Niasse adds flourish to Calvert-Lewin brace as Everton progress

Wednesday, 20 September, 2017 257comments  |  Jump to most recent

Jonjoe Kenny made a much-anticipated start for the first team

Everton made comfortable work of a poor Sunderland side to ease into the fourth round of the League Cup under at Goodison Park tonight.

Jonjoe Kenny started his first senior game of the season at right back while Mason Holgate was deployed at left back and Oumar Niasse was named on the bench.

A quiet opening quarter of an hour finally yielded an effort towards goal after Dominic Calvert-Lewin had got free and Nikola Vlasic lashed a volley into the side netting.

Later in the first half, Sandro Ramirez whipped a free kick on target but his effort was caught well by the Sunderland 'keeper.

Emerging as the standout performer of the first half, Vlasic went close again with an excellent effort that just missed.

The Croatian helped create the opening goal, though, playing in Dominic Calvert-Lewin to fire Everton into the lead for the first goal in any competitioon since Gylfi Sigurdsson's in Split.

The second half was just a few minutes old when Sandro slipped a great ball in for Calvert-Lewin who doubled his account by hammering a shot into the top corner to make it 2-0.

It was very nearly 3-0 shortly afterwards when Davy Klaassen won the ball back and crossed for Calvert-Lewin but the young striker was denied a hat-trick when his diving header came off the post.

James Vaughan missed narrowly with a header before Niasse came on and he would notch his first senior goal for Everton with a nice finish from Tom Davies' ball. The Senegalese striker took the midfielder's pass down and cracked a half-volley home to finish the scoring

Kick-off: 7:45pm, Wednesday 20 September 2017
Referee: Oliver Langford
Last Time: Everton 0-2 Norwich City

Everton: Stekelenburg, Kenny, Williams {c}, Keane, Holgate, Besic, Davies, Klaassen, Vlasic, Calvert-Lewin, Sandro.

Subs: Robles, Lennon, Martina, Gueye, Sigurdsson, Niasse, Lookman

Article continues below video content


 

Reader Comments (257)

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Dave Williams
1 Posted 20/09/2017 at 18:58:57
Who plays left-back??

Great to see young players given a chance but will there be balance? We will soon see!

Dave Williams
2 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:00:29
Vlasic at left wingback with a 3-5-2 thinking it through.
Karl Jones
3 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:01:11
Dire
James Macdonald
4 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:08:41
Looks like Kenny at left back to me. Tough being asked to play out of position. I recall Seamus struggled in an early European game at left back.
Phillip Warrington
5 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:08:42
Will Koeman get surprised by Sunderland's tactics...???
Bill Gienapp
6 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:09:52
I can't believe Lookman can't even get a start. Otherwise, an interesting enough mix.
David Booth
7 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:10:14
Much as I am delighted to see Kenny given a chance, Holgate is a centre half! Why doesn't our Dutch dunce of a manager play him there, instead of anywhere but?

If he's good enough to 'fill in' at full back, he must be good enough to be given a run out in his natural/preferred position, especially when Jagielka and Williams are such an obvious liability nowadays.

Koeman's sacrifice of foresight for favouritism will be his downfall.

Brian Wilkinson
8 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:11:26
Surely he cannot play Kenny at left back but nothing surprises me anymore.
Gaz Smith
9 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:23:48
Stekelenburg
Kenny Keane Holgate Garbutt
Besic Gueye
Lookman Klaassen Vlasic
Calvert-Lewin
Eddie Dunn
10 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:25:01
Good to see a different set-up; but worried about Kenny out of position.
Stan Schofield
11 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:27:46
I wonder if he puts players out of position because he's a bit thick?
Tony Twist
12 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:32:47
Must be back 3 of Holgate, Williams and Keane with a midfield 5 of Kenny, Davies, Klaassen, Besic, Vlasic but you never know with Koeman!
Lenny Kingman
14 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:34:52
Even that Devil's Druel can't lose to Slumberland... Can they?
Lee Courtliff
15 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:40:28
Streams?
Kevin Prytherch
16 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:41:02
I hope Holgate starts at left back and Kenny right back, or in a 3-5-2 as wing back.

One of his main strengths is getting down the line and putting crosses in, we lose a lot of that if he's at left back and having to check back to cross.

Don Alexander
17 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:42:00
Interesting line-up, three across the back, two up front. Who knows, we may see some pace, pressing and scoring, or are such thoughts now poison on TW?
Ciarán McGlone
18 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:44:57
There won't be any Lee, its unbroadcastable under public decency laws...

Stan Schofield
19 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:48:21
Don, thoughts of pace, pressing and scoring would appear to be poison on ToffeeWeb.
Peter Gorman
20 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:49:17
Don that is all we want to see (along with a win for a change).

Made up Kenny gets a chance.

Barry Pearce
22 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:50:41
If he plays Kenny at left back, he must hate the lad. He's a much better right back than Holgate, IMHO. Square pegs in round holes again.
Dennis Ng
23 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:53:24
I would have preferred Robles over Stekelenburg and an attacking option over Williams. This is the time to test players and formations. Do we really worry about a cup tie if we're thinking our Premier League form is so dire?
Peter Gorman
24 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:55:38
Is Kenny at left-back? Are you serious?
John Graham
25 Posted 20/09/2017 at 19:55:52
I'm happy with that team. Probably wouldn't have Williams in. Three at the back and then maybe Kenny and Vlasic on the wings. With Klaassen supporting the front two.

I think Calvert-Lewin and Sandro could be quite mobile. We'll soon see. I hope Lookman gets on to show what he's got too, and maybe Niasse deserves a go.

John Smith
26 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:04:57
No streams but you can listen live.

http://www.evertonfc.com/listenlive

Christy Ring
27 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:11:44
Why can't he pick players in their proper positions?

Kenny right-back, Holgate centre-back, and Williams dropped.

Aarron Stobie
28 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:16:56
Why can't we just take our chances or play like this in the league?
Ian Lloyd
29 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:22:53
Surprise, surprise... we're the only premier league team not to score yet.

We are second-rate from start to finish.

Dennis Ng
30 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:35:09
Aaron... different set of players that Koeman dare not try until today.
Ciarán McGlone
31 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:39:05
Won't comment on the game... But my.God, Snodin is an awful commentator.
Tony Kost
32 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:41:13
I use the app FotMob – it has written live tickers on all tonight's League Cup games apart from Everton's. Very disappointing!!

That aside, reiterating others' comments – Do you think Koeman does things deliberately to wind the fans up!!

Why no Holgate at centre-back? and JonJoe should be playing at right back!!!

what a spoon!

Peter Cummings
33 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:53:50
Hope we can increase the lead and, for once, get further than the other lot across the park at least in this competition. I can't follow the game so have to keep up on the internet, very frustrating.
John Smith
34 Posted 20/09/2017 at 20:55:00
Well, it's working. So far we're winning two-nil.
Dermot Byrne
36 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:01:25
2-0

It is our cup!

John Graham
37 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:12:26
Yes. Niasse on the park – watch out, boys... he's a whirlwind.
Steve Cotton
38 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:26:03
Well in, John; that probably helped...
Mark Morrissey
39 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:27:15
It's as though somebody has been reading out all the posts on TW to Koeman and a fucking light is slowly going on in his thick head. It's also like he'll listen to our collective thoughts but won't quite do exactly what we all want because he wants it to be seen to be his own idea.

I can see him after the game saying words akin to " Okay, so I need to give some of the youngsters a chance and Niasse a game too, this was all my idea, I am a legend"

Oumar Niasse, back of the net! Go and eat a massive slice of humble pie, Mr Koeman; no locker for him but he scores you a belter. Koeman – you're a welt!!!

John Smith
40 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:29:28
Get in, Niasse! On the field and less than five minutes later, he scores! About fucking time he got some minutes. The only player on our roster to score two goals vs Liverpool.
John Graham
41 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:31:54
Go Niasse! I knew you could do it, la! Give Koeman something to think about.
Tony Kost
42 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:33:20
Niasse! – give Koeman the arse!!
Rob Baker
43 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:34:41
Niasse scores, we RIOT!
Mark Morrissey
44 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:35:21
Now all you need to do is make amends with Ross and stop being a stoical, grumpy stick-in-the-mud Dutchman.

Holding grudges will get you fucking nowhere in life. When he's fit again, give young Ross a chance to prove himself. We just might forgive your ignorance and cancel the taxi.

Brian Wilkinson
45 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:39:20
Spot on Mark@39, we were all calling for Kenny, Calvert-Lewin to be played as striker and not winger and Niasse and Lookman to be given a chance.

I'm so made up Niasse scored tonight; if ever a player deserved a chance, it's Niasse.

Peter Cummings
47 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:41:51
Made up for Niasse, the lad has repaid the insult by Koeman with a stunner, after being relegated to the stiffs without a complaint, with an 'Up Yours, Boss' reply!!!
Ray Smith
48 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:42:16
Will Calvert-Lewin start against Bournemouth?

What future Niasse? You have to admit that he has been treated like shit, especially by Koeman.

Comes on, scores, up yours, Ronald. However, Niasse has conducted himself admirably and that has been thrown his way, without really giving him a chance.

One goal doesn't make a season, but is the answer under Koeman's nose, or is he too stubborn to admit it.

Calvert-Lewin is the future, Niasse? let's be fair, he hasn't been given a fair crack of the whip.

If Calvert-Lewin doesn't start Saturday and Niasse isn't on the bench at least, time to walk, Mr Koeman!!!

John G Davies
49 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:42:23
Mark 44,

Hope that's not a grudge there.

Dave Older
50 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:43:57
Niasse!!! Get in there!! Made up for him, good result tonight!! Let's carry the momentum into Saturday. COYB
Mark Morrissey
51 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:44:50
Lookman was like a firecracker out there. Koeman open your eyes man and register what this lad can bring to the team collective. Yes he's raw but he's got to be given a chance
Amit Vithlani
53 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:47:23
Pleased for Niasse. How many times has Mirallas been photo'd at the away end when not playing?

Top bloke. No way better to answer a manager who never rated you than on the pitch.

Mark Morrissey
54 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:50:41
John at 49, Ha-ha, you've sussed me out. Give that man a balloon. That's made me laugh. You're not wrong. I need to take some of my own medicine. He does my crust but I will forgive him if he does what we all want. Tonight, he's started to listen.
Colin Glassar
55 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:53:35
I bet we get one of the Manc clubs away in the next round.
Gordon Crawford
56 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:56:12
Niasse is a legend already. :) I'm delighted for the lad. Treated like trash yet stays grounded and humble. I hope he now goes on and has a cracking season. :)

Good result, lets now go and build some momentum. Also, why was Kenny played out of position?

Raymond Fox
57 Posted 20/09/2017 at 21:57:25
Good posts Mark each one on the money.

I've said before, if players, managers, media and club officials want to know what fans really think, where better than fans' forums? Especially TW in Evertons case.

The comments might make their hair curl and they may not always like what they read but it's from the horse's mouth.

John G Davies
59 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:02:29
Really pleased for Niasse. He deserves the goal.

