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Then the the light should have been flashing when the linesman took an eternity to put the flag up for offside and I wonder if this affected Coleman or is it that coming to the twilight of his career he still doesn't understand the offside rule. He should have let the Leicester man go but no he had to play him onside then stand 10 paces directly behind Mina before running into him.

Fortunately we got a second but I was wondering if Holgate had anticipated the ball going there or if he had just again moved away from the play.

Whatever, Frank needs to get up Gordon during the break and tell him to get in the game as he looks almost disinterested and Gray is wandering around like it's a practice session. And the midfiel or somebody must find a way to stop their midfield running through our lines into as much space as they want.

So far, so good the score.

Come on Blues!

Iwobi my MOTM. That guy just keeps on going - couldn't have imagined he'd ever be a cult hero.

Massive effort from Richarlison too. Pickford excellent. We were good across the board. And another big tick for our support. Just incredible.

The maths is starting to turn in our favour. From being a side that suddenly needed to massively improve their form to get maybe 10 points from 6 games, we now probably need 4 from 4 with the most attractive part of that run in over the next 3 games.

No let up now blues. The job's not done yet.

Still, the right score and move up the ladder but we still need more. Not pretty but pretty effective.

Obviously Pickford was the man again, another stunning performance. But would like to give some credit to Delph who kept us afloat in the middle of the park especially in the first half.

It's been an incredibly stressful and trying time so to watch that today felt very sweet indeed. Roll on Wednesday.

Special mention to the support - like a home game, absolutely fucking magnificent. One thing though, make sure that piece of coal is safe.

Another 3pts and great weekend so far.

Rest, the reset and go again at Watford - let's finish what we have started

UTFT!

We win two in a row against 2 good teams and not surprisingly Frank started the same team as last week.

Everton can get a maximum 47 points and Leeds only 43 so it's looking a lot better now.

All credit first to the Manager who has dealt with th massive pressure, and the ridicule he was getting (from outside the club). He was being written off, and pundits scandalously saying how 'with Benitez, Everton weren't in the relegation places' as if Everton's issues were of Lampard's doing.

After some initial nativity, he has learned how to get the best out of this set of players.

Pickford is like a man possessed. A legend. The saves and the games management tactics giving us the edge and defeating opponents spirit.

A good performance today,with a few ripples of both good play and dodgy organisation, but we deserved the win and I was generally confident we'd get it even when Leicester dominated possession.

Iwobi for me was excellent. His touch and composure when winning the ball, over and over. Excellent again.

And Keane too did brilliant when he came on. Well done.

And Myko what a way to get your first goal. What a goal. Congratulations that man.

3 winnable matches before the last game of the season. Let's fucking do this. Let's aim to take over Southampton, and then for 14th or even 13th. What a great feeling that would be.

Got to hope Myko injury is minor, because we looked vulnerable when he went off. Too many crosses from that side.

Go all out to win now at Watford, and use the squad a bit….

Our away support is unbelievable. Sounded like a home game on the DAZN broadcast, well done drowning out those clackers. Take a bow, every one of you. I'll be singing Spirit of the Blues all day 💙

Massive result, and not just in the immediate context of the table. We've been terrible all season at building any sort of momentum on the back of a big win, so to go on the road and get the job done was absolutely huge.

It has been fuelled by the media's desperation to have the big story of Everton getting relegated. Sorry to disappoint you!

There is also a real connection between Lampard and supporters that I have not seen with an Everton manager in a very long-time.

Iwobi and Pickford MOTM for me, though I don't think anyone let us down.

I love the way we've discovered that being the best fans in the country makes us feel better, and makes the team play better. Evertonians have always been a bit special, but these last few weeks I've never felt prouder to have been chosen.

Can't wait for next Sunday. Like the song says, football's coming home.

What's been achieved by the Everton manager, his coaches and the players the last few weeks, is incredible.

But the desire and heart has been born from the best football supporters in the country, and without doubt, Evertonians have made the most significant difference to the fortunes of Everton FC.

Goodison Park, was on tour today in Leicester.

Let's keep the spirit and form and do the same at Watford.

Keeping the good form and momentum will help strengthen the resolve of the squad for preseason.

But now to get 3 points at Watford.

UTFT!

Link

Pickford motm excellent match winning saves again.

Richarlison and Gordon left it all out on the pitch, great fighting for the cause.

