Everton finally prevail in classic FA Cup ding-dong goalfest

Surprised if he plays Godfrey at RB.

4 at the back
Diamond in midfield
Split strikers

It'll be what it'll be and then change. A few times

Davies & Doucoure with Iwobi, Sigurdsson (no 10) & Richarlison behind DCL.

Yeah that bench doesn't offer much if we need to chase a goal. We'll just have to make sure we score a good half a dozen or so early on to kill the game.

Pretty weak bench there... but standard enough starting line up.

Start like did last week and don't let the heads drop.

This is winnable and with the passion and guts shown at Leeds and Old Trafford, Everton can be in the draw for the quarter finals.

Let's see the whole team start with energy and belief and to stick the chances away, when they happen.

Godfrey showing that he has a good shot on him too!

One slight variation for me second half.
Leave Sigurdsson out of the two man press. Needs to make the extra man in center midfield.
Getting overun in there

That could have been a great half for Everton but for a terrible lapse by Mina at the death.

Dozing in the opening two minutes. Spurs dominating initially, then gradually we got a foothold in the game with Spurs still looking good on the counter.

Good chasing down by Siggy initially, helped by Doucoure on the first. Good lay in to Dom by Siggy. WHACK! Pick that out.

More good collective chasing on the second. Good flick on by Digne. Excellent back heel by Dom. Richy at his best on the finish.

And if the Gomes and Davies penalties we conceded v Newcastle and Arsenal are pens, so is our 3rd. Again, good lay in to Dom by Siggy whose run brought the pen.

So pissed at Mina though. The game was virtually won at 3-1. Now, it's still game on.

Massive 53 minutes now, character and guts needed.

More shite defending from us...we have 3 CBs on the pitch and can't win a header in our own box.

I really hope Bernard has a good game.

We are all over the shop from Son's corners. Very unlike us.

They are very much in the ascendency and we have no spark and very little left on the bench to change it.

Chance for someone to step up and be a hero...or get there on pens?

Zonal marking is killing us

Why oh why do managers persist with this?

Over the last few years defending set pieces has been our achilles heal why not go man on man? Shocking

That said entertaining for the neutral

Focus and fekkn guts will win this.

I'm not sure about the zonal making on this game, x2 headers were freebies.

But Everton can prevail..

A full GP, we'd have won in normal time. True grit and Everton, wore down Spurs.

UTFT!
☘️🙏🏼🍺⚽️😀

LA Lakers 5 Chicago Bulls 4

Bernard is probably even happier than both of us! :D

Drama. Intent. Passion, Desire. will to win This is what football looks like.

Well done to Carlo and the boys. Thats entertainment

Take a bow young man

When can we get back to the Righteous Moaning again?

;D

Win for the underdogs tonight. Couldn't even name a complete bench.

Proper cup tie that!

Real backbone and resilience- - maybe some self belief developing

Back it up and beat Fulham what a week it would be

Words too for Sigurdsson (sublime chipped pass), Richarlison and Coleman who I thought was great when he came on.

Just brilliant stuff.

If we had been a little wiser to their tactic of forcing corners on our right flank all game, they would never have forced extra time. We were caught 3 times with nobody on the line at the far post, which was the only major blemish on an otherwise exceptional performance.

My 10 year old lad got out of bed at 0-1 and went upstairs dejected. Can't wait to tell him we're through.

UTFT

What an effort!

My God.

Drink to calm the nerves. Jeez man what a game!

What I want to say right now is what a great game of football between two teams going at each other.

A classic cup tie. Well done Everton and Tottenham.

Fight,fight, fight, with all our might, for the boys in the royal blue jersey's, Everton!

Loads have said Davies, isn't good enough, but tonight he showed heart, desire, effort, commitment, and loads of football nouse, and this was matched by Doucouré's engine, I just wish a packed Goodison could have witnessed a game that did the old lady very proud!

Bit of Grecian 2000 as well, if it is not too cheeky.

Tom Davies.

Fucking hell that was great.

Rio Ferdinand,"you need a leader who knows how to win tropbies. Everton have that in Ancelotti"

Rio Ferdinand,,,1,23:20:06,,109.249.181.55,ok,23848,02/10/2021 23:20:06,Tomrichards2@outlook.com,reader,,,no 1130468,40457,toffeeweb,10/02/2021,Colin Glassar,colinglassar@yahoo.co.uk,"They played like giants tonight (except for the keystone cops defending and the waste of space who was subbed first).

Tom, Sigurdsson, Godfrey, Richarlison et al left everything on the pitch. That's all we can ask for. Oh, and Carlo is a genius. He outfoxed Jose tonight with his tactical changes.

What a win! Great team spirit again and is Ritchie back ?

Come on you Blues!!!

To be fair to Iwobi, he looked a lot happier sitting on the bench, but not as happy as you or me Colin, especially when his replacement got us the winning goal!!

What a game. What a result! I love you Everton.

Olsen kept us in it from the onset and played well. Ben Godfrey might not be a natural right back but had me thinking of Gary Stevens with that early strike! And what he done defensively after that just gives me a good feel about that kid.

There was most definitely a lot more urgency about us in general. Seamus rolled back the years and to be honest, watching him chase the ball all around the pitch I couldn't really tell where he was playing! Tom was outstanding as was Doucoure; much energy in midfield.

I think when DCL went off we saw the difference between having a good 14 and and good 25 (squad) was evident. They had us on the ropes but we held on and overcame.

What a ball from Sigurdsson for the winning goal.

I revert back. Great match between 2 evenly matched teams and absolutely fantastic Everton.

I always prefer to wait but tonight I couldn't. I purposely took the day off tomorrow so will relieve the nerves with a glass of a good grape. Well done blue boys. Very proud.

I expect they were convinced we would lose almost for the entire match!

Did that Darren fella have another pop at Carlo?

My favourite moment. Everton go 5-4 up and on the touch line stands Carlo, calm as a cucumber, sipping coffee! Brilliant.

Great match for the neutral but very stressful to see us concede four! However we are getting very hard to beat.

To be fair after first 30 minutes we played really well aside from defending corners and Mina's mistake for Spurs' second. Hopefully Richarlison back in form.

Until they recognise there are 14 other teams in the league they can sod off!

He's a winner, He's a sinner, but without the ego of asking if you want his autograph I'd say!

I thought Spurs had more quality Danny, but Everton had more guts? Everton and guts, it's been a long fuckin time!!

Yes!! How cool is that man! And I don't believe he's just standing there saying nothing.

Love the kid.
Captain and in top 5 centre halfs in the country next season.

(low whisper.
Im not 100% sure on his heading ability just yet)

Diid you get on him telling one if the spurs players to" shut your fuckin mouth"

The joy of having good selection problems to have. Good squads have depth.

Some great performances out there tonight particularly from Davies and Siggi who usually take loads of flak.

Great goals from Richie and Bernie. What a fucking night!

How hard is it watching this type of game on the telly? But what a win for the toffees! Goodnight everyone, what a difference it makes when Everton win like that!

Plenty of heroes tonight and I thought any of our three central midfield players could have been selected for the MOTM award, mine was Doucoure but I doubt any one could begrudge Sigurdsson getting the award, Tom Davies wouldn't have been out of place getting it either.

Don't know how they will get themselves together for Saturday's game versus Fulham but the spirit of the last two games might carry us through. Oh what a night!!!

I'm sure you smelled lovely, Tony.

A defensive horror show from both sides. With some quality finishes from the blues. I thought we had gotten over poor defending from set pieces but we looked like conceding every time.

Richarleson looks a different animal playing more centrally which he might do over the weekend if DCL is out injured.

Iwobi frustrates the life out of me, he is obviously a talented footballer but I just wish he had some heart and desire to win a game of footy.

I didn't agree with the Bernard substitution but was made up when he got the winner, he did little else.

Doucouré my motm. His tireless running for 120 was phenomenal. We are in the hat for the next round.

What a game.

Utft.

Long may it last, here's to a good home draw in the quarters. 1981, again..

Let's see whom we get, but after tonight, with luck, Everton, are a good team to back.

Seriously happy to see out the Spurs, assault and lessons, learnt, plenty of positives, to go ahead with, this season.

By hook, or by crook, we do have to offload Delph though.

But my word, you could see the difference between a good team and a squad in depth.