Calvert-Lewin has got to start on Saturday; I would tell him to play within the lines of the 18-yard box.

Trevor Peers
60 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:05:58
Well done, Niasse lad!

I, like many others, gave him dogs abuse when Roberto signed him, but that loan spell at Hull proved he can score goals. I hope Ron gives him a few games now, god only knows we do need a goal scorer. Not to play him would be criminal.

Gordon White
61 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:10:09
Who'd have thought it. Does he get a locker now?

Lookman needs to start. And Holgate; well we know where his position is... And it's not right-back.

Simon Bradley
62 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:10:53
LOL. Chelsea away.
James Morgan
63 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:11:12
Chelsea away next! Oh well, it was fun while it lasted!
Stephen Brown
64 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:13:21
Chelsea away!! Why!!!!!!
Simon Bradley
65 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:13:37
We are destined never to win this cup.
Raymond Fox
66 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:13:39
Bloody hell.
Neil Copeland
67 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:13:53
Oumar Niasse,
Oumar Niasse,
Give him a locker,
Oumar Niasse!
Mark Morrissey
68 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:16:32
Feck!! Why not Bristol at home???
Dave Older
69 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:19:57
Cheers Phil Thomson!!! Couldn't really get a more difficult draw than that... sigh.
Stan Schofield
70 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:21:34
Can't see why we can't beat Chelsea away, so long as the right tactics are used, with players not played out of position. What are the chances?
Eddie Dunn
71 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:22:00
Good -Chelsea away! At least there will be less moaning if we lose! They might underestimate us...
David Pearl
72 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:23:32
Holgate might have to keep learning the right-backrole. Seriously, does anyone actually think he will ever make it as a centre-back? Maybe in a 3 yes but he's not got the physique (imo).

Obviously pleased for Niasse. Koeman dismissed him after seeing him perform last years pre-season. I watched as Niasse ran under a ball coming towards him so he wouldn't have to head it. That was one of my old tricks from when I was playing Under-10s.

Hopefully this does his confidence the world of good and he starts to play like a man... And then, okay, maybe he can have his own locker.

Lewis Barclay
73 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:26:23
How is Lookman not starting every game?
Mark Riding
74 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:28:49
image
Tony Hill
76 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:33:16
Calvert-Lewin was obviously excellent, not just with his goals but his all-round effort. He's starting to become very interesting – those were good finishes and it was a shame about his header.

I was also very impressed with Vlasic. 19 years of age and he looks a proper player to me, composed and intelligent.

A good night and we should not be scared of Chelsea, of course.

Saturday's so important but let's enjoy this one. Again, as at Man Utd, no hint of a team not trying for the manager, which is also encouraging.

Paul Birmingham
77 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:34:19
Decent win, made up for the young lads tonight and Niasse scoring.

Typical luck, getting Chelsea away mid week, but bad runs at certain grounds surely must end one day? But one game at a time. Let's see how we shape on Saturday.

Nice to wake up having a victory for a change. Who will Koeman pick for Bournemouth?

Christy Ring
79 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:36:52
What's the bet, he'll change back to two defensive mifielders on Saturday, and no Niasse in the squad?
Mark McParlan
80 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:38:46
Just got back from the match... there's a few points I'd like to make.

Firstly, we've been proved that we were right all along where Jonjoe Kenny is concerned. The natural successor to Coleman during this spell has been at our club all along, in the U23 League Title winning, U20 World Cup winning Kenny from Kirkdale. Good on him.

On Saturday I would like our back 4 to look like this :

Baines - Holgate - Keane - Kenny.

Secondly, the players showed us what happens when you throw off the shackles of two defensive midfielders and play Davies and Klaassen - both of whom played very well today. Klaassen is clearly much more technically able than Tom, but Davies gets involved to a greater extent.

Besic is a woeful player. He must have given the ball away on the edge of our box about 40 times. Sandro was hit and miss (Jesus Christ those free kicks), Calvert-Lewin's excellent leading of the line for such a young lad was justly rewarded with his 2 good goals. I have special praise for Vlasic, he was excellent throughout.

///////////////////////////////

Here's an interesting take on our recent results:

Everton 1 - 0 Ruzumberok (W) (No Siggy)

Ruzumberok 0 - 1 Everton (W) (No Siggy)

Everton 1 - 0 Stoke (W) (No Siggy)

Everton 2 - 0 Hadjuk Split (W) (No Siggy)

Man City 1 - 1 Everton (D) (No Siggy)

Hadjuk Split 1 - 1 Everton (D) (Siggy)

Chelsea 2 - 0 Everton (L) (Siggy)

Everton 0 - 3 Tottenham (L) (Siggy)

Atalanta 3 - 0 Everton (L) (Siggy)

Man United 4 - 0 Everton (L) (Siggy)

Everton 3 - 0 Sunderland (W) (No Siggy)

There's a common denominator in all the games were losing. Whenever Sigurdsson doesn't play, we seem to win. Just a thought.

Paul Hewitt
81 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:41:41
Mark @80. You blaming Sigurdsson then?
Minik Hansen
82 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:42:19
Chelsea away. At least we won't save them to the later stages! COYB!
Ray Smith
83 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:42:38
So it's all over! Chelsea away!

Come on guys, if Koeman looked beyond the end of his nose, the answer is there.

Calvert-Lewin probably won't score 25 goals in a season. However, give the lad a chance.

If you really want top 4, pay top 4 prices. That said, what top 4 striker would currently join us. Answer: Somebody on the way down, looking for a payday.

In short make the most of what we have. Who would honestly join us to further their career when Champions League is a no-no?

Sean McCarthy
84 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:46:08
Besic isn't good enough. Simple as that. Gave the ball away all night. Seem to remember the 1st thing he did in an Everton shirt was a ridiculous back heel straight to Drogba who went thru and scored. It looks like he still hasn't learned from it! You need to do more than a few reckless challenges to be any good (or use) at this level.

I said the other day that if Sandro scores more than 5 goals for Everton I'll eat my hat. Well I think my hat is safe!! He's worse than Stracqualursi was!! And please don't tell me he's a young lad in a foreign country – so is Jesus, so is Sanè, and let's not forget lLukaku has been banging in Premier League goals since he was 18!! Sandro, like Besic, just isn't good enough

Peter Mills
85 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:51:49
It was important to get the win, even though Sunderland were poor. There was a better shape to the team without 2 defensive midfielders, and more movement, especially from Davies and Vlasic.

The full backs did ok, Holgate sticking manfully to his task despite playing on his wrong side. Calvert-Lewin was excellent, and I still think Lookman will be a very good player. I can't say I was impressed by Niasse's general play but, fair play to him, his attitude has been first class and he took his goal well.

Dave Abrahams
86 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:52:22
Sean (#84) I'll have £10 on Sandro scoring more than five goals for Everton this season, even money okay.
Jerome Shields
87 Posted 20/09/2017 at 22:52:42
The second-team players are better than the first-team players they replaced. Thank God. All we need is Barkley and Coleman back and the introduction of promising younger players. Lucky someone else had the sense to bring good players into the club. Maybe Koeman has at last been forced to learn something.

Niasse can perform and looks like he could be Everton's saviour. I love the fact he is an Everton reject. Well done, fellow supporters in keeping him in contention. A new Everton hero is born.

Mike Berry
88 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:08:27
The Lost Niasse Monster" is released... and scores a monster goal!!!,"The Lost Niasse Monster " is released .and scores a monster goal ! !,,BlueKfrog,1,23:01:16,,90.204.68.166,ok,17485,09/20/2017 23:01:16,MARTINBERRY57,reader,, 852574,35520,toffeeweb,20/09/2017,Bill Gienapp,gienapp@hotmail.com,"Sean (84) - close, it was Costa actually.
Brent Stephens
89 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:11:08
Did I see Niasse get a load of back-slapping from our lads for his goal?! He seems very popular with the other players. That's very interesting.

Good performance, good result. Besic – aagghh! Calvert-Lewin –excellent. Vlasic and Davies have good motors. Kenny solid without being outstanding.

Jamie Crowley
90 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:18:37
I sincerely hope Niasse plays a part for the remainder of this season and bags double-digit goals in Premier League games.

He's been treated terribly. He's not a bazillion-pound striker. But Jesus he's not that awful! Dude keeps scoring...

He should have been transferred. He wasn't. He's never, from anything I seen / read, done anything but conduct himself professionally while being treated like dogshit.

My new favorite underdog.

Dave Abrahams
91 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:20:15
Brent (#90) – yes, every Everton player bar the goalkeeper ran to Niasse and celebrated his goal with him. Vlasic and Davies were very good.

Brent, you didn't want Jonjoe to score a hat-trick on his debut, did you?

Andy Crooks
92 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:22:03
That was a fine finish by Niasse. Some humble pie for the coach.
Ste Traverse
93 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:22:08
What a fucking shit draw for us. Fucking bollocks.

Another exit from this competition now looms.

Jamie Crowley
94 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:23:22
If you ever pulled for Stracqularsi, surely you have to get behind Niasse!

Brent Stephens
95 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:25:58
Dave (#92) – "You didn't want Jonjoe to score a hat-trick on his debut, did you?"

Yes, I'm a tough task-master! If Hibbert can score so freely...!

Paul Kossoff
96 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:28:45
A nice finish? The Niasse goal was first class, well done lad.
Ernie Baywood
97 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:29:45
How was Kenny? I've only seen highlights and he produced a great chance for Lookman.

Happy for Niasse but not getting carried away... he did look awful before Koeman saw fit to destroy him.

Brent Stephens
98 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:32:59
Ernie, Kenny was very solid. Didn't let himself or the team down. I like his composure on the ball. Never seems flustered (compare Jags and Williams) and good decision-making.
Dennis Ng
99 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:48:25
Good goals all three of them. Just got to watch highlights. We need to be more adventurous and definitely should give the youngsters a run in the Premier League games.
Terry Underwood
100 Posted 20/09/2017 at 23:49:49
Look on the bright side. The Kopites would give their left bollock to play Chelsea away in the next round. :)
Ken Gray
101 Posted 20/09/2017 at 00:00:17
I'm Oumar the moon for Niasse. Well done, lad!
George Stuart
102 Posted 21/09/2017 at 00:11:45
The other day, I was looking at the high goal scorers list and noticed the assist list next to it.

Calvert-Lewin was on the assist list.... See where I'm going with this?

Sean McCarthy
103 Posted 21/09/2017 at 00:19:41
Dave – you're on!! Winnings/losses to charity of your choice.

Bill – indeed it was Costa and not Drogba. Same end result tho.

James Stewart
104 Posted 21/09/2017 at 00:32:24
Finally Calvert-Lewin up top and no goddamn Rooney. Vlasic great also and chuffed for Niasse, that was some finish. 4-3-3 suits us a lot better than 5 at the back or 4-2-3-1.
Dave Bowen
105 Posted 21/09/2017 at 00:35:15
There is a reason why Sandro was only £5 million & Niasse was £13.5 million & player of the year in Russia is because Niasse scores goals & Sandro doesn't. Sandro may be one for the future, but get Niasse in, Ron, and you may yet keep your job.
David Israel
106 Posted 21/09/2017 at 00:48:28
Vlasic was my Man of the Match. Very impressed with him. He's only – what? – 19, I think, but he certainly played with a lot of composure. The former Yugoslavia keeps producing some of the best players in Europe, as far as I'm concerned.

