well for me last night that was the worrying thing. Granted we scored four goals and got the win but the way we gave up possession and allowed them to attack at will was a big concern for me.

I’ll put it out there now I’m not yet convinced by Martinez, his Plan A only tactics, his ignorance to the opposition’s weapons and his super nice guy approach doesn’t give the impression he has what it takes to be a winner. How often does the nice guy finish on top?

For me, the manager’s personality is reflected in his team and in my opinion we lack fire, grit and tempo. Everything we do is slow, calm and controlled just how Roberto comes across.

I’m not saying I haven’t been impressed by everything else he has brought to the club but there is definitely something lacking with regards to when we haven’t got the ball.

Dennis Ng
78 Posted 19/09/2014 at 23:13:38
Michael (10), certainly no pushover. Just saw highlights of Howard’s saves, which is ridiculous. Based on that 4-1 is certainly a flattering score, but it’s good we showed the ruthless streak against a good opponent. Definitely hope improving defensive showings as we get more games.
Mark Andersson
79 Posted 20/09/2014 at 00:33:01
Tony Marsh, you got me thinking conspiracy theory. Is the Europa designed to keep the nearly men away from the top 4 the following season? Most teams seem to drop points and places after there Europa campaign.

As for John Malone, I think you have a valid point but I still think Everton are in better hands now. Who knows maybe it’s time for the man with the white hat to finally kill off the bad guys. Then again the whole game is corrupted. The media love-in with any team in the Devil’s colour, red.

I, like most, would be happy if we had the same result and performance of last night against the Redshite in a few weeks.

Mike Childs
80 Posted 20/09/2014 at 02:02:27
Good results great to wake up to. I think that Roberto’s style of play should really shine in the competition. In the EPL the less talent squads seem to either park the bus or certainly commit to defense first a lot of questionable tackling resulting in free kicks and stop/start affair. In Europa we’re going to see more free flowing football I believe which should suit us just fine.

I for one hope this all out effort to win continues even if we suffer a few places in the EPL. I’d gladly settle for an 8 the to 10 the place finish in the league to win this competition.

After all, when slugs like Man Utd can spend a quarter of a billion dollars in one window to fight for a CL spot, it kinda makes the league a rigged outcome.

Steve Sweeney
81 Posted 20/09/2014 at 03:19:24
Here’s a link for accommodation in Lille.
It’s booking up fast.
Raymond Fox
83 Posted 20/09/2014 at 07:05:18
John 78, all the players ran themselves into the ground in the Wolfsburg game, both in attack and defence.

If you have an attack oriented strategy, it’s common sense that you will give the opposition more chances then playing a defensive game. When we went in front Wolfsburg have to go on the attack don’t they, that’s partly the reason that we scored 4!

Our results over the 2 seasons don’t reflect your concerns, and saying that Roberto wants to play a different way to the Moyes era, players have adapted remarkably well, they are no doubt still learning.

As far as the number of shots from Wolfsburg, Howard did make 3 and 4 excellent saves, that’s why he’s a Premier League goalkeeper, most of them though were easy saves or off target.

Also, you say that Martinez being Mr Nice Guy will not be successful; he’s not afraid to keep Besic and Atsu waiting on the bench, also a couple of his ex-players said when asked about Martinez in the dressing room, have described him as nothing like his public face; he doesn’t give hairdryers but they’re left in no doubt what he thinks when their at fault.

Another point, John, is Roberto is limited by our spending budget when you compare us with the other top 7 clubs. In the end, he’s only as good as his players.

Drew Shortis
86 Posted 20/09/2014 at 09:17:45
John Malone 78

I have to disagree with you that we "lack fire, grit and tempo". We felt our way into the game over the first 15 minutes, not taking any risks and keeping possession. After that we picked up the tempo considerably and only slowed again once we were three-nil up, by which time I think a lot of the guys had expended considerable energy.

After Baines’s penalty we went over to a counter-attacking game and Wolfsburg had a few good opportunities, but most of their shooting was from long range. Howard made some fine saves and Jags and McCarthy made some good blocks. As Wolfsburg pushed men forward there was always the potential to nick on on the break which we did with Mirallas. I would probably have brought on Atsu for McGeady at that point.