I am absolutely buzzing tonight but we really do need to continue to add depth in the summer.

But we are on to something here and I don't think this is another false dawn.

“ we want to do well in the premier league but the FA cup is the one we want”

I believe it is 666

He looked like he had a pair of shoulders on him tonight.
Weight training?

Yes Tony, Tottenham had more quality and they had the squad. Look at the subs they made, although ironically it was ours that won the game!

Agree, that was pure guts and mentality. That is what has changed with this squad. A combination of the players brought in and the Manager. There is a different mentality about the place. League position and performances like tonight don't lie.

Speak tomorrow Evertonians.

Siggy was fantastic (my MoM) and Doucouré as well but what I am noticing this year is that when we are on, we are on never give up, every player wants the ball and they are playing for each other.

Disappointed to concede 4 but happy to score 5 watched on ESPN and the co-commentator was some former Tottenham player who was gutted as he thought when DCL went off, they would stroll to a win.

As the famous line in Galaxy Quest states - Never Give Up, Never Surrender!!!!

Tom Davies MOTM for me but they all deserve a shout out.

Get in there blues!!

Tom Davies was absolutely immense, as was siggy, and Ben Godfrey, how does he keep on producing game after game? Also Robin Olsen, some tremendous saves that effectively kept us in the game. I could literally go on and on praising every player out there tonight, but a very special mention to Bernard, apart from his first touch after coming on as sub...............

WHAT A FUCKING FINISH FOR THE WINNER!!!

Dreadful defending of corners tonight but I trust the coaching team will be earning their money on the training ground over the next few days. Best "roller coaster" ride I've been on for a long time. COYB!!!

I can't say bad performance because of the nature of our win and the contribution of all the players – especially Doucouré, Davies and Richy who all played the 120 minutes and were still running themselves into the ground at the end. And a special mention for Seamus but a bit of concern for Holgate whose form has dropped off and Keane and Mina who both bottled it at times.

Nevertheless, we are in the next round despite the efforts of the pundits and the officials and a few teams will not be looking forward to facing us.

Very happy.

He's been a revelation and Carlo has him in every week. He gives it out too, he could be heard telling the Tottenham player to shut his fucking mouth and conveyed with pure contempt. When he arrived I remember him giving James a mouthful after being short-changed a pass, he's vile and just what we need.

Thought we were fantastic tonight everyone of them, when was the last time we came out on top in a game like that?

Live forum was good tonight as well, it gets a bad press. I find it very therapeutic and a place to practice my fickle emotional mood swings during the game, it was a Godsend tonight.

Well done, Everton.

I'm Sigurrdson's biggest critic, but he produced some lovely touches tonight. If only he could find this level of commitment more consistently. For me, Bernard is quite simply a far superior all-round footballer to Iwobi. Tonight's game perfectly illustrated my opinion.

Just as against Man Utd, it seemed to take us an hour to wake up to the dangers. We could have easily been three goals down, only for some fine saves from Olsen.

What on Earth was Digne doing in the tunnel before coming on to the pitch? He looked like a bloody tourist taking video pics on his iPad. Unbelievable! Where was his intensity and focus of mind for his job, the crucial game ahead? I sincerely hope that Carlo, or better still big Dunc, gives him a severe arse-kicking, for such unprofessional behaviour.

Oops sorry, just seen replies, it's me who deserves a smacked arse! Haha!

I thought the whole team showed a remarkable will to win and tremendous fitness levels. Davies and Doucouré kept us going in midfield with Sigurdsson adding fine touches to set up three goals.

It was never going to happen overnight and we still need patience as I'm sure he'll get eventually get us to where we want to be, another transfer window or two.

He's making great signings – Doucouré was superb tonight, what an engine he has. We played most of the match without our leading goal scorer and no James, Allan or King.

Thought Bernard did brilliantly when he came on as did Seamus. And finally, Sigurdsson looked like a £50M player, I could mention them all tonight.

Well done, you Blue Boys... now let's crack on and win this Cup and claim a top 4 spot.

Mina had a stinker though and we seriously need to relook at how we set up for corners. Man on the post stops a couple of goals today. Would have liked a couple of the kids come on for the last few minutes to give a bit of energy and give Richarlison and Sigurdsson a mini-break but I can see why he didn't risk it.

All in all an absolutely feckin' brilliantly entertaining game of footy. Hope we get Bournemouth next. Probably get Man City though.

I don't want to call you out, but he was bringing the virtual mascot onto the pitch and as captain trying to give him the virtual matchday experience.

He was fulfilling his duty as Everton captain. And I believe Everton as the club they are are currently giving that to kids who are facing difficult circumstances.

I hope that puts it into perspective. He was talking to the kid, likely a kid facing difficult circumstances and trying to give him a virtual experience that will lift his or her spirits.

Tourist photos? Haha😂👍🤣

Two words: Tom Davies. He was absolutely superb. Constantly wanted the ball, intuitive in everything he did, and an engine that didn't need stopping for recharge. For all the grief he has taken, tonight he was MotM.

Take a look at the reviews, they're all loving Everton football now. Get in line, take a number, cmon Blues!!!!!

David Pearl
10/02/2021 : 22:05:05
Yep, Bernard winner on 95 minutes

Okay but bloody hell – that was wonderful, aweful, exciting, dire, unexpected, amazing, and Tom Davies was MotM for a scintillating shift. How often have you seen those words here in the last 2 years ?

My throat's sore from screaming at the defence and everyone else for giving the ball away too much or scoring fabulous goals. For the number of times I found myself saying to my wife “Glyfi's run that midfield and yet found time to cost us a couple of goals but he was still very, very, good and the lob for the winner, sublime." Fernandes, De Bruyne who are yeh?

Tom Davies yes MotM, bizarre and Carlo is getting a tune out of both these guys. Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison really look back from their short downtime and Doucouré box to box like we know he can be. Coleman so good when he came on and Bernard, stunning winner.

There, I've done it, got myself a piece of ToffeeWeb history, tee-shirts in a generous 6XL please just cos I like em roomy. Fulham at the weekend, 0-1 here we come !
Staysafe all.

Ah eh Boys, you're making me feel worse! First I find out it's a virtual mascot that Digne was taking pictures for and then you tell me it's an underprivileged kid. Now I feel guilty as well as stupid!! I thought he was making a home video for his folks in France! Haha!

Generally we are a right bunch of moaning bastards on here. Pint is mostly half-empty, but what a game. If we had been beaten we would have another 100 comments on here.

The game was end to end, Kane slipping when just about to score was a big turning point.

Great that Tom Davies is getting plaudits but ffs what was he doing for their 4th goal. He did it again 2 min from time. Sigurdsson sets up 2 and scores a pen but gifted them 2.

Doucouré was immense, he finished the game and didn't look like he had broken sweat.

Coleman has to start right mid on Sunday he still has the right attitude to compete.

Hopefully Rodriguez and Gomes are also fit as there will be some sore limbs tomorrow.

UTFT.

I said it on the Forum, and I'll say it again, this is a game we will remember for the rest of our lives, and talk about where we were when we saw it. Long after Siggy has played out the end of his career at Heerenveen or Vitesse, we'll remember a goal and three assists in one of the greatest Blue midfield performances in any FA Cup tie ever -- and how Sanchez overpowered him twice on his own goal line. (Has any one Everton player ever been so directly involved in six goals in a game?) And long after Bernard has been shuttled off unmourned to Belenenses or Boavista or Montpellier, we'll remember that left-footed cracker that ticketed us to a Cup final. Which I firmly believe it will.

Today was the stuff of legend. Flawed, thrilling, agonizing, heartstopping, ultimately magnificent.

Legend.

Delighted to see so many giving praise to some of the usual scapegoats and not dwelling on their errors.

Yes, you could focus on Siggy's part in allowing Sanchez two headed goals.

Yes, you could comment on Doucoure winning the ball, making ground then hitting a dreadful pass at times.

Yes, you could recall Tom giving away the ball dangerously around the penalty and unnecessarily flying into a tackle the Spurs players skipped around to set up a dangerous attack.

But all three of them had outstanding games and as many have noted it is difficult to pick one over the other as MoTM. Siggy had a mega role in all our goals. Richy's two goals were a reminder of what we have been missing. Bernie's winner a very cool and immaculately hit and placed finish. Coleman leading by example when he came on. Olsen blameless on all the goals.