Credit to the whole team for holding strong, especially after the defensive cock up and then losing Yerry and also Mykolenko. Keane and JJK did well in difficult circumstances.

Another great day to follow up from beating Chelsea. No complacency allowed, onwards and upwards.

Frank has performed a miracle with this player.

Frank set up the same as the two previous games, but Leciester where afforded too much space, by Everton's defensive players who where anything but tidy in their play.

It really did take the Everton.12th Man to get them through.

We go again on Wednesday, another winnable game, we can do this blues - bring it on!

UTFT

The most important thing now is the Watford game, same application, same determination and another 3 points on the board as soon as possible.

Hopefully Lampard's pre game planning will include a watch of the Goodison game just to remind them that they owe us big time for a horror show!

We need to ensure survival before Arsenal away as they may still be going all out for a CL spot

Firstly, he saved us in the 2nd minute with an excellent clearance off the line and then excellent clearance from resulting corner which really could have changed the game.

The mix up in defence, imo, was Coleman's mistake primarily.

Then we went off. The referee, as they are obligated to do when it comes to head injuries, called for the doctor to come on and assess him. Mina was saying he was fine, but clearly the call was made by the doctor. Was he seeing double? Was his vision blurred? We don't know. But with all that has come out recently on the impact of head injuries and the links to dementia in former footballers (something like 7 of the 11 English world cup winning players suffered or suffer from the disease). Calling players shithouses and such for it seems a little bit twatish.

Leeds will now have Ayling suspended and he has been a mainstay in their defence so they could be for the drop now.

We're on a good run now because he's got the side well motivated, compact defensively and working very hard.

If you do that you've got a chance in every game you play.

I believe he has matured through adversity and will be a much better manager for it.

Just need to make sure we address the (on paper) easier looking games with the right attitude and tactics.

These are the sorts of games where we might need Alli or the lesser spotted El Ghazi to conjure something up with their technical ability.

But it's been a brilliant weekend of results which really couldn't have gone better. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant.

The victories over Man United, Chelsea and Leicester have been achieved with a third or less possession, a compact shape, defending deep and of course some superlative goal keeping. That will do for the rest of this season and indeed until we can add more quality to our attacking play.

Big shout out to Mykolenko who is fast becoming a bit of a favourite of mine. He's learning fast and boy did he come into a baptism of fire. I for one applauded this business done by the club i.e. made a profit on a player (Digne) and replaced him for a cheaper one with high potential. Myko is going to be dynamite next season, along with Patterson in my opinion.

I thought Delph looked assured and classy, nothing fancy but effective. I find it massively ironic that the stars of our potential great escape could be Iwobi, Pickford, Delph. We just need Rondon to pop up with a last minute winner to secure survival!

Still a small mountain to climb but we have momentum. COYB!

"They pushed the players and that is why we celebrate with them at the end, nothing's done so I went back out there at the end because they don't want to go home, they want to stay here and have a party.”

He developed them further, working with the players in training and managed to outplay Chelsea. Everton today even with a ropey defence where worth their win. They did not play as well as against Liverpool and Chelsea, giving more space, but looked more a attacking threat. He was more effective with his Subs today.

Frank will be glad to see the Summer to develop better football, with better players.

He developed them further, working with the players in training and managed to outplay Chelsea. Everton today even with a ropey defence where worth their win. They did not play as well as against Liverpool and Chelsea, giving more space, but looked more a attacking threat. He was more effective with his Subs today.

Frank will be glad to see the Summer to develop better football, with better players.

He developed them further, working with the players in training and managed to outplay Chelsea. Everton today even with a ropey defence where worth their win. They did not play as well as against Liverpool and Chelsea, giving more space, but looked more a attacking threat. He was more effective with his Subs today.

Frank will be glad to see the Summer to develop better football, with better players.

9/10 to everyone except Pickford, who gets a 9.5.

And a 10 to the the travelling fans. Simply magnificent.

9/10 to everyone except Pickford, who gets a 9.5.

And a 10 to the the travelling fans. Simply magnificent.

When you look at his record - games where he played 90 minutes
18-19 9 of 10 starts, 19-20 24 of 25 starts, 20-21 20 of 23 starts
21-22 8 of 11 starts. I am sure this has not gone unnoticed at FF and offers may be sought.