It must be remembered that Wolfsburg are a top outfit in the Bundesliga full of international talent. The fact we made them appear a bit of a pushover for the first three goals kind of makes it look like we dropped our standards when they came back into the game. In reality, they are top professionals and would have been determined to put some respectability into the scoreline.

We are going to have to learn in Europe but this first result has put us in a very strong position to qualify and perhaps blood a few younger players if we qualify with a few games to spare. I’m enjoying the success for now, not looking for portents of doom!

Wayne Smyth
87 Posted 20/09/2014 at 08:56:51
John(78) - you say Martinez doesn’t have what it takes to be a winner, but you have a very short memory.

Unlike our dour but fiery former manager, Martinez did indeed win something in 2013. I’ll leave you to research what that might’ve been, but it was some kind of silvery cup-shaped thing.

I don’t think there is any evidence that he is ignorant of the opposition’s weapons, either. It’s certainly clear that he puts an emphasis on what we can do to hurt the opposition, and I prefer that approach.

Do you think SAF sent out his Utd team primarily to stop the opposition, or blow them away? From Rio Ferdinands biography, we have our answer.

When Moyes went there and started to emphasise the oppositions threats to a greater extent, the Utd players started to worry about the opposition and doubt themselves and finished in Moyes favourite 7th place as a result.

Under Martinez, we adjust to the oppositions weaknesses, clearly shown by his successful switching of Lukaku to the right flank against Arsenal last season to get at their left back, resulting in us playing them off the park. No plan B my arse.

I’ll grant you the performance against Wolfsburg was not perfect and we did indeed get a few bits of luck, but to say our play is slow makes me wonder quite how we managed to score 4 against such quality opposition.

I must’ve misread the speed of our break for the 4th goal and I’ve no idea how slow their right back must’ve been to let the slow and predictable leighton baines right into their penalty area, to cross for the equally slow Coleman, who was probably under instruction from Martinez to pass it sideways slowly near our penalty area, and probably got scalded afterwards for doing something that was a bit too quick.

So, I think you’re well within your rights to doubt Martinez, but judging by the strength of your argument, I think you’d find reason to doubt anyone.

I could sit here and list 5 or 10 things I’m not happy with about Martinez and the way we sometimes play, but we need to remember we’re not Real Madrid, we don’t have their players, cash or ability to attract proven world-class managers.

So, given that I can’t see any alternative manager who would be prepared to manage us and who would do better with our resources, I’ll keep my trap shut.

John Malone
88 Posted 20/09/2014 at 10:27:17
Maybe it’s me being so used to watching a David Moyes defensively tight team week-in & week-out for so long, but I can’t help but notice how ’open’ we look when we haven’t got the ball. Even last year when our defensive record was good every game, there was too many ’nail-biting, hold your breath’ moments. The best teams attack hard fast and in numbers plus defend that way. I just don’t think the balance is there yet; hopefully it’s just a matter of time and a couple of changes in personnel and we’ll be a top, top team.

On another note, I really do hope Lukaku learns off Eto’o and sharpens up – some of his link-up play and first touches are woeful. He’s got all the assets to be one of the best, he just needs to improve his mental focus all round... he looks ’dopey’ at times. Hopefully it’s just a youth thing and he’ll learn his trade as one of the best.

Alan Holmes
89 Posted 20/09/2014 at 13:22:46
John 78 (sounds biblical), yes we are too slow at the back. There are too many back ways and sideways passes which invariably end up with Howard who then hoofs it up the middle. When we have possession in the opponents half we play some great stuff, so if we can just move it forward quicker, or cleverer all will be well.

Oh yes and we need a decent keeper, Tim’s saves were as usual more style than substance (he made routine saves look difficult). Also someone needs to tell him that he is allowed to catch the ball.

Wayne Smyth
91 Posted 20/09/2014 at 16:16:51
John, under Moyes I don't remember being more relaxed when defending.

We used to give the opposition the ball so much it ended up in our net more often than under Martinez's possession based system.

This season we've conceded too many early on, but Chelsea and Arsenal are two top quality sides who will score a hat-full against most teams.

Watching Arsenal beating Villa away 0-3 after 60 minutes just now, you wonder if an unlucky 2-2 draw was quite the awful result that many made it out to be.