And Carlo Ancelotti? Calmly blowing on his coffee whilst all around him are going ape shit with the winning goal...an iconical moment.

I feared for us in extra time. In truth, I thought it was the most controlled and dominant we looked in the entire match. They were the ones looking goosed and out of ideas, whereas we defended well and managed the game and the pace of it so much better.

Only the fans were missing tonight. They'd have lifted the roof off the Old Lady.

Nine wins out of our last 13 league and cup games. This team is learning a winning habit. AND how not to get beat.

Me too. There are a few decent and funny chaps in there like Colin Glasar and Mike Gaynes. Even Tony Marsh doesn't bother me — I think Old Tony is just one of those blokes who walks around with a sandwich board saying “The end is nigh”.

But all the “Sig is a cunt, not fit for the shirt” crowd with 85 minutes left to play was a bit much for me. I get we all get frustrated but it doesn't make for a great read.

Can't comment on performance of players except to say the team spirit seems to be there along with a desire to keep having a go. Hope that can translate into 3 mammoth efforts in the remaining games in this competition.

Coleman came on and gave us an outlet. He held the ball up and linked up play. Holgate came on and put some great blocks and defensives headers in and obviously Bernard scored even though I thought he was pretty poor.

Let's hope for a kind draw in the next round.

Four superb finishes and I have to shout out the brilliant ball from Sigurdsson for Bernard's winner. Hopefully that will give Richarlison's confidence a massive boost. Looking at our bench compared to theirs, I was worried, but Coleman and Bernard were excellent when they came on.

They were very cute where the centre-backs moved into space on corners to combat our zonal marking. Sanchez managed to match up with Sigurdsson for the first goal and Alderweireld with Digne on the third. We saw a bad Yerry game from Mina and to leave Kane unmarked in the 6-yard box for the fourth? Wouldn't mind a return to our structured game management after the last two matches to be honest.

Surprised there are only 240+ comments when we win an amazing 5-4 cup tie. Maybe everyone is too emotionally exhausted!

I too Rob, thought Bernard did not so much overall (though more than usual), save for the great finish and the perfectly timed run to stay onside. Yet fan votes on the BBC website had him as MotM! Understandable I guess.

Sigurdsson played about the best game I remember from him, effortless, finding space with ease, great passes. Reminiscent of so many performances for his country, which I always hoped to see at Everton. It's in there, and criminal we've seen so little of it really.

Coleman immense, Davies and Doucouré excellent, Richarlison "back" - those finishes fantastic. Olsen's saves, Digne pretty tidy. Calvert-Lewin better than recently.

Imagine what a performance like that would do to Fulham...

How hard is it watching this type of game on the telly?

Ha!

Welcome to my world.

But what are we doing when we can only field 7 subs, including two young goalkeepers and no forwards at all. We can't keep losing players to injuries when we've only got at best a squad of 20 players.

What's really happening with Allan, Delph and Gbamin? To lose Gomes and Rodriquez to light knocks as well doesn't bode well for the final push. All our light knocks have taken weeks to repair.

But a night to remember, the spirit was immense, only missing a 40,000 crowd to sing us off.

Which provided Sigurdsson the atmosphere that best allows him to display his own attacking skill. He was terrific tonite.

On Saturday v United for example Tom was one of our worst rated players. Even Josh King who had about 10 minutes playing time got a higher rating.

Safe to totally ignore them.

Just something else to absorb for no particular gain :)

I thought Spurs got away with some bad fouls. The ref was straight to his pocket for our misdemeanors but gave their players a bit more benefit of doubt.

Overall it was a gritty, dogged performance. Let's hope we get a favourable draw and a chance of getting to Wembley.

Let's face it, both teams were a shambles defensively. Good job we weren't playing Man City.

This is the best chance that we have had of competing for 25 years.

Paul Smith @ 212, take a bow, sir.

Regarding Ben Godfrey:

...he's vile and just what we need.

Fuckin' right.

I said on the Live Forum, Ben Godfrey can sleep with my wife.

Brent Stephens, somewhere up there in the comments, rhetorically asked if Godfrey had put a foot wrong since he signed?

I can't remember him doing so. The kid is just everything this team has been crying out for for a decade / quarter century / pick your amount of time.

Finally -

I can not, ever, remember a thread so full of happiness, vitality, positivity and joy. Long, long may this continue.

Tony Marsh told Mike Gaynes he loved him on the Live Forum tonight. I think I also saw Jesus. And pigs fly.

I am sure there's some eyebrows raised when Bernard was being subbed in. But he provided a beautiful cross to Keane (mind you, it's Davis who switched that ball before that) which should have gone in and also the vital goal. Carlo does know how to rotate the squad and utilise each player as best as he can.

While Olsen redeemed himself from his "mistake" in last game, I wouldn't be surprised Carlo rest him and give Pickford a nod if he has recovered. Now Pickford surely knows he's not the absolute No 1 and can be replaced. Hope this drives him to stay focus.

COYB!

https://www.espn.com/soccer/english-fa-cup/story/4312517/everton-spurs-fa-cup-thriller-showcases-all-that-makes-football-great-even-if-the-defending-gave-managers-nightmares

"Mourinho once ridiculed 5-4 as a "hockey score" after Arsenal beat Spurs by that margin in 2004, but that was the scoreline he was on the wrong end of when substitute Bernard scored the ninth goal of the game, seven minutes into extra-time, after converting Sigurdsson's pass."

The only loser was my nerves. I didn't know whether to sit, stand or jump around the room. Time for bed.

I don't care how many mistakes anyone made because, in my eyes tonight, just this one night, is when every man in that team played a blinder. I could single out some players too, but again, it was a team performance but on individual grit and desire.

They brought on five substitutes, we brought on three and we were lucky to have them. Such depletion but such effort and a special mention for Coleman, absolute brilliant performance and what a substitution!

So I raise a glass to Bernard and smile, I am for one glad he is still here, as are all those who wanted him shipped out a couple of weeks ago!

Well done, Blues... well done... I haven't stopped grinning all day!

Christine Foster - Considering the number of times I've asked for your hand in matrimony on these pages, only to receive icy silence, making you smile has made my day. 😜

I just now, for the first time, saw Carlo blowing on his coffee. Legend.

I hate the impatience of modern football fans in general and how it has infiltrated our club. I see it on this forum time and time again, as I'm sure you do.

Tom Davies has given his all for 3 different managers since he graduated from the academy. He has been selected each time to the first team on merit. Goal of the Season and Young Player of the Season 2017 at the age of fucking 18?! Youngest player to captain the club at 20 years and 60 days. This kid wants to play for Everton. End of. Why the hate?

He will do a job anywhere when required, regargless of ego. How many first-teamers can you say that about? This young lad is of a new breed of Everton player (along with Calvert-Lewin and Holgate) who would play in goal if asked! Regardless of salary.

Surely this is the type of player we need to breed for Everton, not single out and persecute??

Carlo Fucking Ancelotti sees the lad as a talent, end of. Morgan Schneiderlin would still be here otherwise? Would he not? Easily my MotM (and a lot of other readers) for the last 3 games he has played.

Understudy for Allan and Gomes? Yes. Great prospect player still learning his trade? Aged just twenty-fucking two! Undoubtedly. Trees, Forest, ToffeeWeb. In that order.

I think your message might just get through to the Davies haters as we all revel in the euphoria of this great win.

Well done, Adam... well done Tom Davies... well done, Carlo for keeping cool (especially his coffee), and massive well done to the team. COYB

Tom Davies is one. You just saw a lad work his socks off. In the initial 'shock' first few minutes, he was the one who stood up to be counted. Guess what? He's always done that. He's always given a few passes away too... guess what? He did it in this game as well. The trick is playing him with players who can do the things he's not good at and let him play to his strengths.

Gylfi Sigurdsson is another. I think he's a bit slow and can't defend. And he was those things in this game too. He jumped out of tackles and turned away from headers. But he also creates in the Number 10 role. The assist for Bernard would be the headline if it was done by James. It was just an exquisite game-winning moment. Again, play him to his strengths and find complementary players for his weaknesses.

That goes right through the team. It always does.

Doucouré pinched the MotM for me closely followed by Davies and Sigurdsson . On Davies, that was the best performance I think he's put in since 2017 when he burst onto the scene. He was positive and passed and ran forward, light-years away from what he's been producing.