We were superb in terms of commitment today but the second half was very frustrating. We had so many opportunities to create a clear cut chance and failed to capitalise that I was sure it would come back to haunt us. Thankfully it didn't.

I've got a feeling Leeds, with home advantage, will get points from Chelsea and Brighton so we need Spurs to hammer Burnley next Sunday. If we take 4 points from our next 2 games then we'll be alright.

Probably.

To day in Canada it is mothers day, watching the game our daughter came around with 2 of our granddaughters and 3 great grandsons, so had to go outside with them came back in, Everton had scored, so I stayed outside with the kids thinking if I go back in and watch Leicester may score, they didn't, so I think it will be better if I don't watch. Got it on tape so will watch it later.

Congratulations to the manager and players and a big THANK YOU. to those supporters who have shown the club, they don't believe in defeat,

As for my fellow Blues... simply magnificent yet again!

COYB

Did Mina chicken out of that game once we conceded? As he seemed to a few games ago? Keane stepped up and did us proud. Tremendous saves from Pickford, that first one just breathtaking.

Frank really has brought the team and the fans together and deserves huge credit. We still have plenty to do but what a fantastic weekend.

Altogether now “when you hear a copper shout hey, put that candle out'”

And for the first time this season, Peter, when Leicester drew level I didn't for one moment think the game was gone.

And for the first time this season, Peter, when Leicester drew level I didn't for one moment think the game was gone.

Is this the first time that Delph has managed 3 consecutive games for us?

I love how Frank gets us but without sounding negative and the players excuse to hide behind Raffa, I do wonder how many more points we would have picked up, had we put all our effort towards getting right behind the team, like the last few weeks, making Goodison like that all season, than solely focusing on Raffa.

I can hold my hands up and say I never gave Raffa the support anywhere near the support I'm giving Frank, cannot fault the away support, been brilliant all season, but at Goodison, apart from the Arsenal game, Raffa never got the fans singing or backing from us, we were too quick to judge him on his past.

Only when we have been staring at the unthinkable, have we re-awoken the old lady once more.

These players now have no one to hide behind, the fans are injecting confidence in them, we are starting to get the results, we can put all this down to Lampard, but for me the supporters have made the difference.

We need to continue this fantastic backing, next season could be our final season at the old lady, let's give her the send off she deserves, from game one, right the way through, to the end of the season.

Keep the same passion, discipline and focus, and win this game.

Time will tell, but in hope, belief, pride and nostalgia, may be there's a stir in the stars, and like the back end of 1983, from belief, and fight, Everton started to get an identity on the park.

Hopefully this is happening again.

Overall a marvellous weekend all in, results wise, and let's hope for the same this week. The next game counts.

“Whats Our Name?”

UTFT!

Agree with everything you say, but -

Rafa wasn't good to the supporters, came from 'them', and did nothing to truly reach out to Evertonians.

Frank has lauded the fans since day one, gets us, and speaks all the right things while completely recognizing the fans.

So for me yes the fans are absolutely brilliant. But you have to give kudos to Frank, while recognizing the fan base was neutered by and under Rafa.

But blah, blah, blah. No reason to dwell in the past while we are clearly moving forward.

I KNOW this is way too soon, but I want another two wins to stay up as I'm salivating at the prospects of an entire season under Frank and a team in his image. We won't be challenging for CL or anything like that, but I'm betting the progress will be very noticeable and real. The future is exciting in my opinion.

If we stay up, which we really should now thank God!

“Marching down the Goodison Road, all the windows open wide, when you hear the coppers shout, Oi,, put the candles out, we are the Goodison gang”

Spirit of the Blues was just belted out all match, and a good fifteen minutes after the final whistle. Truly fantastic, unbelievable support!!

Rob, I usually disappear as soon as the final whistle goes at away matches (especially this season, losing all the bleedin' time) but stayed on at the end. If you could bottle that emotion...

Could winning a title feel any better?!

Immense and as you rightfully say, the power of Evertonians, has transformed this team, and through adversity, has turned around the negativity. Many of the Media Circus, would love to see the demise of EFC.

As Alan Ball and Brian Labone, said so many years, ago, Everton, once it touches you, life is never the same.

“Born a Blue, Live a Blue, Die a Blue!” FTRS!