Jim Bennings
93 Posted 20/09/2014 at 18:02:03
Redshite don't look like they can defend either... shite.

Let's hope we are bold enough to attack them next week, still got to be clever though and make sure we don't give that twat Sterling any space, clearly by a country mile their best player since Suarez left.

Derek Knox
94 Posted 20/09/2014 at 18:23:26
Jim Bennings (#94),

Hope your'e not feeling sorry for our neighbours across the park.

Personally, I am hoping West Ham continue or even up the tempo second half and stuff the RS where they belong, below us.

Brent Stephens
95 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:24:38
WHU beauties!
Mark Tanton
96 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:24:25
Doesn't matter what form they're in, they'll likely murder us as usual!
Kunal Desai
97 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:24:15
This isn't a very good Liverpool side; defensively they look woeful... but I still fear us every time we go to Anfield, and with back-to-back defeats they'll be fired up even more.

I'm not in the slightest looking forward to next week.

Brent Stephens
98 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:25:44
The form is with us and against rs. We just need all our guys to step up to the plate next week. No fear! I'm sure there must be a Spanish equivalent of that.
Gerry Quinn
99 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:27:06
We WILL all enjoy next week - we'll thump the RS
Mike Hughes
100 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:30:59
Opened my first drink of the evening when the third WHU goal went in. Might listen to the local radio moan-ins now. Cheers.
Colin Glassar
101 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:37:34
Don't underestimate the rs, at home, in the derby. Despite not looking like anything without rat boy and old creasehead looking his age the shite will up their game at home against us.

I'd love us to batter them but I'll take a draw tbh. Let's beat Palace first.

David Greenwood
102 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:47:35
Sensible head on Colin. Three points from Palace, beat a good Swansea team midweek and then throw everything at them next weekend.
Karl Jones
103 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:45:24
As much as I hate to say it, Everton are beaten before they play at Anfield. There's been a mental block for years... A 0-0 draw would be a good result against the Sky faves... But here's hoping as always!
David Greenwood
104 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:49:45
I think the players are starting to get a different attitude, Karl. I can't see Eto'o thinking he is beat before he goes anywhere. Barry, Mirallas, Naisy, Stones, don't give a shit who they are playing, they have an inner belief. This will be rubbing off on the others. Colin's right though, we have to beat Palace tomorrow.
Jim Bennings
105 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:46:03
I think the key for our players next week is to play the players of Liverpool and not the actual whole occasion, when we do that at Anfield we never do anything but freeze in the headlights.

Martinez would do just as well to give them all ear plugs as the teams walk out in the tunnel so our lads don't start thinking "oh shit" as soon as the atmosphere cranks up decibels.

I keep saying it, it is high time we left our mark at Anfield; it's been way too long... I mean, in the last 15 years, how many goals have we even scored there?

It's time for a new Blue hero, methinks.

Jamie Crowley
106 Posted 20/09/2014 at 19:52:23
Karl -

Hopefully the players' confidence grew seeing the RS go down at West Ham.

hahaha

Karl Jones
107 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:00:01
If you try to look at it from an unbiased point of view, theres hardly a player you would swap for one of theirs...Maybe the centre backs, but personally, I think we have better players in every other position, especially Midfield.
Kevin Tully
108 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:04:11
Karl is spot on – as soon as that dirge starts playing, our old guard turn into gibbering wrecks. Wouldn't you if the preparation for the last 10 years involved being warned how dangerous the opposition are?

Even Distin and Jagielka cannot be trusted. I would go with Stones and Alcaraz. Lukaku, Naismith, Mirallas and Eto'o will be relishing the challenge, Coleman, McCarthy and Barry are fine. The rest are prone to freeze in a big game at the rat-hole. No Osman or Pienaar please – weak.

Graham Mockford
109 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:17:52
The last time we won at Anfield was also 27 September – 15 years ago. I know this because it was the day my daughter was born...... I've had worse days.
Mark Tanton
110 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:30:33
Who has scored there in an Everton shirt since Campbell's early winner fifteen years ago? I can only think of Cahill and Lescott.
John Daley
111 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:35:47
Distin and Beckford in a 2-2 draw.
Mark Tanton
112 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:39:52
Ah of course, thanks John. My worst memory in recent years was seeing them go down to ten men early and jist knowing they'd still win. We've made it far too easy for far too long.
Jim Bennings
113 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:44:01
Since 1999 when Kev Campbell scored there our goalscorers have been as follows..