He was decent against Man Utd, but went up a level today. If he puts in that type of excellent performance more regularly, as opposed to once very 3 years, he'll become a legitimate first-choice first-teamer even when we have a fully fit squad. Well done Tom.

Coleman came on and showed Iwobi how to play right midfield. On tonight's evidence, Coleman is a better option, which on the face of it is bonkers, but reflects Iwobi just lacks something.

Godfrey peerless once again and when you consider he cost the same as Iwobi it highlights how well money can be spent, or not, in the transfer market.

Olsen has got to be given a run now surely. He makes me feel calmer and I'm just watching so he must help the defence (maybe not Mina based on his game tonight though!).

Well done, Carlo, you can see players developing, not just tactically but mentally getting stronger, the latter being a weakness we've seen for 25 years or so.

Can anybody please suggest where I might find a recording of the game on-line?

I have always admired him for that but now a mixture of maturity and belief from Carlo he's getting is so right with his decision making. Maybe it's just maturity but the manager's influence undoubted. Coyb, I'm so proud to be a blue. Even if it's dragged off us today by a hard cup draw, it's still a pleasure to see Carlo's methods finally being listened to.

So pleased to see Davies getting praise too, he really seems to be maturing now and may well become a fixture in the team if he keeps up that level of performance.

Coleman's running for our winner was about as good as it got last night. He showed he still wants to win silverware and he's running out of time.

Iwobi on the other hand played like he has 30 more years in the game.

Great win with as good a character I have ever seen from the blues. Almost everyone was as poor off the ball as they were as good on the ball.

Doucouré is a machine. I'd want to run more if he was my team mate.

Doucouré was immense, Seamus fantastic... nerves in tatters!!!!!!! Olsen needs a run.

Oh and a man on each post would have stopped Wilson's goal and 2 last night from corners. Just do it!

Don't get me wrong. I'm not giving up on him just yet. He has shown glimpses of his ability. He is still young and can improve.

Spurs did well from set-pieces. Something they must have worked on. Our weakness is at right-back and I'm sure Ancelotti & Brands will look to resolve it long term. Could Niels Nkounkou be converted to right-back?

Godfrey is best as a centre-half. Lucas Digne is happiest as a left-wingback. I don't think Mason Holgate can play right-side or right-back.

Where we will and have struggled is against the likes of Son, Mane & Sterling. Two former blues will give us that headache to solve on Sunday. Lookman & Antonee Robinson have looked like Fulham's best attacking options from what I've seen of them. It will be another tough game. I just hope we can keep the spirit we showed last night.

Davies, Doucouré & Sigurdsson played really well against a decent Spurs midfield. Richarlison was miles better than he has been. He ran them ragged and got his rewards. I don't think Olsen had much chance of saving any of the goals. He did produce some good saves early on.

The game was blood and thunder, I felt weirdly relaxed about it. I clearly know nothing about football after wadging onto my Spurs mates about what a tight affair it will be, 1 goal from a set-piece will seal it, blah blah... The game was wide open, expansive and full of attacking endeavour.

If Carlo and his team can get some balance between the side with the attacking verve we saw at the weekend and last night and the team that had previously looked so defensively solid, then I think we can still mount a top 4 challenge, why not? Hell I'm even thinking of backing us for the cup!

Much to be optimistic about really: Richarlison, Davies, Gomes and even Sigurdsson (yes, I said it; please nobody take a screenshot and lambast me for it when I start moaning about him again) are coming into some form at an interesting time. Allan is soon to return and with him, I hope, some balance. When he does, then Carlo will have a midfield headache. COYB.

Some of the goals were by way of errors, especially Spurs first, which I initially thought "Oh No this is going to be one of those nights" well yes it was, what teamwork, team spirit and the will, not to be outdone. How long is it since we saw that? Just when you thought we had edged in front, back came Spurs, in all fairness who made it a FA Cup thriller.

Great to see Richarlison, what appeared to be back to his best, and getting in on the goals, hope Calvert-Lewin's withdrawal was only precautionary, and he'll be available for Sunday. The other aspect of last night that pleased me and I'm sure others too, was that was wasn't our strongest eleven, mainly due to injury and Carlo's selections. Shows that we now have strength in depth.

So if Calvert-Lewin can't make it, we at least have "reinforcements, we are going to advance". Not the like old wartime story on the front line, with a poorly transmitted/received signal " send three and fourpence, we are going to a dance" !

At least we have dispelled another myth that Spurs win the Cup (FA) when the year ends in '1' yes Spurs will win FA this year! Sorry Jose, close but no cigar! Hopefully too this will boost us spirit-wise in our bread and butter run in, with games coming up ahead. Oh Yes, what a night indeed, even Carlo's Bovril got a blow job! :-)

If it wasn't for our 5 tap ins that Lloris should have easily saved then Harry would be fulfilling his destiny. Now, he may have to move on to win things.

I thought I watched 2 Teams play out a fantastic match which was full of quality goals and excitement. Our finishing was brilliant but all the pundits saw was a disastrous goalkeeping performance only lifted by a sublime one-yard diving header by the prodigal son from the greatest cross ever.

You couldn't effing make it up.

Just warning you that you will have to endure the phrase "He was the accidental villain here at Goodison when Andre Gomes suffered a terrible injury. He's just not that sort of player though".

Yet in the last game our commentator was going on about VVD.

Godfrey and Doucouré surely our best two signings in a long time!

Tom Davies – take a bow! What a great example of not letting the bastards grind you down!

A superb performance from a fantastic Evertonian in Seamus who clearly realises his chances of glory are running out!

Hopefully Richarlison now back to form too.

Allan, James and in-form Gomes to come back into the squad too. This is looking good but my nerves in every game now will be in tatters!!

In the interests of balance, what a player Son is.

Carlo said DCL's sub was a "precaution". Still haven't recovered from last night. We seem to have a great spirit in the team now, and lots of players, like Tom, Siggy, Seamus, and Gomez are playing better.

Derek, I hope your post doesn't mean what I think it means?

The reports and comments have covered almost everything, but I would just add:-

Our centre forward who can't shoot kicked the ball very hard when he scored his goal.

In the past, when we have won epic FA Cup ties we have often gone out with a whimper in the next round. That's another piece of the Club's mentality that needs to change. Given the shifts in mindset that are taking place in front of our eyes, that is achievable.

Link

Mike #238 - lump-in-throat stuff!

I am absolutely delighted for all involved in the victory. The contributions made by those who started and those who finished off the tie was immense.

There is a great spirit developing within the squad at the moment and even if DCL is out for a period of time we will find away, we will find away to get the job done.

There are a lot of players who had a tough time over the past year or so who are now starting to play really well and that's a great sign as we enter the final third of the season.

I expect more changes at the weekend, Holgate, James, Gomes and King may start which will keep a bit of freshness in the team.

I am with you, I think the things that actually make the difference in games determine who stood out from the rest.

I thought Davies had a good game but I can't just flaunt words because I didn't like recent reviews of him.

Standards must be shocking if an outstanding performance could be found last night.

I found three outstanding performances last night.

Doucoure
Davies
Godfrey

Off the ball runners, players out of position etc some of BTs camera work is diabolical.

Thomas good for you mate. I don't agree. They can all play better and Tottenham strolled through our midfield time and time again.

On the ball they were much better.

It sounds full on racist.

Godfrey?

Siggurdson playing high up the pitch meant more room for Spurs midfield i agree.

After DCL injury Siggy went deeper. We looked a lot more solid then

The goals from Spurs were from decent buildup by them, but primarily came about through our defensive mistakes, which hopefully Ancelotti will address in training.

This performance was so encouraging for us. Superb technical play in attack, and grittiness and not giving up to ensure victory.

And Carlo Ancelotti is such a cool dude. The way he blew on his coffee was priceless.

Thank you Everton. Thank you Spurs. What a game oh, and bravo Carlo.

Tom Davies was outstanding and massively assisted by Doucoure, they hardly put a foot wrong all night. And wasn't it great to see Richarlison back to his goal scoring best. Just a shame that DCL has picked up what Duncan Ferguson thinks is a hamstring problem, as his goal turned the game.