I feel similar vibes to 1983, let's get the points secured, and then, use this end of season, as the catalyst, to rebuild and go forward as a club, next season.

“Whats Our Name?”

UTFT!

No. They grew louder and stronger as the challenge became greater. They dragged the club from the depths of despair, they took to the streets and filled the air with their songs and blue smoke from their flares.

They lifted the team upon their shoulders. They stared relegation square in the eye and cried "not today!"

"Best fans in the world" is a title often awarded without so much substance to back it up. Well in the past couple of weeks, that title has well and truly been earned.

If, come May 22nd, we have managed to avoid the drop, it will be down to each and every one of you who simply refused to allow it to happen.

We're going through something a bit special at the moment. The club reconnecting with the fans. It's just a shame we had to be in the relegation spots when it happened.

One step at a time. Let's get out of this mess first - we're still only a point away from relegation. Then starting thinking about how 'never again' really means it this time.

I'm made up for you today, and for Brent, and so many others who have supported us week after week.

Everton are transcending the Media negativity, and soon the Blue Dawn, of Everton FC, will smother his ilk out.

We don't care about the RS, Everton FC, is all that matters.

“Whats Our Name?”

UTFT!

It can't be argued that Frank was a very successful player himself, albeit with West Ham, but mostly Chelsea, but I think he is realising what Everton is all about, and gets it too. I like the guy and just hope he is the New Messiah. Just get rid of Herod next, and we be on the way to the Promised Land.

If that will upset the present favourites, and Sky, bring it on, the quicker the better !

Thinking about Jurgen Klopp at the same time. He's a great manager, small g", but class ? Hmm.
Classy when things go his way but becomes a wingy kopite when he dosnt get his way.

No sooner was I thinking this when I read his assessment of Spurs in their 1-1 game. Endlessly winey. What were Spurs supposed to do ? Come and play expansive elegant football, and lose? Oh, that's exactly what they were supposed to do. Tosser.

I think there were people on here and on the match forum who were saying that Frank wasn't a good enough m,anager and needed the push. Hopefully they've changed their mind now. I think there have been sectors of our support, only too quick to say a manager isn't good enough but after less than a dozen games?
We've got a young manager with a decent team working with him, and it might take years to get rid of the players who have been like lead weights on our club and build us up in to a better team capable of challenging for a top six place. He reminds me, like he has others, who is "One of Us"
Like Howard come from "Forrin parts", and Bally did, I think, a Cockney, Frank Lampard "gets" this club.
This season isn't over yet and the couple of home games will be monumental ; but whatever happens, I think Frank Lampard will build up a team and a squad. He's already got players pulling their tripes out, like some of them haven't done for years. If we come through this, then we need to back him in the hard times to come, when we possibly have sod all to spend. Whatever happens, we've all seen how us, the supporters can massively influence our own team and I hope we keep it up, not just until we're safe...If we make it of course.
On another topic mentioned, a get together down at the Bramley Moore or whetrever, sounds an excellent idea.

Glad to see Lampard learn quick to protect the lead rather than keep chasing another goal when our defence is susceptible to counter-attack. I know if it's not Pickford we might have lost the game. But that's what we've counted on.

Pickford's current form reminded me the time when Martyn was in goal. As long as the shot is from outside the box, he would keep it out. COYB!

My only disappointment was that in all the camera angles, I couldn't spot you. I kept winding back my DVR in hopes of spotting that towering figure, but the cameras seemed to be drawn to fat old guys and pretty young girls, so I missed ya, pal.

Spirit of the Blues, indeed!!!!!!!

Hope all is well mate. Christy, Jamie, Nicholas, Neil and others. Thanks for the well wishes this weekend. Thankfully it was a GREAT weekend regarding all things football. We won, everyone else lost including the RS. Had a great phone call chat before the game with Derek Knox too. I was so overjoyed today that my typical half empty glass is now in danger of spilling over and I even found myself scouring YouTube for Everton games from the good old days. Think Scrooge Christmas morning for my change in mood. All of a sudden I'm not just optimistic about survival but hopeful about much greater goals.

Lastly, Brent, Rob, Danny. Not sure who went today but watching on TV the 3,000 sounded more like 30,000. Someone (maybe Danny O'Neill?) challenged the fans to replicate the Chelsea game atmosphere at Leicester. I almost made a smart ass comment about how that would be impossible but our 3,000 thankfully made me look very foolish today as somehow they pulled that off. Well done. As Frank said you played your part in the win.