As most of you on here keep saying, Besic, I agree, is a big disappointment.

It's always nice for a striker to score, so tonight must have been a morale-booster for Calvert-Lewin. But, the striker who deserves the main mention is, of course, Niasse. Humble and professional lad, who deserved a break. With our lack of strikers, he obviously needs to be on the bench, at least.

David Israel
107 Posted 21/09/2017 at 00:53:58
Only after publishing my comment, did I notice the apparent contradiction between saying that the former Yugoslavia continues to produce some of the finest players in Europe, and then going on to decry Besic.

But no, it's no contradiction, come to think of it: Besic is the exception that proves the rule! ;-)

Peter Gorman
108 Posted 21/09/2017 at 01:33:09
Haha David, I was about to point that out. Agree there is a grand history from that part of the world, particularly Croatia; Suker, Prosinecki and Boban were amazing.

Made up with all the young lads tonight, especially Kenny. Did my eyes deceive me but wasn't he running in on goal when Calvert-Lewin grabbed his second? Mini-Coleman.

Peter Gorman
109 Posted 21/09/2017 at 01:37:13
No, it was Vlasic
Phil Gardner
110 Posted 21/09/2017 at 01:54:26
I have no idea how many of you chaps were actually at the game, but I've read some rubbish on here tonight. Sunderland were shocking, we weren't much better.

Klaassen looks lost against utter dross. I still have no idea what Besic is meant to be. Williams is a prancing clown of a player... dreadful. At best, a sideways passer; at worst, a walking free-kick, penalty, calamitous passback waiting to happen.

Vaughan outmuscled Keane and could have scored twice. Holgate Iooked like a baffled Sunday League player that MacManaman murdered when he came on.

Tom Davies merely minces about, tries to dribble, then gets dispossessed. This was against utter garbage incidentally. Anyone even remotely attempting to milk positivity from this game is an idiot.

I can't imagine Sean Dyche was papping his pants tonight... we are one weak, identity-less team there for the taking... Do not assume anything else by this result! Sorry that I never stayed home... Utter crap!

John Pierce
111 Posted 21/09/2017 at 03:03:39
Finally something nice to write about. Nice to win, better to score, superb to see Niasse celebrate.

From the hodgepodge of highlights and reports a stuttering effort, with some very nice individual efforts to an indifferent team performance.

But a team that felt thrown together, played as such.

Davies very good, Calvert-Lewin played as a centre forward did his job! Vlasic as already mentioned on the thread decent.

Will Koeman have learnt anything from that? It's possible based on taking Lewin off after 60 mins.

Sandro & Klaassen definitely need a more graded introduction into English football.

Very happy to get a win, so nice one, Ronald!

Darren Hind
113 Posted 21/09/2017 at 05:52:57
Vindication of what many have been saying for weeks.

Kenny – composed all night.

Calvert-Lewin – Those games down the right flank now look what they always were. Ridiculous. He should be told he is number 9 for the next one or two games so he can relax and play the game that has had Rhino tracking him since he coached him when he was a youngster.

This has shades of Davies and Holgate about it. The fans see things literally weeks before the penny drops with our Gormless manager.

I'm waiting for the first post to suggest Koeman has been fantastic in bringing on the kids.

Oh and Niasse... comedy gold. Every single head I could see was directed towards the dug out for Koeman's reaction. Suffice to say he was not doing cartwheels. His popularity amongst the players was evident as they mobbed him.

John Pierce: "Sandro and Klaassen definitely need a more graded introduction into English football."

Thanks for restoring some common sense. I could hardly believe my eyes when I read someone on here suggest that it was right to start them in every game in order for them to be "bedded in".


Nigel Munford
114 Posted 21/09/2017 at 06:04:26
Darren, I noticed Koeman's reaction was pretty poor, but to say that it was for Calvert-Lewin's goals as well. No passion at all from him.

He's going to have to eat humble pie at sometime and play these players, and in their correct positions.

Brian Porter
115 Posted 21/09/2017 at 06:31:52
Great post Darren (#114), couldn't agree more.

The total lack of emotion when Niasse scored summed Koeman up perfectly. Though he:d given Calvert-Lewin a tiny clap for his second, he wax either too petulant at being proved wrong, or totally indifferent to the pleasure being shown all around him that he just came across as being graceless, and, dare I say it, as if he really couldn't care less. Therein lies the biggest problem for me with Koeman.

In any business, large or small, the people who work for you as a manager, respond to stimulation and positive motivation but Koeman seemed unable or unwilling to acknowledge Niasse's contribution.

Koeman just appears to be totally disconnected from the players, and either can't or won't make even the smallest gesture that might begin to get them fighting for him. The lads did okay, Sunderland may not have been great but you can only beat what's in front of you.

The true acid test will come with the fallout from this game. Will Koeman acknowledge that Niasse, Calvert-Lewin, even Lennon and Lookman should be a bigger part of his plans or will he now revert to his Plan A, whatever that might be, as nobody has yet managed to work out what that is?

Time will tell.

Will Mabon
116 Posted 21/09/2017 at 06:50:55
Nice to hear from people at the game. I was travelling and listened in the car, Radio Merseyside. It sounded like just an okay performance but interesting to hear them say Koeman joined in the celebrations of Niasse's goal, not true it seems! Ronnie Goodlass did have a go at Koeman's treatment of the player after the game.

What did come across in the commentary was how much Klaassen appears to be struggling, and they discussed after the game that he is seriously off the pace and physicality.

I just watched highlights. How about Calvert-Lewin and Niasse up front on Saturday?

Will Mabon
117 Posted 21/09/2017 at 06:59:45
Brian, in the case of Niasse, I guess Koeman was probably unwilling to show much support. In other situations, probably unable.

I think that behind the hard man persona is a nervous and insecure man.

Anthony Hughes
118 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:25:40
A confidence boosting result. Let's hope he doesn't shit his pants and go back to to ultra defensive mode at the weekend. I hope Calvert-Lewin doesn't get sacrificed at the weekend and pushed out wide.
Rick Pattinson
119 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:30:23
Super Niasse... from the way this lad's been treated by the management from Day One, I'm soooo glad he's bagged a goal for the first team. Koeman giving him a start, actually supporting the lad and showing confidence in him will surely improve his game.

Knocking someone, dropping them into the void, and constantly trying to offload him would destroy anyone. The way Niasse has behaved has been incredible... never thrown his toys out of the pram. Give him a fucking chance.

Marc Sansum
120 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:38:33
Absolutely hilarious reading some of the posts before the game started; fans calling our manager 'thick' for playing Kenny out of position.
Dermot Byrne
121 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:43:15
“It was a great goal. A great goal,” said Koeman. “His first touch from his chest and the finish with his right foot was great. It was a perfect goal."

From The Echo on Niasse.

John G Davies
122 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:43:28
Marc (#121),

You should get on to TW more often mate if you want a laugh. That comment is mild compared to some of the belters posted. Just take a look at this thread to start you off.

John G Davies
123 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:45:03
That wasn't him, Dermot.
It was a Dutch ventriloquist
Dermot Byrne
124 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:53:12
Love it John G. Fake news!
Peter Mills
125 Posted 21/09/2017 at 07:58:31
Ronald Koeman was in my line of sight as Niasse scored, and he did celebrate by raising his arm, then applauding.
Adam Luszniak
127 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:00:13
Credit to Koeman for changing things up. Let's see if he reverts to playing 3 Number 10s against Bournemouth! I don't think Klaassen was excellent, however he displayed some nice touches and they were all in and around their box. That was the difference last night, we actually got players in their box!

Calvert-Lewin is a fantastic player. Darren Hind, perhaps Koeman played Calvert-Lewin on the right to give him Premier League exposure without the full goalscoring burden? Do you think it would have been best to hang him out to dry or ease him in gently?

Did we play better without Rooney?

Dean Johnson
128 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:03:18
If Niasse can score goals, surely we have a replacement for Lukaku?

I can't remember Rom's hold-up play being very good or indeed consistent but he found the net regularly. If Dom and Oumar can get some game time in their proper positions, surely these two should be given a go.

Sandro, stay on the wing, really not a striker

Joe Edwards
129 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:10:16
See what happens when you don't play Schneiderlin and play Kenny and play others in their strongest positions – not where you want them to play to accommodate two holding midfielders?

The problem is we will go back to the usual negative dross against Bournemouth.

John G Davies
130 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:12:09
Peter (#126),

Are you sure of that? Everyone looked at Koeman to see his reaction. Nobody else saw that.

Martin Nicholls
131 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:12:21
Marc (#121) – I wouldn't have used the word "hilarious" but otherwise spot on! Also interesting how so many can form such definitive opinions on the strength of no more than a radio commentary (which I assume did not tell them that Kenny was playing left-back) or maybe even less!

For the record, I thought that Holgate, who once again was playing out of his natural position, did reasonably well. Tom Davies, closely followed by Vlasic and obviously Calvert-Lewin, was MotM for me.

Steve Solomon
132 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:12:55
Pace, pace, pace! Yes. What a difference.

Calvert-Lewin looks like class in the making.

Well taken goal by Niasse, controlled it and side footed into the side netting. Nothing wrong there. Signs of life maybe?

I know, I know, it was weak opposition, but this is how confidence is built.

Geoff Evans
133 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:14:42
Niasse has surely got to be given an extended run. Chuffed for him, doesn't mouth off – just gets on with it, well done boy.
John G Davies
134 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:18:41
Adam (#128),

The best striker ever in the Premier League started the majority of his first season on the left wing.

Peter Mills
135 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:20:55
John (#131), yes, nothing extravagant, but definitely a favourable acknowledgment as the ball hit the net.


Thomas Lennon
136 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:26:42
Only seen the highlights (3 mins) but: fight and passion was there, Davies & Klaassen doing well. Calvert-Lewin good outside running in and inside the box, Niasse is a handy goalscorer from inside the box, quick feet, doesn't need much time and unlike Lookman a bit more assertive and willing to shoot and it is easy to see both very useful and developing.

Holgate performed well on the left in an attacking sense. Didn't see Sandro but Kenny did well. Vlasic wasn't involved in any goal but was available.

If all of those players carry on developing and perform against stronger teams ,we will be much better by Xmas. Doom and gloom? No.

Tony Hill
137 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:40:25
Sandro seems to be getting a bit of a rough ride but I thought he did well. He played quite withdrawn but strung things together pretty smoothly, helped defensively and looked to me to be finding his feet. Nice pass for Calvert-Lewin's second.
John Charles
138 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:41:44
A decent win against very poor opponents. Vaunghany had two good headers but really nothing else and it is sad to see the decline of Jack Rodwell. Calvert-Lewin was excellent, Kenny ok without really doing anything, Holgate lightweight, Vlasic good, Besic truly awful but Klaassen the worst because he was anonymous. This was his chance to grab a game by the collar and he failed abysmally.