Strangely as well as some of the great performances last night both Mina and Keane were below their best last night, but seeing both have been so consistent this season it would be a bit churlish to criticize too much.
There were times last night when it looked like we had reverted to Marco Silvas time when every time the opposition got a corner they scored or created a chance. Hopefully that was just a blip and Carlo and the coaches will put that right pretty quickly.

Whatever happens for the rest of the season, Evertonians have a glow about us at the moment and some of our pride has also been restored. I think its been far to long since we have been allowed to dream.

I find it kopite like and I know people wont like that but thats exactly how they behave.

I have nothing against Godfrey but my god what is going on with this hype. We have conceded 7 in 2 games and hes played both.

Just to be clear though and before all the Kevin and Perrys wake up, it wasn't all his fault either.

Outstanding my arse I don't want Everton becoming a hype machine Thomas it just creates fase hope.

Lets stick with supporting the team, smile and grow in confidence as a club.

Doucoure and Colman on the right where always dangerous, really powering the attack. Calvert Lewin, Godfrey, Digne, and Keane where competant and Mina and Iowbi took a step back in progress, their weaknesses resurfacing. Need to do more work on set piece defending. Olsen was Ok, but won't cut out a cross. Holgate put in a similar after injury performance.

Thought Spurs did play well, though where given too much space in midfield, but Everton had that special edge. The spirit of the previous game continued.

Which goals were down to him?

Kopite behaviour?
You know where that statement belongs?

Hype machine?
For praising the players in a great win?

When I saw the team sheet, I thought yes at least we have a strong defence, we should be okay here, and we have some decent in-form attackers. However, after they scored, my thoughts were that my initial feelings were completely incorrect and over confident, and feared the inevitable was about to happen, but going that early goal behind seemed to galvanise them.

Again on the hypothetical theme I would have imagined the atmosphere to have been similar (inside a packed Goodison) to that against Bayern Munich where we were a goal down at half time. The Stadium lifted those players who became demi-gods in the second half, the rest is history, but that was the greatest feeling, and atmosphere I have ever experienced at Goodison Park.

A clinical 1-0 would not be being talked about by long suffering Evertonians who yearn for entertainment and excitement as well as success. It wouldn't have had neutral supporters taking to the airwaves and the comments sections of sports sites to thank both teams for playing out one of the best FA Cup matches in years.

Football is about the passion, the hysteria, the hype, shouting at the TV (for now) that Bernard is shite and offers nothing and then, two minutes later when he cracks in the winner, what a star he is and what a twat you feel for ever doubting his utter fecken genius.

Exactly what the other lunatics done for years.

Remember when according to most of them they had the best player in every position but couldn't win the league.

The Scouse Cafu played for them, they all had pet names, Zidane supported them blah blah.

It just gets silly after some decent performances and it should be based on standards.

Outstanding is a soppy over the top phrase for someone who has played well. Its as bad as saying he is championship after a bad game.

Yeah we all want to win to nil, but scoring a last minute equaliser at the weekend, then winning a joyous 9 goal game 5-4 with no annoying VAR rubbish to completely destroy the flow of the game, and thus reduce it to a spectacle based around technology and not football is something to behold these days.

My view is that a lot of people have lost the joy of football, through no fault of their own, due in no small part to VAR (I hate VAR) and also due to the constant 'keep-ball' football that all teams now insist on playing at all times, no matter how dull it can be.

Football used to be about the purity of sport, with the simplicity of the game being it's major draw. That's been eroded and is killing the game as a spectacle in my view.

This now appears to have turned into an anti-VAR rant.

Cant see anyone mentioning Maldini.
Except yourself

Reading some of the above, sounds like mainly staying away from the Live Forum has been a good choice. Thinking of microcosms, it has been hijacked and become the epitome of writing off team selection before the team has walked on the pitch and kicked a ball. Writing the game off after 5 minutes and putting the season on the "another failure" shelf after a bad run in October. I don't mind a bit of passion and accept in the moment frustrations, but it has become increasingly toxic.

Anyway back to last night. Still buzzing.

Ben Godfrey did put a foot or two wrong - there was a particular instance where a stray pass led to a Spurs attack. And he held his head in guilt as he caught the glares of his team mates. But, he yet again showed what a gem we have bought. I'm a massive fan, but he still has developing to do. Most of the team put a foot wrong last night as they do in most games. That's football. But the grit and determination not to be beaten was outstanding, considering the quality Tottenham had. I thought Son in particular stood out.

In reflection, Doucoure tipped the scales for me on our side. He must be running on duracel plus plus.

Phil @234. No need to beat yourself up. I've said things on here and elsewhere that in hindsight I realise I called wrong.

Once again, credit both teams there for putting on a blockbuster of a cup tie.

Same shit happened with James McCarthy and Schide.

Then it becomes the total opposite and players are hated because they were overhyped by the now haters.

Each to their own though I find it much better that we are happier with the side but i'll be staying humble until we actually achieve something.

Understand where you are coming from there.

Wife was watching a really good drama which annoyingly, almost kept catching my attention!!

Sigurdsson was the most influential given the quality assists he provided.

You could focus on that and conclude no one was 'outstanding'. Or you can focus on the many good things they did and be joyous and celebrate an 'outstanding' result. An historic one. Possibly a defining one in the evolution of Everton under Carlo Ancelotti.

Your choice. Your mindset. Your perception.

In the meantime I see the Everton players have a new nickname for Tom Davies which, judging from some posters views on the player, will not go down well:

The General

What is going on? The General. The Duke. Are we going to christen one of our South American contingent "El Capitano" next? We will soon sound like some kind of 19th Century aristocratical military regime at this rate.

Could get controversial if we sign a German.

Please stop it!

Iwobi posted another from last night's game. Just 15 seconds long, it shows Bernard behind hoisted in the air by team mates and manic screaming.

Inside Everton's Changies

A (winning) team is bonding here.

Paul 337.

Where is the club based?

They are showing so much that we haven't seen before and yet on occasions such as the two Barcode games they are terrible.

If they can get a run going they could finish in the top four but the competition is fierce and defensively they need to get it together.

Anyway they should be able to take care of Fulham but with RS and City to come they will need to be at their best to get anything out of them.

You have to filter out so much shite when searching for Everton content. And then, of course, there is their in-house bias.

There is currently a 30-second video of Duncan Ferguson in a post-match interview from last night, talking about Tom Davies. It then goes straight into a tedious slide show about t'other lots Thiago. WTF???!!!

They really have no idea on serving up the appropriate content to their different target audiences.

Let us see if the transfer of King is going to be a smart move as Richarlison seems to be coming back into form, and I think he is better out wide than a central striker. We can concentrate on the league with some difficult games coming up.

Hi Stan [307] What I don't understand is the fact that some people turn a positive into a negative, I tend to look for positives following an unimpressive performance. However last night for me was a match to remember, and both teams deserve credit for producing a truly nail biting contest, one that the neutral will have enjoyed, my enjoyment came when the final whistle went. Regarding the 'Fan's Forum' I have never logged onto that and as a so-called "Snowflake" it would appear it's wise not to.

Just watched the highlights again. Shows that even though I say I watch the game more on TV, you still miss things.

Do we all realise how influential the much maligned Sigurdsson was last night?

1st goal: cute pass through to DCL to smash home.
3rd goal: sublime take down on the left and pass through to DCL to earn the penalty. Takes the penalty with composure and scores.
4th goal: pass to put Richarlison in.
5th goal: back heel, turn and reverse pass to put Bernard in for the winner.

The only goal he wasn't directly involved in or influential with was the 2nd.

I never hear anyone protesting or alleging racism when they say Scots are all mean or tight, that the Irish are all allegedly thick, and the Welsh prefer the woolly buttocks of a Celtic Ram to a hetero experience. No we all take it as a joke, and that is exactly what it is a joke. People jumping on bandwagons about this that and the other, makes me sick to be honest, it has gone too far with some.

I have many friends who are black, Moslems etc, and many different races, but they know that I like a laugh and a joke, but equally they also know I would be the first there to help them in times of difficulty or need. Please don't play that racist card with me, it doesn't work!

Better than posting based on my posts but not replying or acknowledging me like a big baby.

The edited images of Carlo with his coffee today are class mate I hope you come across some of them.

Danny i am one of Siggurdsons biggest critics but last night i couldn't ask more of him.

I metioned to a few people last night how fit he and Dacoure looked and how strong was he late on?