The narrative two months ago was:

Go to Goodison, get an early lead, and the fans will turn on the team. The Everton fans are toxic. Evertonians will eventually bring the team down when the team is not on their game.

That was the narrative. The gospel truth we were told. And it really was damn close to the truth!

So what changed that dynamic? How did we go from certifiably toxic to the best fans on earth, pulling our team up and willing them to victory? 11 vs 11 plus 40,000?

Frank did that. He exorcized the previous demons, got behind the fans, understood the Club, waxed lyrical about the fans, etc. And the fans responded.

You show me a manager or set of them that don't "get" the team, don't understand what Evertonians want, don't respect them, and don't try to see them as a KEY component of the Club - a Club that functions properly with everyone pulling in the same direction, and I'll show you toxicity.

You show me someone who gets "it" / Everton, loves the fans, sees them as integral to the success process, speaks to the fans respectfully, and tells the players to play for those fans, and I'll show you Frank Lampard.

Then I'll post umpteen videos on YouTube of those fans- Evertonians - singing their hearts out because someone "gets" them and the Club they love dearly.

Frank Lampard, in like six to eight weeks, has turned the narrative upside down. From toxicity to "greatest fans in the world, willing their Club out of the relegation zone."

I can't overstate enough what a remarkable feat that is! It's a near miracle and something incredibly difficult to do. There's been a complete culture flip in like two months!

So to all those people who might bemoan Frank's tactics, substitutions, or anything Frank is doing, ponder that narrative flip for a bit genuinely - and I mean really think about the enormity of that narrative flip - and tell me you're not impressed!

It's shocking what Lampard has done in so little time, with the landscape he inherited. Shocking.

Those pushing the Should have stuck with Rafa narrative must have been on the wind up. His record for Everton ended up being a win % in the low 30's, Frank having inherited an utter shit show has got as many wind in 5 less games. But more importantly the team looks committed now. Even in the derby loss you could be proud of the efforts.

Tense match yesterday. Never felt comfortable, and getting more goals from across the team is important going forward.

At the end of the day, what makes a football manager? It's not like signing a striker who either has physical attributes or they don't - a manager is a leader who needs personal qualities to go with their footballing acumen. Then you back them with time, support, funds etc.

Frank seems to have the leadership skills - he's aligned the most fractured version of the club I can remember. Everyone did their bit - but he did it from the accountable position. He knows what it takes at the highest level.

What's not to like?

Now finish this season's job and get on with the next bit.

Sitting 16th and feeling more positive about this club than I have in a while.

I was laughing today to see Watford relegated and know it all Ben Foster who slated the Everton fans blaming all his teammates.

I think Frank aside from tactics and management skills has three things in his favor. 1. His parents, grandparents grew up in the East End. Working class, hard working folks on limited means, close community with a love for their local club West Ham. Different city similar dynamic at Everton. Secondly he has passion. That was the one thing fans loved about Big Dunc as he shared our emotions. Thirdly he is a winner. Now I know what you're thinking, but some of us — I'm 45 and can remember a time when I EXPECTED Everton to win the league. There are many a generation or two older than me still around who hold similar views and we try to pass on that belief to our kids and Grand kids. Will it all all end well? Who knows but I bloody well hope so and despite our dire league placing and finances feel more optimistic than I have since that 3-0 win over Arsenal under RM that briefly last looked like it might get us in the champions league

One is natural leadership. There are certain men other men follow. Frank was that at Chelsea. He was never the best player on the pitch or even close to it, but he was the guy everybody else on that club naturally looked to when the shit was extra thick.

The other is work ethic. I recently read "Journeyman" by Ben Smith, a onetime Arsenal academy player who wrote a startlingly honest memoir of knocking around the lower leagues for a decade. He trained with Lampard as a youth and wrote that he never stood out for his natural talent -- but did stand out for his enthusiastic attitude towards training.

Now, through his natural leadership, he has successfully incorporated that work ethic into the squad. May he long continue to do so.

And whatever you're dealing with, may you continue to feel much, much, much better!

Cheers and don't worry I plan on sticking around for a while. I can't disagree with what you added about Lampard. I feel this fellow has a bit of magic about him be it will or skill. I always respected him as a player and he's pretty quickly made a mockery of the idea he's a tactically naive coach.