Been a while since so many empty seats around me; the competition or the standard of play so far this season?

Will Mabon
139 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:42:39
Not got a huge all round game by any means, but play balls like that to Niasse, or play him through balls to run onto, he'll score goals. Watch him finding space away from defenders, and working the offside line, he's actually quite clever at it.
Ray Roche
140 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:54:25
John (#139),

I think it's the standard of play myself. I considered going and having my usual season-ticket seat but on a wet, crap Wednesday, especially having been soaked to the skin earlier in the day, the prospect of a 98-mile round-trip to watch sideways, backwards, walking football didn't appeal.

Michael Lynch
141 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:57:25
I don't want to appear negative, but there are a lot of people claiming that the fans have been proved right by Niasse scoring, Kenny playing quite well, Calvert-Lewin scoring two from down the middle, Lookman looking lively etc.

But the fact is, Sunderland are shit. We've learnt very little from last night except that we should be able to beat shit teams which, while useful to know, does not actually prove that Koeman has been picking the wrong team all along, or that if only he would pick the fans' favourites rather than his own, we would be challenging the top four.

Rob Dolby
142 Posted 21/09/2017 at 08:57:53
Thankful for the win, which I hope will stop the rot and start us on a run, though I also think that the win papers over massive cracks that will get exposed against better teams.

Still too many players playing out of position though Holgate was decent at Left back considering he is probably a centre half in the making.

We bought Sandro as a striker in the mold of a Defoe type goal poacher, playing him left-mid for most of the game wont do him any favours at 2-0 Koeman should have at least tried 2 up top with Calvert-Lewin and Sandro.

Vlasic had a decent 1st half then faded 2nd half, when he played against us for Split he played down the middle but we have bought him and played him on the wing whilst Lookman and Lennon are on the bench.

Besic is a liability and will be exposed even more against better players.

Klaassen will need a season to adapt before he can be judged properly at the moment he is trying but off the pace.

Kenny played right back and had a comfortable debut not sure he did enough to warrant a start on Saturday.

It will be interesting to see who Koeman picks for Saturday. Rooney, Schneiderlin and Sigurdsson will come in.

Ray Roche
143 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:00:36
For those like me who didn't see the game or any highlights the following may appeal. After Niasse's goal Koeman has a face like someone's farted in his car.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1H1gnVSsgdI

Stan Schofield
144 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:08:12
Marc@121: Koeman might be a tactical master and brilliant man-manager. But I wouldn't bet my shirt on it, given the evidence to date. Let's face it, he doesn't seem the sharpest tool in the box. But let's give him (a bit more) time.
Daniel Lim
145 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:08:13
Ray (#144), I didn't try the link you put there (not really a convenient time now). I watched 3 minutes on Everton app. Probably the same thing I saw on the app. Can't really tell you much as that's at least 5 seconds after the goal. Need someone at Goodison Park, like Peter @126, to tell us what really happened.
Sam Hoare
146 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:12:55
Some promising signs against an albeit very limited team. Biggest plusses for me were Calvert-Lewin, who really looks like he could possibly develop into a proper striker one day, and Vlasic who just looked a real footballer, sharp, smart, good touch, quick feet and brain; he looks like he may have hit the ground running in a way that Klaassen, Sandro and Sigurdsson have not.

I'm also increasingly concerned by Michael Keane, he lost Vaughan for their two best chances and looks some distance from a £30m defender so far, his positioning was very at fault for goals against Atalanta and Man Utd where he stationed himself in no-mans land leaving Mikhtaran and the Atalanta player whose name I forget all the space in the world.

Anyway, a good result.

Hard to call the team this weekend with so many players yet to impress this season. The only names i'd want for certain in the starting line-up would probably be Pickford, Gueye, Rooney and Calvert-Lewin. Good luck, Ron!

Raymond Fox
147 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:17:08
Phil (#111), bit of an over reaction what, and to use one of your terms a rubbish post.

Is there any need to use the words such as, idiot, clown, utter crap, minces about, garbage, rubbish.

Your entitled to your opinion, but we did score three goals, I'd hate to read your post the next time we lose.

John G Davies
148 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:17:12
Ray (#144),

It's a full 10 seconds after the goal goes in before camera goes in Koeman.

What are you looking for, a Klopp-like reaction?

Will Mabon
149 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:22:02
"Its a full 10 seconds after the goal goes in before camera goes in Koeman. What are you looking for, a Klopp-like reaction? "

Not Klopp, no, but Koeman is sure frugal with the happiness.

Ray Roche
150 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:22:53
Now, now, John, keep your hair on,

I don't expect (and can't stand!) the antics of Conte, Klopp etc., I merely pointed out the fact that his humour by pass operation has been an outstanding success.

I bet he was the only Blue in Goodison without some trace, some flicker of a smile on his grid even 10 seconds after Niasse's goal.

John G Davies
151 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:31:29
I'm trying my best to, Ray. It's like a fucking coconut nowadays.
James Marshall
152 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:56:24
Expecting a reaction from Koeman is going to leave you disappointed – he's Dutch, and therefore laced with certain amount of arrogance as we English see if.

Personally, I don't have a problem with that – you didn't see Brian Clough leaping about when his teams scored, nor Mourinho a lot of the time, but their reputations and record don't need to be mentioned.

Just because a manager doesn't leap around doesn't mean they aren't happy.

Tony Everan
153 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:56:49
The win was welcome. It is a tiny step in the right direction. However, in the scheme of things the Carabao Cup is a sideshow.

The real business is Saturday in the Premier League. The home match against Bournemouth is a must win game.

Losing or even drawing that match will put us in a much worse place than before Wednesday.

The team selection, tactics and performance, will be heavily scrutinised. Here's hoping we have turned a corner. Calvert-Lewin looked sharp with Niasse and Lookman worthy subs.

Rooney will start on Saturday, so what will the set up look like? Will it be effective? I am hoping for an attacking line up maybe Rooney Calvert-Lewin up top, and Vlasic out wide.

Davies must start, I think his reintroduction has been a catalyst for the modest improvement.

James Marshall
154 Posted 21/09/2017 at 09:56:58
Just to add to that – when Klopp jumps around and hugs his players, I cringe. I'd rather have a manager show no emotion than all that bollocks across the park.
James Marshall
155 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:00:17
Can I also mention that there is talk of Klaassen and Sandro needing a year to bed in to English football – then someone countered with by saying Sane and Jesus have been brilliant at Man City.

Yes they have, but it took them both a year to be any good. Sane was shit for a year, and Jesus took 9 months to get into the first team proper.

Franny Porter
156 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:01:58
Sam (#147) I agree with that about Keane, I think its a lack of confidence at the moment rather than a lack of talent.

If we had more cover, it would be worth taking him out of the firing line for a couple of weeks but unfortunately he's still the best of all our centre-backs right now.

Tony Everan
157 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:12:50
Keane would benefit from a more consistent and stable team selection. Obviously starting with the defence.

Chopping and changing the whole set up is doing his head in whilst he is trying to settle in.

I have confidence he will be a great signing and defender for us.

Tony Abrahams
158 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:18:57
Ray (#141), my round trip would only be 3 miles, but I still made the same decision as you mate. Sorry I never saw Jonjoe's full debut, but I honestly couldn't be bothered watching an Everton team, with absolutely no identity.

Made up for Niasse, simply because I remember what he said when Koeman first fucked him off. He said I'm sure the manager will pick me if he thinks I can do something for the team, because a managers job is to pick his best team.

He never said nothing else, (to the press) just put his head down and continued to go into work everyday. He's now proved himself good enough to be part of the managers plans, but can the manager prove he his good enough to be part of Everton's plans?

Andrew Keatley
159 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:22:51
James Marshall (#156) – That is not exactly true about Gabriel Jesus. He was officially signed in the summer of 2016, but only joined the Man City playing squad in January (I think it was part of the deal that he stayed with Palmeiras until January).

He very much hit the ground running, only to pick up an injury after about six games. And Sane also made significant contributions last season for Man City – in a much more competitive squad than we have.

Scott Hall
160 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:26:47
Ray Roche @ #144

Can I send you the invoice for a new keyboard? Your 'farted in his car' comment made me spit out my cup of tea all over it!

Hilarious and very true. I could not think of a better way to describe Ronald's face after Oumar bagged that one.

Tony Abrahams
161 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:36:02
Phil @111, I said I never went and because the game wasn't available on TV, then I really can't comment, but why no positivity mate? Idiots the lot of them, especially for seeing things the manager refuses to see?

We all know their is a good team ready to be picked from our squad, and if anyone expects a team to be flowing after 8 changes in its line-up, then I would have to beg to differ.

No identity? Without a fucking doubt, but loads of talent getting pulled from pillar to post. Don't call people 'idiots', mate, simply because the manager is not doing his job right now, even though I do understand your frustrations.

Brent Stephens
162 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:36:02
Peter (#126),

"Ronald Koeman was in my line of sight as Niasse scored, and he did celebrate by raising his arm, then applauding."

I thank you, sir. Brings balance to the thread.

Brian Harrison
163 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:38:51
With 10 minutes before kick off, I thought it was going to be a poor turnout; I haven't looked to see what the gate was but there was more there than I expected.

I thought the crowd were very patient and didn't groan when there was miss placed passes. I think they realized that getting on the backs of players very rarely helps. Let's hope the ones attending on Saturday show as much patience.

Calvert-Lewin was the stand out performer, and yes you have to factor in the lack of quality in the opposition, but every one think that Calvert-Lewin did was excellent. He has pace a good first touch and can score goals whats not to like. By the way take a bow Mr Koeman for playing the lad last season when most on here including me didn't think he was ready.

I also thought Tom Davies was very good, I cant believe he shows so much composure for such a young man. I think Tom deserves a start before some of our expensive buys in midfield.

I was glad to see Lookman come on I think this lad has something special about him. Just needs time on the pitch. I also thought Vlasic had a decent game, comfortable on the ball and always looking to get back and help his full back.

I think both players and fans were pleased to see Niasse get on and a great finish for our 3rd goal, from an exquisite pass from Tom Davies. Again, I think Koeman deserves great credit in bringing him on, he could have chose to ignore him as we were winning the game comfortably.

How many of us have publicly admitted we may have made a mistake in being to harsh with his initial judgement. I don't think he will start in the coming weeks, but how refreshing to see such a good attitude from a guy shunned and sent on loan. Yet no moaning or mopping about or calling the club and the manager. Instead, kept his head down and worked through the bad times. I wish him every success.

I was pleased to see Kenny get a run out again. We have to take into consideration the opposition but he did most things well, and will have done his chances no harm. For me, the only slight disappointments were Klaassen and Sandro, but they will both need this season to bed in. I thought Sandro was very industrious but for a striker seemed reluctant to get in the box. He seemed far more comfortable when linking with the midfield and shooting from outside the box.