Fitness and professionalism are things we could never take away from Gylfi to be fair.

Made up for Bernard too. He must know there is doubts about him and the manager prefers athletes but what a positive and clever player he is.

Likewise with Davies, I've been genuinely please to see him come good again as given my earlier enthusiasm, I thought he was going to end up on the could have been so good pile. Although I maintain, I have always thought he was worth keeping in the squad.

Perhaps this is down to the management of those players and a management team that is finally getting the best or at least more out of them.

I said earlier. Doucoure runs on duracel plus plus, That seems to be backed up by a Rolls Royce 747 engine generator just in case the bunny runs dry.

Sean Callaghan @ 315-

Football is about the passion, the hysteria, the hype, shouting at the TV (for now) that Bernard is shite and offers nothing and then, two minutes later when he cracks in the winner, what a star he is and what a twat you feel for ever doubting his utter fecken genius.

I couldn't agree more with that. There are a lot of posters slating the Live Forum, or at least some of the comments on said Live Forum. I think Sean's statement encapsulates the Live Forum.

It's a place where people speak quickly, decisively, emotionally, with little forethought. Before you go on, just know you're going to get a bevy of, "He's shite", "Carlo's shite", et al. I'd about promise you it's someone in the throws of passion "sounding negative" because they'd give their fuckin' spleen for a win.

Yes, there's a posse of boo-boys. So what? Often times those negative fuckers are brave enough to say what we know but don't want to believe.

People who don't like the Live Forum are a conundrum for me. I can't understand what there is to dislike? All viewpoints, piss, vinegar, roses and honey balled into one conscience stream of intelligence and shit, humor (humor) and bile, affection and Godfrey Fuck Off - they all live peacefully and brazenly together in Live Forum harmony.

It's gold.

This gentleman, I don't know if he's talented or not as I've never seen any evidence for either, offers (IMO) absolutely nothing. He's not particularly fast, has no passing/crossing ability, appears to be weak and is terrified of physical contact.

I could go on but surely it's evident to everyone that he's a useless waste of a shirt. Give me Oumar Niasse, or Denis Straqualarsi any day.

Most managers seem to have a blind spot for certain players who offer next to nothing. Carlo seems to have found his in Iwobi.

My dear old mum used to love reading the births and deaths. You'll never guess who died by Peter Kay was bang on the money.

Compare all four Spurs goals to our five. Whilst of course every goal is preventable if you look hard enough, their four were all down to our poor defending rather than creativity.

I can't believe a couple of posters blaming zonal marking when it has been functioning so well for us under Carlo. Under Marco Silva there were always feelings of dread when the opposition won a corner or a free kick around our penalty area. And time and time again they duly scored.

That is far from the case under Carlo. Last night was very much the exception. Typically, both Richy and DCL are our near post men and more often than not it is that pair that clears the ball out before reaching the 6-yard box.

Son's delivery all night long from corners was exceptional. Clearing those near post players and reaching that highly dangerous zone, centrally in the 6-yard box.

The tactic of Siggy on Sanchez didn't work and how Siggy 'marked' him was equally woeful. That will all be analysed and worked on in the coming days, of that you can be sure.

Now look at our goals. The first starts with Siggy pressing Alderweireld whose attempted get-out ball to Højbjerg is picked off by Doucoure. How Everton ruthlessly exploit this turnover is impressive. Doucoure's one touch pass to Iwobi on the flank. Iwobi one touch pass to Siggy, with his back to goal and Alderweireld in close attention, takes one touch to control the ball and - noting the run from Dom - plays a delightful and perfectly weighted round the corner pass into Dom who hits the ball powerfully and early with a one touch finish. Ruthless, as I say, and incisive.

For the second, more ruthless and incisive play. Both Richy and Dom challenge Spurs defenders which results in Digne playing an accurate one touch pass from a difficult dropping ball into Dom. Great awareness and technique by our #9 with his one touch back heel to Richy. GREAT play by Richy on the finish. He actually lets the ball initially do a lot of the work and only touches it twice. Once to shift the ball a tad and then - WHAM! - to quickly get the shot away at an angle that gives Lloris no chance.

On the pen, great ball down the line by Digne to Siggy. Superb control and lay in to Dom. Cool as you like by the Iceman from the spot.

The fourth goal, good initial pressure on Spurs defenders by Iwobi and Siggy whose poor clearance is cleanly headed back by Tom to Siggy. Silky control and lay in to the excellent movement from Richy, who again takes the shot early to surprise Lloris.

Final goal, Seamus picks up the ball on the right and plays it across field to Bernard. Seamus continues his run to offer Bernard an overlap pass, but Bernard calmly plays it centrally to Siggy just outside the 'D' of the Spurs penalty area. Superb drag back and awareness by Siggy to dink the ball over the Spurs back line to Bernard whose run is excellent. As is the wee man's finish, calmly letting the ball drop and shaping well for another one touch finish across Lloris.

Yes, the cheap concession on the Spurs goals was annoying. It will have annoyed the manager and the players, of that I've no doubt.

But there was also some sublime football on pretty much all our goals last night.

One more thing. For those who have access to the extended highlights of the game on the club site, watch Tom Davies as he leaves the tunnel to restart the game in the second half.

He raises both hands to touch the 'Welcome to Everton' plaque at the end of the tunnel then beats his palm on his shirt badge.

You can't buy that sort of passion. That's inbred.

The difference in a cup game is you only have the 1 chance,win you are through, loose you are out. In the league you can afford to loose some games but still go on and win the league, not in a Cup Game. That is why defense sometimes goes out the window when 1 team goes behind, its all or nothing.

Maybe last night's result was the result of this games high score as, we had 2 coaches who are often criticized for their defensive tactics who wanted to win, regardless of the score as playing more defensively may have meant a 1nil scoreline would have been risky.

The F.A. Cup is full of surprises so when you win sit back, get your blood pressure back down and enjoy it, it's a lot better than loosing, especially if you watch it over again and appreciate how entertaining it was.

The good news is, his son in law works with the medical team at the club, "Recovery" as he put it. I asked him about DCL, and he does have a hamstring problem, and was taken off as a precaution, and was having a scan this morning. At the time he didn't know the results of the scan, but they are hopeful DCL will be ok for sunday!!

Good analysis.

But "that highly dangerous zone?"
Is that anywhere near the Erogenous zones?

'We've been defending well from corners all season, so we will look at and analyse that in the next few days.'

Michael Keane on Everton's Qualities

Silva definitely gave zonal marking a bad name.

I certainly wouldn't blame zonal marking for the goals. I would blame poor execution which has been admittedly rare this season.

The three players lined up across the six yard box are specifically there to clear out balls in that area. They got done twice, the first one DCL for some reason seems to duck under the ball, the second one Digne seems to come forward which seems to impede Keane getting a header in against Alderweireld.

And of course as you pointed out Siggy didn't cover himself in glory however it did seem a bit of a mismatch.

Not sure if it's a confidence thing or not, but I can't see Marcel Brands getting the go ahead to sign him, for what I must admit did seem an excessive fee, if it wasn't in some way justified. I am hoping there is more to come from him, and yes he was pretty anonymous last night and did deserve, to be hooked. Maybe he's a late developer! :-)

The Leeds game, I looked at the midfield and thought it had no legs to it, and that the energetic Leeds team would just simply out-hustle Everton - wrong!

Then, the Man Utd. game. Two-nil down, wondering why Everton cannot string a decent move together, thinking that it will be a rout - wrong again!

I thought last night would be a tight game between two defensively set up teams. 9 goals into the game confirmed that I don't have a clue; as did looking at the subs bench and wondering how it could help Everton if needed, especially when comparing it to Spurs' subs bench.

So, a few games ago, Everton looked like they were defensively solid, and a little too unspectacular for some; however, 15 goals in 2 games puts that theory to bed, for the time being.

I have also had periods of questioning the passion, as at times the team seems to switch off, and not look too bothered. Well, maybe I was very wrong there too.

What a weirdly eclectic team we have become!

And how unknowledgeable am I!!??

Very true how unpredictable we have become. Consistently beating or drawing the top teams and then having a brain fart in home games you expect to win.

Bad thing it's Fulham at home next

That forum is littered with rash comments and quick shots at anything that can sound bad towards the manager or team.

