Come the end of the season I think this may be a point gained, since so many top sides hit the buffers at the windswept mosh pit Brittania. Onwards and upwards is the trajectory on the whole and this month is indeed pivotal on and off the pitch. In Roberto I trust... NSNO.

Osman was the game-saver, but here's one vote for Alcaraz as MOTM. Only his second Everton start, and with a teenager next to him... but the "Rock" was flawless defensively and hit an excellent crossfield pass to Osman that enabled him to get into the box for the PK.

A big sigh of relief to see two "backup" (or should I say next generation/s) center halves put on a decent display. And look like proper players. At this point I feel comfortable with any combination of the four of them, including perhaps the much vaunted 3 center half approach at some point (perhaps when we're missing Barry or McCarthy).

I must say that Stoke's play was better than expected. I'd have taken a point before the game based on the team we had, but in the end was disappointed with one. And we can certainly play some nice footy. We need more end product however against these teams.

Onwards and upwards ...

The glass gets that bit more above half-way full by the week. This week has Alcaraz and Stones giving individual and joint performances that add that bit more to our stock of riches.

"Times change from banners, scarfs, rosettes, rattles... and dancing in Trafalgar square fountains. Could they come back this season?"

Well, I've asked my tailor on Savile Row to find my measurements so he can knock up a new swimming cozzy (slightly more generous dimensions than last time).

Without Delboy or somebody else brought in during this window, Everton still lack a genuine game changer.

If I were Hughes I would kick Pennant from arsehole to breakfast time for being stupid, yet again we weren't going to score if we played till midnight.

As Patrick said we're on the crest of slump averaging 2 pts per game, plenty below us would like to be in a slump like this.

Worrying that the top 3 are starting to pull away

Given the changes in the last 3 games I think we have done very well. It just though goes to highlight how small our squad is.I wouldn't be surprised to see Johnny at some point over the next few weeks if he doesn't move elsewhere.

We need a striker and more defensive reinforcements. Disitin is only out for 10 days so should be back for the Norwich game.
a good cup run would be good.
I would have paid £100 to be in the MU dressing room after their match yesterday. Spurs were not that good, MU were terrible

Just be glad we are not in Bolton's financial position, over £163 million in debt and likely to be heading for administration

I put the blame on Coleman for the Stoke goal. He should've been on Assaidi's ass throughout the game.

As for us not scoring, I can say we ran out of luck.

Too many blocks from the Stoke's defenders, getting more and more agitated by their defences, hitting the post twice, Pienaar and Baines not up to their usual standards, Osman not coming on at half time, etc...