Dave Wilson
164 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:51:56
I was right behind Koeman, Quite literally yards away.

Of course there were no cartwheels, it was a third goal in a comfortable 3-0 win. What do people expect? It was hardly the winner in a Champions League Final.

I did notice Niasse give him a long long look as the teams restarted again though. The goal obviously meant more to him than it did to the manager.

Mark Tanton
165 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:52:43
Brian maybe Sandro can finally fill our desperately understaffed Number 10 role!
Laurie Hartley
166 Posted 21/09/2017 at 10:54:52
Tony (#159) – I reckon Oumar Niasse has already answered you question.

For me Koeman has painted himself into a corner on this one. Will he have the nerve to risk giving the young man a crack and him scoring more goals for us?

I was also impressed by young Calvert-Lewin – he seems to be made of the right stuff.

Perhaps we have two striker options after all?

Steven Jones
167 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:02:09
How Young was that Everton side?

Given the all new and need to gel players and some have had several years development together. A big turn around from the squad 4 years ago.

Daniel Lawrence
168 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:08:19
I'm all for beating Koeman over the head, but come on, who on here thinks Niasse is the answer, or more to the point having watched him at Leicester away in their title season or him falling over a ball pre-season, wanted him to lead our attack?

He's getting a chance because our inept board and or recruitment team have failed to replace that gobshite Lukaku despite knowing for a minimum of 12 months that he'd be off.

In fact, a point raised previously; we shouldn't have been in a position where Lukaku was our only striker of note for at least the last 3 years in the first place!!

Derek Knox
169 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:10:45
It will be interesting to see how many of this team, who if I may add, have had more attacking ideas than of late, will make it into Saturday's line-up.

I wouldn't make wholesale changes, but then again that's my opinion, I do hope Niasse, at least makes the bench, that goal will have boosted his confidence, and he has something to prove.

There were some other encouraging performances, Vlasic for instance. Klaassen has a great football brain and vision, but the game seems to be too quick in a physical sense, and he seems to be easily dispossessed, and knocked over at times.

Hope also Kenny gets some more chances, while not being outstanding, he did enough to show, he is a better deputy for Seamus than Holgate, and definitely more so than the hapless Martina.

Calvert-Lewin has come of age at the right time too, and deserves to start on Saturday, but will he?

Steven Jones
170 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:16:56
Team for Saturday...

Given Calvert-Lewin was pulled off – surely to start against Bournemouth Wayne played well up front against Man Utd so will play. Rested players will come back including Pickford, Sigurdsson, Baines, Jagielka (in a three), Martina, Schneiderlin, Gana, will all play.

Positions up for grabs and in contention are: Sandro, Vlasic, Klaassen, Lookman and perhaps Mirallas.

Davies and the Niasse Monster on the bench with Besic, Holgate, and Kenny.

Jamie Evans
171 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:17:03
Have to agree with some of the later comments on this thread, about the genius tactical nous displayed by some of my fellow ToffeeWebbers before a ball was even kicked. Just a thought but maybe next time wait until the game actually kicks off to see who is playing right back?

Also, shame on you Ronald for not pounding your chest after each of our goals. Mr Klopp does this and he's the greatest manager in the whole wide world. Ever.

Roy Noon
173 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:26:23
Sunderland are rubbish but you can only beat the team that's in front of you. Calvert-Lewin is coming along nicely, starting to add a bit more physicality to his game, and reminds me of Graeme Sharp. I think that lad has a great future but he must lead the line.

I felt a bit sorry for Holgate, playing out of position and on the wrong side; like Williams he also seems to have the odd rick too. Kenny did okay on the other side, needs a few more games to be judged properly. Vlasic looked lively in the 1st half, ran out of steam though.

Davy Klaassen would probably do well in a decent side. He has a good football brain and thinks quickly – I think the speed and physicality of the English game may be too much for him. I'm afraid, in my humble opinion, don't think Sandro and Besic are good enough.

Great to see Oumar given a chance. He's no ballet dancer and looks like a stick insect on speed, but the lad scores goals and closes down defenders. He needs to be used by Koeman and let's be honest, aside from Calvert-Lewin, we have no-one else to lead the line... (Who mentioned Rooney?)

Derek Knox
174 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:26:35
Forgot to add, it goes to show how good Koeman is in assessing players, when he first came in, he was willing to pay £17M for Lamine Kone. Have seen the extended highlights of last night's game, and he was showing signs of a £17k player.
Jeff Spiers
175 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:48:21
Ordinary to Chelsea" – Takes me back. Nice one!

,ORDINARY TO CHELSEA. Takes me back. Nice one!


1

1,Turned on,BlueKfrog,1,11:38:15,,92.4.47.139,probation,18855,09/21/2017 11:38:15,Horan,probation,, 852707,35521,toffeeweb,21/09/2017,David McMullen,davidmcmullen2010@hotmail.co.uk,Conte apparently saying he'll play the kids – well I'd say it will give us a chance but we always always always blow it.

Cheers Ian (#8) but would their game on the Monday be moved? ,Conte apparently saying he'll play the kids well I'd say it will give us a chance but we always always always blow it. Cheers Ian (8) but would their game on the Monday be moved? ,,BlueKfrog,1,11:43:21,,81.134.193.196,ok,19984,09/21/2017 11:43:21,DavidMcmullen,reader,, 852708,35464,toffeeweb,21/09/2017,Derek Turnbull,DerekTurnbull66@googlemail.com,"Sorry, meant to type why just restrict ourselves a large single tier behind just the one goal. We should have this massive home end behind both goals.

Stan Schofield
176 Posted 21/09/2017 at 11:57:04
Jamie @172: I can't actually see the relevance of whether Koeman pounds his chest, grins or frowns on the touch line, and Klopp is surely of no interest.

Strikes me that the only matter of substance is whether Koeman has the tactical and man-management skills to get us playing decently.

Laurie Hartley
177 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:16:15
Daniel (#169) – I don't know if Niasse is the answer but I wouldn't mind finding out.

What I will say is he took that goal really well. If our former striker had scored it the media would be In raptures.

Why not give him a go when the need or opportunity arises?

Tim Sharpe
178 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:21:09
Have to love the stat that the Sunderland starting XI had more Everton appearances than the Everton starting XI.

Good result and performance, but we have to keep it going. The kids did well, keep em in, and Niasse was almost fated to score. Wish I had put money on it.

Anthony Hawkins
179 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:26:40
I'd love to know why Niasse has been outed from the team until recently. I get that bringing him back in was forced due to lack of recognized strikers but what caused the friction and exclusion?

He seems to have picked up a bit now, hasn't he?

John G Davies
180 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:27:12
Niasse has better movement than Lukaku, makes far more intelligent runs.
His finish was one of a natural goalscorer.
Anthony Hawkins
181 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:36:42
The challenge with the team that played last night is the opposition was Sunderland. They're not the greatest team and Everton is a different level. The games played have been poor but Premiership vs bottom of the Championship? You'd expect most if not all our players to flourish in the Championship.

I hope Calvert-Lewin, Niasse and Kenny can impose themselves on the Premier League in a similar manner.

Jumping topics to Rooney.... I've always believe Everton, Man Utd and England all performed better as a team unit without Rooney than with him. The challenge is that he's too good to leave out. He's definitely better as a team player now than he was but there's still that niggle.

Liam Reilly
182 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:38:36
I've a theory on Niasse.

He's bought for £13 Million (considered a huge outlay at the time) and he's not been able to live up to the price tag; trying too hard, finding it difficult to adapt to the pace, lack of confidence etc.

Nowadays no-one expects much from him; pressure is off and he's relaxed and playing for enjoyment as a wealthy man with no worries.

Might not be the answer to replacing Lukaku but could be a decent option to Calvert-Lewin and Sandro (who I still reckon will come good – just needs to relax a bit more).

Tony J Williams
183 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:46:34
It's hard to judge the game yesterday, as Sunderland are such a poor side, but as the saying goes, "you can only beat what's in front of you."

People judging Niasse on a handful of appearances when he was in a side bereft of any togetherness and going through the motions until the manager was binbagged, I was one of them too.

The fact remains is that he has some speed and can score when played in, he even scored against the "Sky favourites" when playing for relegation fodder Hull.

He is certainly no Lukaku, but he is obviously worthy of a run out because we haven't exactly been in a position of free scorers of late.

Calvert-Lewin is still green but hopefully Koeman will trust him more and get him up top instead of putting him on the wing or God forbid, put an actual striker in the striker's role????

Brent Stephens
184 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:47:29
Stan (#177), I think Jamie was making the same (in my view, valid) point as you.
Charlie Lloyd
185 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:48:38
We will not really know why Niasse was ousted from the squad. I did see his only 45 mins in pre-season 16-17 he was truly woeful but it wouldn't be fair to be judged on that alone.

He's now back, albeit because we never signed a striker and took his goal really well. Not sure if he's the answer as I expect a striker to come in January but he deserves his chance and has now become an almost cult figure.

Good on Niasse. Great attitude and I hope he can kick on from here.

Special mentions too for Calvert-Lewin, Kenny and Davies.

John Charles
186 Posted 21/09/2017 at 12:54:36
I don't think there will be many changes for Saturday from Man Utd team. Tom should replace Schneiderlin; Kenny did okay last night but didn't do enough to oust Martina; Jags must replace Williams

Against Bournemouth we must go for it – Lookman in for Sigurdsson:

Pickford
Martina Keane Jagielka Baines
Vlasic Gueye Davies Lookman
Rooney Calvert-Lewin

Steavey Buckley
187 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:02:38
Niasse has proved last night there is a need for a target man as a central focus for the attack in the same way Calvert-Lewin was before he came off.

But come Saturday, Koeman will go back to conservative worst and play players who did well in the past for their previous clubs but not for Everton.

John Roberts
188 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:07:28
I agree, Williams needs a break; I've watched him a fair bit and he keeps making mistakes. Always trying to nip in front of the attacker to get the ball and too often commits the foul or is left behind as well as other mistakes.

I would go with Jags but he too is off the pace ATM.. but he gets my nod... just.

Frank Wade
189 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:22:14
David Israel (#108),

As far as I am aware Besic was born in Berlin and played his early football there before moving to Hamburg and Ferencvaros, so you are still consistent to say the old Yugoslavia produced great players. I remember Red Star Belgrade giving a football lesson to our neighbours across the park back in 1973: Link

Jamie Evans
190 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:27:41
Brent @ 185... I was, thank you. I couldn't care less if Koeman has a face like a dropped pie, as long as we win. Last night was a good start.
Brent Stephens
191 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:34:02
Has Niasse achieved legend status with just one goal? And he hasn't even knocked anybody out!
Soren Moyer
192 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:36:05
This game means nothing! Not even as a confidence booster! The real test starts on Saturday.
Steavey Buckley
193 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:47:25
Anthony (#182),

Rooney has lost the ability to link the attack with the midfield through a loss of pace. Last night's showing proved that Everton do not need to start with him – maybe just later in the game as a sub.