Makes me chuckle that two weeks ago Ian Edwards was demanding he be sacked and replaced with Sean Dyche. Almost as funny as the fact that his partner in crime arch Carlo critic now limits himself to posting a single pro Holgate live forum post per game. Today he piped up with a rant about how Mina was to blame for the collision leading to Leicesters goal as opposed to Holgate and missed the fact Holgate wasn't involved at all - it was Coleman.

Ps Jeff Armstrong who often makes decent points declared a week ago that Everton's relegation was confirmed when we lost at home to Watford! Come on Jeff I am a sky is falling type and even I thought that post was silly

Lovely strike from Mykolenko to compliment his continuous improvement of recent weeks. It was really good technique. He didn't smash it, just put it towards the goal in the corner, using the pace of the cross. A pin point "pass" from Iwobi to pick him out or a mis-hit cross that was supposed to find Richarlison at the far post? Who cares, I'll vote for the pass. Great spot!!

Shocking defending for their equaliser. For me, Coleman has to take control of the situation. He could have shouted for Mina to leave it, but I think he's got to leave Mina to that and back off 5 yards to cover any 2nd ball. Basics really and they should not be going for the same ball either way.

But anyway, we got the points, although once again, Jordan Pickford made a few ridiculous saves.

Amazing scenes of the supporters long after the end of the match, now all over the internet. No other club.

I hope those crutches being punched in the air to the endless rendition of Spirit of the Blues were still with the owner or at least found him before he needed to leave the ground.

Fortunately Everton has proved a steep learning curve for Frank. His team on the training groud have proved able. The Anfield game was the turning point. Frank came of age playing the right defensive formation, which should of resulted in a draw, given the robbed penalty. . The work and preparation that had gone into that continue prior to the Chelsea result. Though the same formation was still there in the Leciester game, there was a return to a more open attacking style of football, which proved the on doing of Leciester. This all combined with unprecedented Evertonian supporters has dragged Everton's under performing players through a relegation dogfight and will continue to do so.

Lampard reign has started in the troes of relegation. It will continue as a battle through the Summer to establish his philosophy on the football going forward, against the backdrop of players pass their sell by date and other players not wanting to join them. Additionally is a Club run by muppets to contend with.

Being a young Manager time is on Franks side as the Muppets age, but next season will be equally challenging. Frank will continue to learn and progress bolstered by Evertonians who always believed in him and where perpared to help him through the rough patches, of which there will be many.

Glad I'm not the only cynic who thought Iwobi sliced that pass to Richarlison. But what a strike from Mykolenko. Difficult enough on a technical level to pull off in training much less an EPL game. Even if there was no war it's difficult enough to drop into the EPL from Ukraine mid season into a relegation battle. I've been very impressed with this young fellow. With a good pre season under his belt he could be a key man next year.

Dave # 66 - "but the one who will never let you down had a big hand in it today". I am guessing you are referring to the South American Scouser who loves us. They kick hell out of him every game but he just gets up and keeps going. If it was up to me I would give him a pair of white boots.

What troubles me about Weds is that we step up against the stiffer opposition - City, RS, Chelsea, Arsenal, ManU etc - and a sort of complacency sets in against the weaker opposition - Burnley, Norwich, Watford etc. I think Frank has gone a long way to stopping this but we need to approach the Watford game like we have against Chelsea and Leics.

Win on Weds and I will start sleeping better.

If we win our games in hand we are 2 points behind Newcastle, after Eddie Howe spent 93 million In January and was hailed as a managerial genius.

Frank has got this club pointing in the right direction.

I demand and expect three points at relegated Watford. Okay, it's not a given but if we show the same attitude as of late we will win.

Side issues are vengeance for that dismal game at Goodison, and putting the boot in on an annoying little club who claim Z Cars as there own.

On another note this " marching down Goodison Rd with coppers and candles stuff " Whats the tune ?

I could see in his demeanor after each game that it was getting to him. Can anyone imagine trying to get a tune out of these players who had constantly let us all down and even the last two games we have relied on Pickford's heroic displays to pull us through when the ball has fell to the opposition in areas we should be controlling. We gave so much space to Leicester yesterday, I was just waiting for the inevitable but gladly it never came.

