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Reader Comments (11)

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Chris Williams
1 Posted 03/01/2017 at 07:58:12
Thanks Paul. I was feeling much the same as you and by the sound of it for much the same reason.

This was a fine detox session, like a colonic irrigation for the emotions.

Jim Harrison
2 Posted 03/01/2017 at 12:03:15
I thought ROM looked grumpy after his goal! Reckon he was pissed off with the poor service up until the latter stages

We really need to play to his strengths more. He is far better when the ball is played for him to run on to or to turn with the pace of the ball.

Anto Byrne
4 Posted 03/01/2017 at 12:23:58
Rewind 12 months and I dare say there is some improvement.
Tony Abrahams
5 Posted 03/01/2017 at 12:33:01
Good story, Paul. I have been feeling the very same way about going to Goodison, for a while now, except I haven't even been sick. But like most blues, I live in hope, and it's usually around this time of the year that I tip us for the Cup!

It's frustrating because I think we all feel that this team has a lot more to give, if it's played in the right way and, once he gets a partner, Lukaku turns into a proper player.

Keep going, and keep posting, Paul, and hopefully we will see much more lively performances once the manager gets it right.

Danny Broderick
6 Posted 03/01/2017 at 12:39:09
They must have cheered you up Paul, you've given the players higher marks than normal! Good report mate.
Antonio Michaels
7 Posted 03/01/2017 at 12:44:55
Excellent day out to Goodison and a great three points, good write up as ever.
Peter Anthony
8 Posted 03/01/2017 at 16:40:48
Thanks for the report, great to read of a win and signs of improvement. Happy new year.

Too many hopes crashed and burned over the years to be genuinely optimistic, but here's hoping anyway New Dockside Stadium befitting status as true footballing aristocracy, plus on field team performances to be really proud of.

Dare I dream? Of course. I never learn. COYB.

Andy Crooks
9 Posted 03/01/2017 at 19:23:18
Super stuff, Paul. As a supporter who rarely gets to games, this is the report I enjoy most. Well done.

I don't want to put you on the spot but... what is the view of you and your mates of Koeman?

Paul Traill
10 Posted 03/01/2017 at 19:48:37
Andy (#10). Thank you, mate.

On Koeman, I think like most, we're a bit torn on him. He without doubt needs time and a few transfer windows to get the team he wants, you have to understand that. But, on the other hand, I look at the performances and results against a few of the poorer teams in the league and you have to be disappointed.

The poor performances against Swansea, Hull, Watford and Southampton (away) have really cost us and the team should have enough to beat them. You can't use the "it isn't his team" for them fixtures. That said, I'd have certainly have taken 7th at the start of 2017 had it have been offered at the start of the season.

In short - he's doing okay but there's room for improvement.

Dave Ganley
11 Posted 03/01/2017 at 21:57:47
I totally agree with your comments there, Paul. Koeman does need time but you do have to wonder about some of the games you mentioned and how lethargic we looked.

It has been a really strange season so far, poor football at times and the team looking like they only met minutes before a game yet somehow we are 7th. It makes you wonder what we may achieve if it all clicks consistently.

It may well be that the tough love that Ross has been receiving from Koeman will work on him. He is no longer guaranteed his place so will have to work for it. His header against Hull was excellent and he played his part again on Saturday.

I still think playing deeper is his better position rather than the no 10 position but so long as I see progress then all is good. He is a work in progress and hopefully with time Koeman can finally realise his potential.

I am finding going to Goodison a much better experience than the last couple of seasons but it is still hard work at times. However, as I say, somehow we are 7th without playing particularly well, so onward and upwards. Looking forward to the cup on Saturday.

Brent Stephens
12 Posted 03/01/2017 at 22:04:35
Enjoyed your report again, Paul.

"Baines's tackle fell invitingly to Davies." – I wondered if he'd dropped a bollock and I'd missed it!


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