Gary Edwards
194 Posted 21/09/2017 at 13:58:58
Granted we played a poor Sunderland team but can a case be made that we played better and won because we had a greater number of players on the pitch who regularly play together for the U23s? And consequently they play a specific system, a particular style that they all know what they're meant to be doing, ie, they're coached well?

Therefore do we promote more of the U23s into the 1st team ? replace Koeman with Unsworth? Or promote Unsworth over Koeman whereupon he coaches Koeman how to play hi-energy, pacy, progressive football in a fluid system. Sandro may benefit from time with the U23s.

To those that doubt (the U23s) – get your arse to a game or two and then offer properly informed comments. When Leicester's U23s beat our lads, they did so due mainly to a lad with a distinct hairdo. Yes, the same lad that shut down Liverpool on Tuesday night. The same lad that Beni ran past with ease 3 or 4 times.

Really happy for Niasse. He's not Rom, he's not Drogba but he was / is very popular with the U23s and they play a game that suits him, knock it down the channels, give him the chance to use his pace and strength and offer overlapping support on the wings. His presence in the box also gives Sigurdsson someone to cross to.

Final offering: get Robinson back from Bolton, it's not doing him any good there, we need his explosive pace at left-back / left wing-back. The right side axis of Jonjoe Kenny and Gethin Jones looks special enough to try in the first team. Consider Feeney at centre-back or get Pennington back.

Have faith.

Thomas Lennon
195 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:02:11
Could it be that Niasse has actually developed his game since last year? As many of the squad are showing, the first season in the Premier League can be a difficult one in which to show your best.

Calvert-Lewin – I am willing to contend that he will match Lukaku for goalscoring and beat his assists this season (already achieved) compared with Lukaku at the same age (16 in all competitions, 1 assist in 33 appearances), assuming he is played regularly (currently 3 goals in 8 appearances with 2 assists).

Dave Abrahams
196 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:07:41
Brian (#164), I was surprised how many came into the ground in the five minutes before kick off, the crowd was just short of 24,000.

Brian, I agree with your assessments of the players last night, I think Sandro is trying to hard to please at the moment, but most of the crowd, including me, seemed please with the effort he is putting in, I am confident there is a very good player in Sandro.

Mike Berry
197 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:10:21
I think Ronald has got to be very careful how he handles Niasse, as the player's conduct has been exemplary and he has now scored a great goal, thoroughly deserves his status as being "loved by the fans".

If Ronald does not play him and our poor from in the Prem continues, I cant see any love for Ronald whatsoever. Niasse could see himself employed at EFC and taking over Ronald's locker.

Steavey Buckley
198 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:19:43
Could Unsworth be the new Zidane of Everton.
James Hughes
199 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:34:14
Brent (#192),

Legend status is within his grasp, how many other players have sat with our fans at an away game? Spoke volumes for me, seems he cares enough to watch us in his spare time.

Kim Vivian
200 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:39:27
That was a nice change to the norm last night. I was made up for Calvert-Lewin and especially Oumar but I think it will make little difference unfortunately to Ron's treatment of him.

Saturday is going to be mighty interesting seeing who, and how, Koeman will play after that. I haven't read through this thread but my own take on Ron's dilemmas as follows. Martina or Kenny?

I think Martina has surprised most of us (definitely me) but despite good showings for the U23s may still be Ron's second choice. Although having said that, if he wants to try him out in a tougher game, Bournemouth may be the perfect trial. So I see Kenny maybe getting a chance.

Vlasic and Tom Davies seem to have done enough to oust Sigurdsson and Schneiderlin for this game, but will Ron be prepared to bench his faves? I hope so. Gana will play and Klaassen. Rooney will be in there and Calvert-Lewin has got to be nailed on, so no start for Mola, Niasse, Sigurdsson and Schneiderlin.

This is a must-win weekend and I'm looking forward to watching again after only OS commentary last night, and by the way, for any of you guys on the forum last night – apologies for the bum steer to the YouTube link. Got myself quite excited there, and then there was fuck all.

Stan Schofield
201 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:45:24
Brent @185: Yes, he was in part, but I was simply diverting away from the subjects of Jamie's criticism (fellow supporters) onto the more substantial issues.
Tony Abrahams
203 Posted 21/09/2017 at 14:58:50
It was only Sunderland, Laurie, but I think Niasse proved that he deserved a go after his loan spell with Hull last season, when he scored some goals against good opposition.

My only question was is Koeman good enough? But I like a man who admits he's wrong, especially when he proves this with his actions rather than just words.

Brian @164, great post mate, because – although I never saw the game – I agree with your very sensible words, with regards the players, and it also proves that not everyone is an idiot!

Danny Halsall
204 Posted 21/09/2017 at 15:04:07
Tony Hill (#203) – I have read that Onyekuru is playing really well, has scored 3 in 6 games and has been Anderlecht's best player, even though they are struggling and are currently 9th in the Belgian League.
Barry Pearce
205 Posted 21/09/2017 at 15:10:51
Sandro will come good, there's definitely a player there. Lookman needs to used a bit more, he's got that wow factor about him.

Calvert-Lewin has proved he's capable as long has he's played in his proper position. Kenny deserves to stay in the side.

Brent Stephens
206 Posted 21/09/2017 at 15:25:46
Stan (#202) – okay, that's me being dumb!
James Macdonald
207 Posted 21/09/2017 at 15:38:20
I think the formation and some of the personnel should be the basis of how we set up at home against lesser sides. 4 at the back with Kenny at right-back. Then Gueye and Davies together with Davies offering far more going forwards than Schneiderlin.

I thought Klaassen was useful last night and I think we can only afford 1 slow number 10 in the side. With Ross it could be two as he has speed so could operate wide.

Rooney has done well this season but ultimately when he plays with Sigurdsson we try to play through Rooney too much and we are slow as a result. So I really think we can only afford one of those two in the side and I think Sigurdsson's first-touch quicker balls lend more to the more up tempo play we need.

Schneiderlin can then compete with Gueye and perhaps come in when we need to be more defensive minded and Klaassen can compete with Davies although my feeling he may prove eventually to be the best no 10 at the club.

We then need to have 3 players with pace in the other forward positions at all times unless it's a situation where we need more possession and then Rooney can take up an advanced role.

Alan Bodell
208 Posted 21/09/2017 at 15:56:33
Considering it takes many players at least one season to get up to speed in the Premier League, and none of Niasse, Klaassen, Sandro or Lookman have been given that, coupled with Coleman and Bolasie to return – along with the fact we've played three of the top five away already, I just think it's far too early to be getting despondent.

If we start losing games against the likes of Bournemouth, Burnley etc, then I'll reach for my Leonard Cohen albums... but not just yet.

Steve Croston
209 Posted 21/09/2017 at 16:24:41
I couldn't see the game last night, but have just watched the highlights on YouTube... did you see Koeman's face after Niasse's brilliantly taken goal? What a miserable git he is. I know who the fans like more out of the two, and it ain't our phlegmatic, clog-wearing manager.

I'm more convinced than ever that Koeman will be a failure... With regards to his treatment of Niasse, if he can't see he could have possibly been wrong or even come close to admitting it with a well-deserved smile, then he's more doomed than ever in my opinion.

Up the Blues!!!

Daniel Lim
210 Posted 21/09/2017 at 16:51:49
Alan (#209), quite interested to know what you mean by 3 of the top 5. Who have you omitted from that group? The RS?
Alan Bodell
211 Posted 21/09/2017 at 17:20:29
Daniel, you nailed it in 1 but no prizes at it was too obvious but i'd just love to see Niasse come good and prove himself worth of the fee he never asked to be paid for him.
James Marshall
212 Posted 21/09/2017 at 17:26:14
Niasse is never going to be a polished looking player – he's one of those ungainly looking fellows, but appears to be a fairly decent finisher despite looking like a pub player in some respects.

We all love an underdog it's one of those odd traits of being an Evertonian, and one of those traits that possibly holds us back as a club – we're a sentimental bunch once you scratch the surface, much like our dear leader.

Aside from that I think we can all agree that Niasse is likely not the answer, but he is worth a punt given the circumstances - he makes some good runs, and movement up front is something we're lacking, Calvert-LewinDCL aside. Who knows, with him making a few runs, not only is he likely to get a few chances, but also likely to open things up for our 4 Number 10s sitting just behind him.

John G Davies
213 Posted 21/09/2017 at 17:33:40
Really good to see the investment in and development of, young players taking place at Goodison. Kenny, Calvert-Lewin, Holgate, Lookman, Onyekuru, Sandro, etc etc.

These will all develop into good Premier League players, IMO.

John Pierce
214 Posted 21/09/2017 at 17:40:39
Niasse was the baby thrown out with the Martinez bath water.

Remember, things had already gone south for Martinez and less remember the thread is rightly suggesting time for both Klaassen and Sandro so let's think that Niasse also got that time to adapt.

Yes, circumstances were drastically different. He is no long term answer but, given the hole we have dug for ourselves, then his physical presence and speed are actually ingredients we need in this side right now.

Off the bench he is worth a look at. I do wonder if Ronald was nudged, a'hem, asked to ensure Niasse was included. Yes I'm mischief making but maybe.

Further to my original post, Everton were not good last night, but the opposition gave us some wriggle room to find out a few things, it shouldn't of taken Koeman this long but it has, a shame.

Just play players in a system which fits their natural positions. Until you have a team that feels comfortable in its own skin them you ask for trouble by playing people out of position. A repetitive theme under Koeman.

Had to feel for Holgate too, it does nothing for him and actually Garbutt should have played, regardless. It's inept to do that to a player, let alone one so callow but with huge potential. Not character building but criminal.

So Bournemouth, down on their luck too, but an open side. If we play an open game we will win. Last year was no exception. This game was pointedly the one were many failed to see how bad we were under Koeman, blinded by the plethora of goals. We were gifted so many of our goals that day and destroyed by them for 20 minutes after half time it was embarrassing.

If he goes back to a conservative approach, with two defensive midfielders and tries to play Rooney and Sigurdsson together, it is IMO likely to be a difficult afternoon.

Tick tock, Ronald.

Lev Vellene
215 Posted 21/09/2017 at 17:51:46
I really don't understand why people are so harsh with Klaassen. Yes, he needs to get used to the pace and physicality of the Premier League game, but once we get the rest of the team to work, we'll really get to see what he offers!

He seems to excel in-amongst the opposition, providing flicks and creating diversions. And he's had some nice runs where he could have picked up deflections in front of the goal (that never happened, sadly...).

He was sort-of slated for the Sunderland game, but by being in the right place, he had the last touch for Calvert-Lewin to work off of to get the first goal. And he had the cross that Calvert-Lewin headed into the post.

I've been watching most of the games except the Man Utd game, and obviously only the 20 minutes highlights for the Sunderland game, but Klaassen seems to have so much to offer in the crowded spaces, once the rest of the team starts looking for those opportunities.

I admit he could, and should, have a lot more to offer in the middle of the field. But so should the rest of the sorry lot!