The serial posters in the forum must miss half the game typing anyway? No way are they seeing the game properly when one eye is on a forum.

They will beg to differ of course and I bet there are many good posts but what is anyone doing in a forum when they have access to the game.

I'd have thought the reason to enter a forum in the first place was because someone is really interested in the club or game.

It appears their biggest interest is not watching the game?

Carlo Ancelotti has told Tom Davies to keep things simple.

"Play the right pass and don't take too many touches."

Have to say its working

Paul 373,

The way its going youbwill get plenty more mate

Thanks .

First defence of a racist: some of my best friends are black, Muslim etc. Similarly Derek's four white nations example ignores the difference between prejudicial white national stereotypes and racism, which is prejudice plus power and which works in favour of all white people against black and people of colour.

What's your answer to Ron's question?

As for the juvenile sexism of your comment #388 on the United draw thread and the pathetic response by Graham @389...I'm sure you both love and respect women too.

I asked him if he thought Carlo would see out his contract? His reply was, and this is the bad news for all the Carlo bashers, and three in particular, is that Ancelotti wants to stay at the club for another ten years!! The family didn't really know what to expect when they first arrived at the club, but having seen the size of the club, and the history, and everything else, Carlo is determined to get Everton back where we belong. He wants to emulate what Man city have won over the last few years and wants to leave his own legacy at the club!!

I didn't accuse you of being racist. I just asked for an explanation of your post like a couple of other posters had.

Your post mentioned how good Son would be with his eyes open.

You have explained that you meant it as a joke and that you don't have a racist bone in your body and that you have lots of multi cultural friends.

If I have offended you I apologise but your earlier post is racist.

Now THAT I like to hear. I think I could live with that.

'Once Everton has touched you...' and all that.

That is certainly brilliant news to this Old Evertonian!

I can't speak for others, but personally I watch just about every game on my computer, and I have a dual screen set up. So I can watch on one screen while quickly glancing over to the other screen which has the live forum on it. So I believe I miss very little, if anything at all.

You'll also notice the majority of the comments come when the ball is out of play, when there is a sub, when there is an injury, etc. In short, when there is a break in play. Almost all of the other comments are very succinct. “Nice tackle Tom!” “Well done Dom”. Things of that ilk.

Furthermore, I am dazzled by Carlo's son-in-law's quick absorption of the Scouse linguistic variant. He understood your accent!

I must say, however, I'd be horrified to see DCL in the lineup on Sunday. The risk massively outweighs the benefit. Especially against Fulham.

Jamie #355, the Forum is like a commune without the hashish to mellow things out. More like an online cult with steroids. Y'know, "roid rage".

John #382, excellent. I had the same thought.

Mr. Brewer, wonderful summary. You did have some great comments on the Forum too, as usual.

I don't think there was one bad or spawny goal amongst the 9 - probably the least impressive was the penalty, but only because there isn't much chance for anyone but the goalkeeper to really shine.

Both midfields had excllent performers, Sanchez, Ndombele and Lamela all had good games, while Davies, Doucoure (is he actually human?) and Sigurdsson were terrific.

With the exception of Everton's first goal (and the power of DCL's shot certainly had a lot to do with it), I doubt that either goalkeeper could have done much better.

The game was a credit to both sides, both managers (judging by Mourhino's face rather than his words, I think he loved it), both clubs and the English top flight.

PS I was on the Forum for only a few minutes and didn't see any abuse, but I don't think anything said in the midst of that match should be taken seriously.

PPS And on the subject of Ancelotti. In evolutionary biology there is a "Ha ha only serious" saying known as Orgel's Second Law which goes "Evolution is smarter than you are." - If I may be immodest I'd like to adapt it perhaps as "Brewer's First Law" and we should remember it when we criticise the introduction of "Past-it Coleman" or "Brings nothing to the team Bernard", "Championship at best Calvert-Lewin" or "Shit Tom Davies". It goes: 'Carlo is smarter than you are'.

I have stopped having either low or high expectations, stopped predicting what I think will happen with certain line-ups and just sit back and see what happens.

I suppose when you go back to Coleman, the squad has been assembled by Moyes, Martinez, Koeman, Silva, Allardyce and Ancelotti. Six managers, hence why we cannot predict what is going to be served up, maybe!!??

However, after just over a year into his reign, Ancelotti has Everton going in the right direction. He has improved players like Lewin, Davies and Sigurdsson even, and has at least give us weirdly pleasant match-day experiences - well, more often than previous.

I'd like to see Holgate get back to his pre-injury form though. He was the number 1 centre back then.

Normally I would say that if you play more attacking, you risk conceding more because you open up more. I think that is, in the main, a fair and logical statement for most teams. Only the very best can smash teams without conceding many goals. It's the risk you take to go and win the game vice keeping it tight and nicking it.

But agree, last night that wasn't necessarily the case as we mostly succumbed to set pieces rather than open play, despite the possession and pressure from Tottenham. Unusual because we have actually been showing confidence and ability in defending corners and free kicks of late.

So, I'll agree that last night that some of the goals were preventable but have to disagree with the statement that all goals are preventable. That's a debate I often have with my brother who believes that and a few of us discussed it when defending Olsen after the United match. If all goals were preventable, we'd be watching 0-0s every week.

Look forward to it mate.

Up the toffees 👍

Looking back it was a great game but I admit that I couldn't get comfortable or excited watching live because I was so worried and frustrated by the mistakes which is unlike me.

I wanted a goal back before half time, we got 3 and I was still expecting it to go to extra time and penalties from about the 40th minute.

Bernards goal was a worthy winning goal. Well done that man for being positive and shooting. Siggy great skill, awareness and vision to play the ball.

Disappointed we got bullied at corners, but at least we avoided giving away any penalties.

Into the next round, thats all that matters.

I said I won't go overboard, but Godfrey, had to deal with Tottenham's two best players imo, both of whom were very skillful and also very direct. Bergwin, I was delighted when he went off, and Son, is just a delight to watch, and I don't think we had another player in our ranks who could have dealt with these two all night, so credit to Ancellotti, for playing Godfrey right back, which is not something I'd agreed with when I first saw the team sheet.

Tottenham probably have a better squad, and also some very good players, but I loved some of the football Everton played last night, which was definitely more effective than the easy on the eye stuff Spurs created imo, once the first twenty minutes had gone?

I just want to give my honest view and always strive to find where we can do better. Hype kills the joy in the end mate we were never like that until social media came along.

I am proud this season overall and i'll be honest, I have got more than I expected and don't think I will take a lot of disappointment until the end now.

This squad has give its all this season whether that be defending hard or putting more press in the forward positions. Last nights clinical finishing showed signs of a team that is evolving.

I'll be checking over the small details in the hope my energy helps keep that up with no offence intended. 👍

Thomas, stay well mate. COYB

Apart from their cup win in the seventies at Goodison, Fulham's last win at the old Lady was around 1920.

Each year I think they are going to end that run and each year, we turn them over at Goodison.

So as regards to fixtures, this is one game I fully expect Everton not to shoot themselves in the foot.

Chill out and do not panic, Fulham will not be returning to London with three points.

Yes, there were times when we were ahead last night but we were still pushing 4, 5, 6 men to their last third of the pitch.

Tottenham certainly were more dominant in possession and had more shots etc.

But we were definitely more decisive and effective in what we done. We managed the game very well and despite them having depth of squad, more of the ball and throwing their bench at us, I genuinely never felt overwhelmed.

That's not an "after the Lord Mayors party" statement nor is it dismissing our need for depth, but just how it felt watching it last night.

Shows how close we are without yet having the strength in depth.

We've actually won our previous 14 home games in the League against them. Quite a run which I'm fairly certain we have never equalled against any other team.

Don't want to jinx it but hey it's Everton.

I was at the Cup game in 75 in the Lower Bullens when Vic Busby knocked us out. One of my first memories of bitter disappointment.

That never say die attitude has evaded us for years. Especially against such dangerous opposition.

At 3-2 I was gutted. Sat thinking oh dear the same old same old is coming, 3-3 had me thinking we had become frightened but we kept going at them and it paid off again.

At 4-4 with Spurs having a couple of Everton boogie men on the pitch and more goalscorers than us, I was sat there wondering if we could go again?