Call me cynical but I thought the body language of some of our players yesterday was borderline fragile. Anthony Gordon and Gray looked both looked ragged at times as did Richarlison. They did however keep at it and against a weakened but technically good Leicester team and we did well and even could actually have had another goal or two of our own with a bit more composure.

I think what Lampard has done has been miraculous with these players because they have had us all on a rollercoaster to hell and back. Our future has been very much in the balance due to the piss poor recruitment of players and running of the club but we now have a big chance of salvation in the next few games. Let's hope we keep the mistakes to a bare minimum and get the points needed.

Long term I don't see a place for many of these players in Frank Lampards preferred team but given the dire running of the club and it's consequences he may have little choice to try and keep working miracles with the same bunch next season. Hopefully in the Premiership.

Frank Lampard is a born grafter and winner whose longer term thoughts would be on winning trophies. His intelligence and leadership is exactly what this club need. This has been a very hard lesson in his young managerial career but one that should benefit him in the long run. He now knows the fans are behind him for sure and that's a massive thing to have on your side.

Agree with most points - but particularly the last para. In a session addressing the Oxford Union, which you can find on YouTube, his uncle (and former 'King of the Jungle') Harry Redknapp identifies Frank as the hardest working footballer he has ever encountered (his dad, Frank Snr being the 2nd hardest working).

He certainly has the fans onside which, as you say, will be a massive asset.

By ‘Herod', I take it you are referring to Bill Kenwright?

I wish he would just up sticks and go, but I get the impression he will stick around at least until the doors at BMD open.

Anyhow, Frank is doing a grand job, but we mustn't take Watford for granted.

https://www.facebook.com/evertonsthekendallend/videos/we-are-the-goodison-gang/177996397426229/

It's not a time to cause arguments but to enjoy what is happening at the moment, regarding the support we've all shown in our hour of need I've never ever needed any manager to tell me or show me how to support the Blues, same as any Everton fan it just comes naturally, being doing it since I was seven in more bad times than good, just take it as it comes.

I wanted Frank Lampard to manage Everton not because he was Frank Lampard but for the simple reason I didn't want the one who was being foisted on us by that hooky agent who has Mr. Moshiri's ear, Frank might turn out to be a very good manager for us, let's wait and see there are no guarantees but if we stay up he deserves the chance to carry on.

Magic moments

Mykolenko's volley, wow, that's some serious technique, anyone who's played knows how difficult that is. Pickford has been other worldly in these last two games. He's a keeper that is still young and improving. Just entering his peak years.

I agree for their goal, Coleman has to be either screaming for it or back off.

Some other moments that have stuck were Gordon's determination that won the corner leading to the winning goal. Then Richarlison getting the crucial powerful downward header that created the goal.

Finally Iwobi bringing essential energy into the side. He's improving but he can still, and must, do more. I loved the desire he showed when tracking back a full pelt to catch and smother out a dangerous Leicester attack down their left. He blocked cross and forced a throw in. Such play really contributes to winning the match. Credit to Alex Iwobi and the manager for tapping into his potential.

Oh sorry one more, Delph in the first half under pressure near the Halfway line. Cool as a cucumber, total control of the ball a little turn and he then has time and space to pick a pass to calm things down and give us some possession. A little moment but a touch of class on show there from Delph.

The biggest magic moment was seeing our fans singing and enjoying the win after the game. I am certain that our fans have been the biggest factor in trying to save the club from the black hole of relegation. Massive respect to all who travelled to the game .

Real difference with Kendall nearly getting the sack was the team he put out for the 3rd game of the season (Friday night on the box @ Chelsea) had an average age of under 24 and I a combined cost of less than Bryan Robson. Sunday's team averages over 27. There are too many to clear out while the 84 team was just starting to click.

But we can but dream.

But, we have to give something time and stop the revolving door.

Also, in his short time and under the most difficult of circumstances, Frank has managed to unify the players and the fans. Yes, he made early mistakes, that could yet cost us, but he inherited a dis-functional squad (it still is) and a club almost at war with itself. He has pulled us back from the brink, although that cliff edge is still too close for my liking.

For me the damage, if it happens, was already done when he arrived. And I don't think it was just the style of play he tried and got his fingers burned on. I said dis-functional; on top of that it was a battered squad incredibly low on morale and extremely fragile in mentality. He has had to turn that around as well and get the fans onside. I saw it at West Ham; we lost, but the fans stayed and applauded because they saw effort and commitment. Compare that to Brentford and Norwich, where it went toxic.