I still can't help to admire how he would be so very much of use to us in that very foreign area: The inside of the opposition's box... :)

Tony Abrahams
216 Posted 21/09/2017 at 18:11:46
Lee, just because you don't touch the ball that often doesn't mean that you're not involved. Klaassen was always going to struggle, especially coming into a team with so many new faces, but it's obvious to see he's very much a players player?

I don't know if he's going to make it at Everton because I'm not sure if the man who brought him to the club, will be here for that long, but if Klaassen is given time to adapt, and comes to terms with the very physical nature of the Premier League, then I'm sure we will eventually see a very good footballer. I hope so anyway!

John G Davies
217 Posted 21/09/2017 at 18:25:18
The more games they play, the better they will be, Tony.

None have them have played in a league with the pace of the Premier League.

Peter Lee
219 Posted 21/09/2017 at 18:36:33
Klaasen is so lightweight. Look at Tom Davies who had an excellent game at Old Trafford and stood up to Matic and last night he continued in that vein.

Klaassen is nowhere near that level.

James Marshall
220 Posted 21/09/2017 at 18:37:55
I quite like Klaassen – yes, he's a bit lightweight, but he looks classy from what I've seen of him. A bit of a water carrier (which is no bad thing), he keeps things ticking over, sprays some decent passes about, has a nice touch, and looks like he's a bit of a thinking man's footballer. Whatever that means.
Darren Hind
221 Posted 21/09/2017 at 18:45:11
Comedy moments apart, that goal last night needed to be scored. Niasse needed to show he wasn't the complete waste some have portrayed him to be, and after what he said, Koeman must have known he was going to get a bit of stick if he did score. He'll probably be relieved to get that particular monkey off his back.

It's done now. I can't really see Niasse becoming a goal machine – if he does, we'll all look mugs – but It's nice to know he does have a goal in him and offers another possible weapon to our armoury.

Colin Metcalfe
222 Posted 21/09/2017 at 18:49:11
I said this on another thread, we have to give Klaassen time to adjust. Just look at Pedro for Chelsea considered a flop in his first season with rumors of him pining for a move back to Barcelona and now an integral part of the Chelsea set up.

I have seen enough of Klaassen to be hopeful he can come good. I like the way he moves the ball quickly and often looks for quick one-twos round the box; however, we may not see the best of him until next season.

Jay Wood
223 Posted 21/09/2017 at 18:57:41
I'm on my extended jollies at the moment and so, for the first time in nigh on 30 years, I attended a game at Goodison Park last night. Call me an idiot if you like for taking some positivism out of the game (as a cheerful poster above condemns any one for such an attitude), but there was plenty to enjoy.

We were a group of 6 – 2 family members, 2 mates from way back, meself and the Brazilian missus (who can now claim a 100% win record for watching the Blues).

She loved the pre-match ritual . the walk up . touching the Dixie statue for luck. Goodison under lights. Even the Bizzies on their mounted horses. I'll speak later about her ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi' moment when Niasse came on but, whilst a keen follower of Brazilian football, she knows little or nothing about the Blues apart from how they can transform her hubby into a screaming, cussing Dervish or singing, smiling, laughing, hugely content being, all from watching a grainy stream on a dodgy internet connection once or twice a week.

She also recognizes Wayne Rooney. Within 10 minutes last night, she got it bang on the money: the outstanding player on the park was Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Now Sunderland offered nothing. Even at 1-0 and 2-0 down they were reluctant to break their deep-lying defensive ranks. But they still had to be beaten. And they were.

My assessment was:

Stekelenburg. Nowt to do, but even so there were a couple of nervous moments when he was not decisive enough as his centre-backs ran back towards him to balls played over the top. A half decent keeper would have taken better control of both situations, rather than forcing the centre-backs to make hurried clearances as resulted.

Kenny. Had a solid game. I was confused by what the hell earlier posters were on about, claiming he was being played out of position. He was in his default right -position and whilst not rampaging forward as much as we know he is capable of, he was solid in defence and consistently did something I wish more Everton players would do: hit crisp firm accurate ground passes to the receiver, rather than gently roll a ball into them. It potentially reduces reaction time by the defending team and can pull the opposition out of position more. He'll come good.

Keane. In his early games for us he looked like a consistent 7-8 out of 10 player. In recent games, he's performed more like a 4-5 out of 10 player. He was probably about a 6 last night. James Vaughan tested him last night. Needs to get back to the impressive form he first showed us.

Williams. Solid game. With Sunderland playing so deep, he often carried the ball out from defence and used it well, particularly with Holgate down the left flank. He was involved in one of the best moves on the night, which the replays don't pick up on very well, his tremendous crossfield pass to Jonjoe Kenny. What you don't see bottom of the image is how much in harmony Williams and Kenny were. Kenny ignites the burners from the half way line. Williams sees his intent and delivers a great ball to where Kenny is headed. Kenny controls the ball and interchanges nicely with Vlasic before crossing to Lookman who was twice thwarted by the keeper.

Holgate. A really good game in an unaccustomed left-back position. Defensively solid. Very confident. Got forward effectively and contributed to the first goal.

Besic. I will be amazed if he continues to see much Premier League action. Mo does some good things. That does not compensate for the number of times he coughs up cheap possession in dangerous positions. Against better opposition last night, such errors would have cost us goals, I have no doubts.

Klaassen. Played a part in the first goal and had one or two good moments, but overall – especially against opposition such as Sunderland – we should be expecting more. There is an intelligent footballer in there. He is not showing it sufficiently over 90 minutes for us yet.

Davies. Very good. He took the lead in midfield. Playing centrally and always looking to receive the ball and be involved. Contributed to two of the goals. He should certainly be starting ahead of Klaassen and Besic on last night's showing.

Vlasic. Very impressive. Combined well with Kenny down the right. Technically very sound and very alert to what was happening around him. Encouraging.

Sandro. Similar to Klaassen, there is a footballer in there but he has to offer more. He's game and a worker, that is evident. He drew warm applause for chasing back to deep in our left back position to retrieve the ball for the team. More to come.

Calvert-Lewin. Outstanding. He still has his critics on TW but if he continues to improve on last season as he has done this (in a struggling side) and performs as well as he did last night, we have a real talent on our books.

His ability to receive and retain the ball, no matter how it is delivered to him, was Sharpesque. He has quick and sure feet and can go through the gears. His first goal (in which a number of players contributed to its creation) showed a combination of good tight control, strength, composure, awareness (to open up his body to create a better angle to calmly curl the ball home as he did) and no little skill.

His second goal owes a lot to Tom Davies's quick first time pass from his own half to Sandro, who in turn fed Calvert-Lewin with a good through ball before another clean, calm finish.

One of the best moves of the game almost gave Calvert-Lewin the perfect hatrick, but his header rattled back off the upright.

Of course, he got a great reception when going off for Niasse, but I have to say the biggest cheer of the night was for Oumar's appearance. This was the moment my missus offered up her Obi-wan Kenobe moment. My Amazonian Shaman pronounced: “The force is strong in this one. He is going to make you all happy tonight.”

The others laughed, but she has been right too many times from my experience not to dismiss it out of hand. She was proven right.

Before his goal there were a couple of times he looked like an excited puppy chasing after a bouncing ball, before landing sprayed legged on the floor, but the icing on the cake was his goal, nicely set up by Davies. Oumar created the chance himself by the way he turned goalwards as he took the ball on his chest to offer a better shooting angle, but then was astute enough to shoot with the outside of the right boot to leave the keeper no chance.

And unlike another poster on this thread, all the heads I could see near me were turned towards Oumar's goal celebration with all his obviously delighted team mates. Everyone around me were saying what a cracking goal it was and how pleased they were for him. I didn't hear one reference to Koeman in the immediate aftermath of our third goal. Koeman was certainly fulsome in his praise of the goal in the copy of the Echo I picked up this morning.

Finally, the Goodison crowd. I was pleasantly surprised how full the stadium looked. I was also pleased that a Goodison tradition was maintained. Both ex-Blues Jack Rodwell and James Vaughan received warm receptions when substituted. There was widespread delight for Niasse on scoring his goal (although the four regulars we were with were spooked by my missus' earlier call!).

Otherwise, it was an extremely subdued Goodison. There was only one short burst of ‘Everton-Everton-Everton' after the second goal. Apart from that, nowt! Maybe the recent poor form, the poor opposition and the fact we always had the game in hand influenced how tepid the crowd was, but bear pit it wasn't.

So in closing, this ‘idiot' thoroughly enjoyed his evening and saw lots of positives to take from the game, all the more so as in response to questions from my missus about individual players, I found myself saying a lot, “he's just 19 … 20 … 21.”

And beyond the actual footy, I have to say the city is looking great these days.

Loved it!

Paul Swan
224 Posted 21/09/2017 at 19:02:11
Absolutely made up for Niasse. Took his goal well and also made some intelligent runs last night. Look he is not the most classy player to have been at the club but you can't fault his attitude. He is something different which may just shake things up a bit when needed.

Bit of humble pie for the manager but also some of the sheepish looks on a few of the supporters around me in the ground last night who thought it was highly amusing that the lad was getting a chance were priceless. They seemed really disappointed that he failed to fall flat on his face.

The other thing I'm sick of hearing is that Klaassen has a footballer's brain – the problem here is that this seems to be coupled with dart-players legs. He was very poor against low quality opposition – again

Lev Vellene
226 Posted 21/09/2017 at 19:16:15
Jay, you're a bleedin' Romantic!

I'm happy your lady liked it, and she only channeled the average Evertonian's love of the underdog for Niasse. I'd stay impressed with her if I were you! But get her to stop hexing Rooney! ;D

Jack Convery
227 Posted 21/09/2017 at 19:16:53
A win is a win. A clean sheet is a clean sheet. Three goals from the forwards. COYBs.
Brent Stephens
228 Posted 21/09/2017 at 19:17:21
Jay (#224) – a long post that I thought I'd swerve but then read it to the end. Bring the missus next time as well! She sounds like an "idiot" like you!!
David Hughes
229 Posted 21/09/2017 at 19:22:42
Klaassen is a no-no for me; I think he will be very good but for now it's a no. Made up for Jonjoe & Calvert-Lewin done really well – could this be the start of deadly Dom! Anyway I would love to see the starting line up for Saturday of:

Pickford
Kenny, Keane, Holgate, Baines
Gueye, Rooney
Vlasic, Calvert-Lewin, Lookman

Rooney with these kids would be deadly and they have the legs to help him out. But hey Koeman will never start all three up top, no balls! Thing is, use these kids now. They need it, so do we.

Dermot Byrne
230 Posted 21/09/2017 at 19:23:10
Jay – one of the best posts for a while. Assessment of players interesting and good.

As for Fortress Goodison, I think all grounds are the same now. Fan demographics have changed and they demand to be excited (and see themselves in a media mirror) before singing.

In earlier years, fans tried to intimidate the opposition and sang because that was the tradition. Those days are fading away, I suspect.

Many crowds now split now between grumbling old men who are not on TW(!) and the rest taking selfies! (And the occasional visiting oracle!)

But it is so nice to have a breath of fresh air here and read of a nice time.