I walked out of the room and came back to 5-4 Everton. I was buzzing mate. Proud for the first time in ages about our hunger. Something about the teams body language all the way through, stopped me short of thinking this is over for us.

Sigurdsson is a player I have always admired for his professionalism more than ability. His fitness levels are superb and I was looking at him and Doucoure thinking, yes lads, you look like you could do another 12 rounds.

Ball number 6 tonight Brent, lets hope its a lucky number.

I shouted at Bernard through the telly fifteen seconds before he scored, to have more belief, and although I'd give my own motm to Doucoure, but because I don't think Tom Davies, has got a big head, (I've met him, he definitely hasn't) I'd say his performance had little bits of my favourite ever Everton player, (Reid) which is a big and bold shout, but after the stick this kid has taken, those bold shouts, might just do wonders for his confidence!

We are all enjoying the moment as we are in a good spot. Season isn't over yet but we are well placed to challenge rather than survive or be also rans. It's in our hands.

I recall Keane being in their last third in open play, think it was after our 5th goal.

Be honest mate.
I was screaming at the telly telling him to get back in.

What do I know 😁

His goal at Wolves is exactly what he should be and he comes across like he can't be bothered.

That was a great goal that night, busting a gut to follow his own pass and making sure he was available to shoot.

Where is that man? That hunger? Its easier said than done of course but the desire has to be there for every game.

Danny 399 i am enjoying it too mate but totally avoiding hype. Quick example Fellaini v Man City a few seasons back. That was a midfield performance. One we all remember.

He dominated an expensive opposition and we he got better as an Everton player throughout his stay. Thats the kind of level we need to compete up the top end.

When the current players put that level in i'll be there praising it. These lads are competing with the best now and doing it well. More dominant performances will take us to the next level.

I hope these lads can keep stepping up.

The Ancelotti connection?

Thank you for the information.

Sort of player who would shoulder the responsibility to keep Salah quiet.

I'd be lying if I said I saw that coming ! This match deserved a crowd.

For me this was a better game than the 4-4 game against Liverpool all those years ago. It was Ali/Frazier. McEnroe/Borg.. Thistlecrack/Many clouds (Try watching that one without crying)..It was Sport the way it was meant to be. Spiritually uplifting... Nothing was left on the field of battle.

It would be unrealistic to expect a classic on a regular basis. But there is room for many more minor classics.

I would like to say thank you to Spurs too. It takes two to tango, but I want to focus on us.

Our manager AND our players showed us they are capable of serving up entertainment of the very highest order and I loved it.

We`re like that brand new dance - The locomotion. Everybody is talking about us today

More please.

I have doubted him as in i'm still not convinced he can play high level football as a main midfielder?

I think its been about the physical side with Davies and whether he could go through the gears? Hes fully grown now and at an age where he needs to keep his levels up.

Can he start driving through teams once his game comes together? Is he fleet footed enough to be like a Kante? Its still hard to see what type of player he can be on top form.

True that Darren Hind, the amount of lads on site that told me the game was great last night has never happened before.

Iwobi, he is inconsistent, but I don't think he is an enigma: skilful, but just inconsistent. He does make a great Right wing back though. Also, it would be interesting to see him as a winger with a regular right back behind him. He's not really had that!

Sometimes I think thats all it takes. I'd love to have pulled Barkey to one side and put more fire in him. Sounds mad but I think some players need a pint with a fan or a Peter Reid to ask questions of their hunger.

Iwobi is blessed with natural skill and balance but hes got less direction than Peter Beagrie. And his motorbike for that matter.

Arm around the shoulder has surely happened in his career so I am now doubting his mental ability?

He had built up some rhythm culminating in his fine performance against Wolves and then it was broken.

But unfortunately next year is the Ox. Last year was the Rat

I see a talent in there somewhere. But he is so erratic and as I've said previously, so unpredictable. We don't know what is coming next, let alone the opposition.

To unlock the talent and potential, that has to come from within. Both in terms of mentality but more importantly from what I see, the desire. I know both are linked.

I witness a very casual and laid back individual who is without doubt a popular team member and great lad. But he needs to want it more if he is to realise the clear potential.

So, too casual in many ways, lacking the desire and fire in his belly that would go some way to unlocking the potential. But I think what you touch on is key; confidence and belief in that ability. That is why he comes across as casual but not relaxed.

Therefore, doing the maths (and I'm no mathematician), desire + belief = a much improved Iwobi!!

As you say, it's about getting into his head.

It's hard to believe but maybe (maybe) Carlo is building a team here

I've said this before but being at Wembley in 1984 to see Everton lift a trophy for the first time in my life was magical.

I can still see my father on the footage trying to scale the fence at the end to get onto the Wembley track. I remember being just behind wondering how the hell I get home if he succeeds. But at the same time, not caring too much!!

You wouldn't have known that by the commentary alone, or a lot of the write-ups. The commentary I was watching even tried to make out the keeper should have saved Richarlison's second – and that was Matt Jackson!!!!!

I think what we are seeing now is Carlo first telling Calvert-Lewin to get in the box and take one touch instead of three, in the last week or so, he has done the same with Tom Davies, one touch instead of trying to take two or three players on.

What we are seeing now is a player that used to run down blind alleys, now looking to play a pass.

Fair to say Siggy and Gomes have also upped their game.

Whether you like Carlo or not, he is certainly getting across how players can improve.

Give this guy a few years and I have no doubt we will be a force to be reckoned with.

See it, play it. The first pass is usually the best one because that is what the instinct tells you. Keep the one thing the other team wants for too long and you become the target.

Obviously there is a balance because you don't want to treat the ball like a hot potato and just kick it for the sake of "getting rid". But, usually that's what good players and midfielders in particular will see and do.

And the really good ones have that magician like ability to slow the game down in their head to pick out the right pass. But again, normal done with minimal touches as necessary.

If only there was a crowd in the Old Lady, last night, and it was normal times.

It would have been one hell of a celebration by Evertonians.

Hopefully plenty more good days an£ nights to come this season.

Let's see who's available for Sunday v Fulham.

It should be made into a movie. No screenplay, no commentary just a title and action.

on another note, the game last night went to nearly 11pm on a midweek night, Sky and BT just ruining the game season after season. 8.15pm kivk off is ridiculous for a cup tie with potential of extra time. And our name game is 7pm on a Sunday night, can we please have a 3pm Saturday kick off. And don't get me started on Cup Final at 5.15pm.

Sooner play em now like rather than the final.

As said above, in this competition you have to win every game.

In 95, we had to overcome a then very powerful Newcastle and went into the semi final against Spurs as underdogs.

In 2009 we had to get past Liverpool and Manchester United to get to the final.

Everton are suited to doing it the hard way!

Thanks mate

I need to say there were players playing superb for us like Davies and Godfrey but I was very disappointed with our goalie.

Although he made saves he was expected he is inferier to Pickford in his kicking and handling of the ball.

Never though I would say it but bring back Pickford.

A few things I just can't get over.

The pass from Gilfy to Bernard for the winner was just sublime.

The effort Bernard put in was superb. This is a guy who we just tried to offload. He's not pouted, you've not heard a single negative word or thing about him, he's just put his head down and gotten to it. When he scored, he slid on his knees in the corner, turned around to hug teammates, and yelled, "FUCK YA!" Can you ask for anything more from his attitude? Brilliant.

Seamus Coleman was fantastic. I just can't understand how anyone can say a negative word about the man. Over the hill? Age wins in the end and we all grow old. But that looked like a 25 year old Seamus out there last night. He ran his socks off. When he came on for DCL, I can't believe any Blue wasn't like, "what attacking threat will he offer? Sub him for Calvert-Lewin? That's us fucked, we won't score." That's what I thought in an honest moment, and shame on me! Seamus was our attack down the right from the minute he came on the field. He changed the game for the better, offensively. What a fantastic game he had. He is, for me, an absolute legend. Every single player from here till death takes me, that dons an Everton jersey, should be compared to Seamus when it comes to effort. Match Seamus' effort, and you'll do just fine wearing the Royal Blue.

I'm still buzzing, and will probably watch the highlights 4-5 more times. Why not?

What a game. I honestly feel fortunate to have seen what I saw last night. It really was one of the best adverts for football I've ever seen. A real blessing to have watched that.

Harry Scott fought 5 world champions in all, and without checking the records, I think he beat Rubin Carter too!