Kev Campbell 2000 in a 3-1 loss.

Tomasz Radzinski 2002 in a 1-1 draw.

Tim Cahill in 2005 and 2006 respectively both in defeats.

Tim Cahill stuck again 2009 in a 1-1 draw.

Distin and Beckford in a 2-2 draw way back in January 2011 were our last scorers there.

7 goals in 15 years, why is that?

We have in that time managed to score lots at Old Trafford even at Stamford Bridge but we are just never ever ourselves anymore at Anfield.

I would dearly love to see it change next week but I won't be holding my breath, I really wont.

Mark Tanton
114 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:53:30
I might put a bet on us being 2-0 after quarter or an hour. Winnings would numb the pain a tiny bit.
Jim Bennings
115 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:52:55
In other words we have only scored in 6 of the last 14 Anfield derbies.

Disgraceful record no other way of putting it especially when we had such a proud record in the '90s despite being a limited team fighting in the bottom half.
We used to score there at least every year.

Our last Kop end goal in the league was 9 years ago, unbelievable, that's always been a trait that every Everton player/legend in the making has been fucking desperate to achieve.

We need it next week.

Mark Tanton
116 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:00:01
Let's not underestimate Palace like last year when they took us to pieces. Not the same side but a similar trap awaits if we don't be professional and at it. Then we can go to Anfield with three straight wins. The Dogs of War would regularly upset them and we would do well to take a lesson or two from them.
Karl Jones
117 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:58:34
Can anyone remember us getting a penalty in a Derby? I remember some stonewall pens that were never given. Nevin fouled at Anfield in the FA Cup..Lescott by a guilty looking Carragher at goodison. Even back as far as Gary Jones being pulled down in the box by Hughes at goodison. So don't expect any favours from the Ref whoever it is.
Mark Tanton
118 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:03:56
If Nevin had won that penalty at the Anfield Road end we'd have never had the 4-4 and pushed Dalglish out the door.
David Nelson
119 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:01:28
Dustin had a good goal disallowed there in 2013..

I don't see us losing this time. Brenda is a fuckin blag merchant and they've had there occasional good season. Let's just win tomorrow for now.

Alan Holmes
120 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:05:13
I reckon a good double next week: Everton, and USA In the Ryder Cup.
Carl Sanderson
121 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:06:29
Karl 118,

We have had one penalty at Anfield in 77 years. That was in 1988.

Peter Bell
122 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:15:18
Scored by Wayne Clarke after Trevor Steven brought down on the box, how about that for a memory.
David Greenwood
123 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:15:08
One penalty in 77 years, that's an outrage. Bet we don't hear that mentioned in the build-up to the game. It will all be our shit record against them and the number of red cards, can't keep our heads, blah blah blah. No wonder, one penalty in 77 years!
Peter Bell
124 Posted 20/09/2014 at 21:16:49
And Wayne Clarke had a perfectly good winner disallowed that day also, nothing changes then.
Steve Jenkins
125 Posted 21/09/2014 at 01:31:04
102 What Colin said - we can win there, but I still feel we won’t. I think it’ll be another season and 2 transfer windows before we have a squad strong enough to win there.

It’s only our defence that’s giving me reservations and particularly Jags – visions of Sterling doing him for pace & you just know Sturridge gets passed fit days before.

Also, as much of a Martinez fan as I am, he has to have a different mentality to win there, they’ll come out fired up all guns blazing we have to be tough to beat first like Chelsea and Villa and park two buses if that’s what it takes for large periods.

I’d love to have Lambert of Villa in charge for one match a season as he can’t seem to fail to win at Anfield and tactically has it spot on every year. I’m confident it’ll happen over the next couple of seasons but I’d take a point this year.

Let’s concentrate on tomorrow first – big 3 points if we can keep the momentum going tomorrow.

Vince Hindson
126 Posted 20/09/2014 at 20:33:58
Graham #110 - and how excited is young Kevina for her upcoming birthday?

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