Darren Hind
235 Posted 21/09/2017 at 20:09:46
I'm astonished at the way people are rounding on pre-match comments of a few posters about selections and positions.

The posts are still up there, for anybody to view. reading them, many of the comments concerning selections have question marks next to them.

The reason is simple if you read the posts. These guys did not have access to the usual links to watch the match, by all accounts Radio Merseyside was hit and miss and they were completely guessing at the formation... hardly hilarious... or even surprising. What was certain. is that somebody was going to play out of position... they were just having to guess which one.

With regards to the Koeman reaction to Niasse's goal. I don't think any of the several people who saw the incident at the game or on TV mentioned Klopp or Conte. But the clear impression of all (bar one) was that Koeman did indeed have a face like a smacked arse.

I was surrounded by the usual arl arse battle hardened crew and, when Niasse was warming up there was almost a chorus as people turned to each other and laughed "It's a fuckin nap he will score".Don't think any of them was spooked when he did.

Well experienced in the mysterious ways the gods of football can serve up irony and surprise when you most expect it are these veteran match goers.

Of course nothing would have been said if they were wrong.

John G Davies
236 Posted 21/09/2017 at 20:49:14
http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ronald-koeman-hails-perfect-goal-13651827

Seems quite pleased our Ron.

Darren Hind
237 Posted 21/09/2017 at 20:57:54
I guess people will and have made their own minds up about which reaction they buy .

The natural reaction immediately after the goal... or the one where he had time to think about what his response would be to the inevitable question.

They both made me laugh. I'm not bothered either way.


Lev Vellene
238 Posted 21/09/2017 at 20:59:37
Dermot (#231),

One of my worries, very much!

What is the point of Dan Meis making any new ground 'intimidating' if the EFC supporters will sit there all silent?

Even if the current team may be shite, tell those visitors they'll have to work for it!

Will Mabon
239 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:04:34
From our Ron:

“Everyone knows it was a difficult situation for him..."

Yes, they do. You made sure of it.


“You pick the player up and you put the player in the team..."

I see. You picked him up. I thought you knocked him down, but what do I know?

Have to admit it, the finer points of the tough love technique are totally lost on me. I was impatient and thought it was bullshit, but Ron understands the long game of improvement by public negativity.

Coming next: Barkley returns, on absolute fire.

John G Davies
240 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:04:36
Too cool, calm and collected to jump around like a fool.
Better to keep a cool head and give the praise afterwards.
Gordon Roberts
241 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:13:08
Jay (#224).

Great reading, how refreshing to read a post/article that doesn't close with a negative comment designed for us all to hang on to.

Dave Abrahams
242 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:13:29
I was made up for Niasse last night and pleased that he will be a welcome addition to the squad until Christmas and maybe beyond, he can bring some height and strength to the team especially coming on has he did last night.

Does Koeman get excited at any of our goals? I'm usually too busy cheering them to notice.

John G Davies
243 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:22:48
Me too, Dave, I still jump up like a kid to celebrate.

Difficult to see if Koeman does or doesn't from my seat, Dave.

I suppose it depends on where you sit in the ground if you have a view of him sitting in the dugout.

Tony Abrahams
244 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:23:35
Coming next: Barkley returns on absolute fire, after he turned down a new contract with his boyhood team because he fuckin hated the manager!
Eric Paul
245 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:24:17
I thought Calvert-Lewin was outstanding last night but, for me, Tom Davies was Man of the Match, the way he controlled the game and was always available – a future superstar for sure.
Dave Abrahams
246 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:24:48
Jay (#224), glad you and your company were able to see a victory at least, we were not great but a victory was needed.

We didn't prove anything by beating a poor Sunderland team but it's small steps at a time now and this very tiny step might lead to some confidence and a few more wins and points in the next couple of games.

I wondered why you hadn't been posting recently. I didn't realise you were travelling around, enjoy the rest of your holiday and I hope you see another win on Saturday if you are coming. Best wishes to you and your wife.

Tony Abrahams
247 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:26:47
A good manager should be calming everyone down, and telling them to go and get the fucking ball back, once the opposition kick off?
Paul A Smith
248 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:36:05
Well-needed win to gain some confidence hopefully. We can beat a surely weakened Chelsea?

Well done to Niasse and Calvert-Lewin of course.

Dave Abrahams
249 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:36:06
John G (#244), I sit near the half way line in The Upper Bullens so I have a decent view of the bench but I jumped up and was cheering like you, seven or eight going on seventy odd, it was only when I had sat down that I glanced across the pitch but never noticed what Koeman was doing.

Being honest, he must have been impressed, it really was a very well taken goal and he has said that after the match.

It will not do Koeman any harm if he continues to play Niasse and he scores a few more, the goals are welcome from anyone at the moment; hope I'm doing a demented dance two or three times on Saturday.

James Marshall
250 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:42:18
Why on earth does anyone give a damn what the manager does when we score a goal?

He could do cartwheels, or sit on his hands for all I care. Give me strength!

John G Davies
251 Posted 21/09/2017 at 21:47:22
I have heard you mention that you sit on the half-way line in the Upper Bullens, Dave, best seats in the ground.

Niasse's goal was a top finish. I posted three or four weeks ago, I didn't think he was as bad as he was made out. Very good movement and runs.

Darren Hind
252 Posted 21/09/2017 at 22:07:30
James Marshall

I don't think anybody cares what a manager does when his team score...normally.

But these are not normal circumstances. Seldom, if ever, has a manager so publically humiliated a player the way Koeman did Niasse. These were exceptional circumstances and people who hated the way Koeman behaved, were taking extra pleasure from this goal.

It was originally a simple observation, one which several people on here clearly made, but it has clearly gone down particularly badly with a certain group... which is a little bizarre when you take into consideration that some of them haven't even seen the incident.

I guess it will be yesterday's story this time tomorrow.

John G Davies
253 Posted 21/09/2017 at 22:15:27
Where do you sit in the ground, Darren?
Dave Abrahams
254 Posted 21/09/2017 at 22:17:46
John G (#252), yes John best speck in the ground for me, and I've tried them all over the years.
Tony Abrahams
255 Posted 21/09/2017 at 22:25:53
He sits behind Koeman's back, John G, probably made up that he doesn't have to look at his face!
John G Davies
256 Posted 21/09/2017 at 22:32:02
The main man in the Main Stand. 😁
Nigel Munford
257 Posted 21/09/2017 at 22:44:41
James, we need to see passion from our manager. What we saw last night was apathy.
Nigel Munford
258 Posted 21/09/2017 at 22:48:36
If he knows he was wrong, he should come right out and say it.
Neil Copeland
259 Posted 21/09/2017 at 00:05:43
Oumar Niasse,
Oumar Niasse,
Give him a locker,
Oumar Niasse!
Nicholas Ryan
260 Posted 22/09/2017 at 01:32:59
Jay (#224); I wouldn't say your post is long; but I'll reply in mid-December, when I've finished readingit!
John G Davies
261 Posted 22/09/2017 at 07:31:33
All nonsense about Koeman not reacting to Niasse goal. I sit 80 yards away from the dugout and clearly saw him smile and wink at Niasse.
James McPherson
262 Posted 22/09/2017 at 08:05:38
It is nonsense and it could be argued that anybody who chose to look at Koeman instead of celebrating a terrific finish has their priorities wrong.

On a more constructive note, good article on BBC football today regarding EFC and our present situation.

Raymond Fox
263 Posted 22/09/2017 at 08:12:54
Yes James, and it looks like he's read this forum and listed all the complaints in his article.
Peter Mills
264 Posted 22/09/2017 at 08:19:25
Wish I'd never said anything now.

I pledge henceforth never to be vexed by the dream of apparent appearances, and to be free of all illusions.

Up the Toffees.

James McPherson
265 Posted 22/09/2017 at 08:20:32
Yes, Raymond Fox - balanced with the positives and why he needs, and will be given, time. Not forever, but time.
James Marshall
266 Posted 22/09/2017 at 08:40:34
If you want to see passion from our manager, you're barking up the wrong tree with Koeman! I'd rather he was dour than leaping around like that twat in the specs over the road – what an embarrassment that would be!
Phil Walling
267 Posted 22/09/2017 at 08:57:32
Amazing what a win against a really poxy side can do for the vox pop. Koeman is now restored from a fecking disaster to a man who needs time for his very dubious signings 'to settle in'!

More heartache ahead, I suspect!

Stan Schofield
269 Posted 22/09/2017 at 13:14:27
Jay @224: Nice post. And the wisdom of a good woman.
Darren Hind
270 Posted 22/09/2017 at 18:22:33
Wow, John G...

20 posts mainly contesting incidents you didn't witness in a match you didn't attend.

Some going that like.

John G Davies
271 Posted 22/09/2017 at 18:28:17
I'm flattered you took the time to count.

Darren Hind
272 Posted 23/09/2017 at 09:03:22
I didn't count them John, I guessed... but I am genuinely impressed.

I make no secret of the fact that I think our club will be better off without Koeman and for that reason, I'm desperate to see him gone.

God knows, he's an easy target lately . .but even when the stakes are so high and it means so much. There has to be a place for loyalty and faith in an individual, even in the cut throat world of the Premier League and even if it is sometimes blind.

I once stated in an alehouse full of Evertonians, that signing Tim Cahill was a huge step backwards for Everton, I said it with such a conviction that friends and family did not forget it and still remind me to this day. The ironic thing is, I was driving the bus and I was the only sober person in the place.

Like everyone else on here I've been wrong hundreds of times. but I don't think I will be this time. I would honestly be delighted if it was wrong about Koeman not being for changing and the faith of those supporting him is rewarded. Just like I was when Cahill made a mug of me

Anyway, it's show time again in about 6 hours and I will try to get a bit of kip. Hopefully by the time I have woken up George's will have posted his match day soul soother before I whizz round the betting shop to exercise a little blind faith of my own.

Tony Abrahams
273 Posted 23/09/2017 at 09:32:55
Try and have a bevy before you put your bet on, Darren, because it's obvious being sober clouds yer judgement mate!

Only Everton manager that I really disliked was Walter Smith, he did to me what Koeman has done to you, Darren, he stopped me from traveling to away games to watch my team, which incidentally is something that Koeman has also done to me.

I'm older now; priorities change but the fact that I couldn't be bothered going to Goodison the other night was only down to two facts. Everton's tactics are all over the place, and Koeman's complete lack of a style, is completely fucking boring to watch, and whilst Walter disappointed, then Ronald just exasperates!

I know football's changed, but please just give us our Everton back... please!

John G Davies
274 Posted 23/09/2017 at 12:23:04
Thank you, Darren.

I too am impressed with your change of heart. It was only yesterday you posted you don't take any notice of my posts.

Get on Man City to score four or more.

Darren Hind
275 Posted 24/09/2017 at 06:31:35
I don't, but 20 odd posts takes a lot of ignoring.

I'll be watching out for your tips in future though.

John G Davies
276 Posted 24/09/2017 at 07:48:19
I know you wont take any notice of this. 😁

If you can count 20 odd posts of mine on this thread, you need to change your abacus.


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