See this storm through and let him reset in the summer when the waters will be calmer and Bramley Moore is on the horizon.

Anyway, closer to home, let's see what Wednesday night brings. See a few of you there.

For a young side to take us forward
Pickford (28), Patterson (20), Branthwaite (19), Godfrey (24), Mykolenko (22), Iwobi (26), Calvert-Lewin (25), Richarlison (25), Gordon (21).

Like the look of that but what is missing is the middle of the park.
Yes, we might need short term replacements but that is the serious gap. Having bought a plethora of #10s a few years ago, we have none left and that is Frank and Kevin's main issue - we have had nobody to create goals in 2021/2 and need to solve it for 2022/3

As for his managerial career, it's still very early days, but the last few games have shown some promising signs. If he can bring those same qualities to management then I feel confident that time will reveal a very good manager, and maybe even a great one.

Showing great resolution and fight at present, lets start adding the much needed quality in the summer.

Bit harsh Eddie, Martinez and Silva never learned to be pragmatic during their tenures as manager!

He could have shifted to his new tactics after the 5-0 hammering at Spurs. That game told him exactly what the squad was capable/not capable of. But since that game, his record in the league is W4 D1 L4 - with victories over Newcastle, Man Utd, Chelsea and Leicester. If he had shifted tactics sooner we would be 2-4 points better off (draw v West Ham/win or draw v Burnley?).

Keith Thelwell is making changes to the footballing structure, Lampard and his team seem to fit that philosophy and there will be a major overhaul of the squad in the summer. Developing a squad suited to a manager's style of play takes years (it took Klopp and Liverpool four years), so I think all Everton fans are now buying into that process after the disruption and turnover since 2016.

Here is the difference in the two teams based in Liverpool.
We know how much difference the support of the fans has made. Ours have no trains at that time of night to get home but if it was theirs, the underground runs for at least 2 hours after the game would be finished so no problem for them.

Thanks one and all - you go again - and I hide behind an internet blackout again. I think you will understand when the mobile rang just before 4pm yesterday, I knew it was our kid and I knew we had won.

I watched the build up to the game, the full game, and the aftermath on Optus Sport. For once the broadcaster didn't interfere with the sound. Our fans never stopped before, during or after the game. It was like a home game. It must have been demoralising for our opposition.

I have always been proud of being an Evertonian but that show from our away support brought a tear to my eyes. They were absolutely phenomenal.

The other thing I noticed that I thought was special was how many women and young girls were in our crowd singing their heads off.

As for Frank Lampard if he keeps us up, then I think he definitely has earned the chance to stay on.

Hope he keeps improving!

We have had some good fortune for a change, plus Pickford has made some miracle saves which makes all the difference to the results, long may it continue.

Brenda managed his 600th yesterday but I wouldn't swap him for Frank.

Bren, I'll listen for that whistle in O'Neill's on Wednesday. I don't think you will have stopped by then.

I certainly hope it's sorted before the Arsenal game because my mental health wouldn't be able to cope!

Congratulations you are eligible to buy a season ticket, you will receive an email tomorrow to select your seat for next season.

Just need a Brentford ticket now to top it off.

One friend said it got too much for him so he went into the garden with 20 minutes left, and kept shouting to his wife, who was watching the game, "Are we still winning?"

He only ventured into the house when he knew we had won.

Another said at half-time, he took his dog for a walk and only came back when he knew the game was over.

Who would think 11 men kicking a ball could be responsible for grown men to get into such a state? Thank heavens it will all be over in 2 weeks.

Got up this morning still well hyped and still humming away to myself. I am out walking the dog now with tears rolling down my cheeks listening to the support again.

What an absolutely magical football club we support. Truly blessed, the lot of us.

Right. Back to business, let's get another win under our belts at Watford.

UTFT - I fucking love you!

Last Sunday, my iPad was temporarily on the windowsill when Richarlison scored. It and I stayed there until the end, uncomfortable as it was.

Whatever it takes to guarantee the points we need!!

It is a glorious form of insanity, isn't it?

I really admire those of you living such a distance away, it must be torture at times but I suppose it's a case of “once Everton has touched you….”

Whilst it's tempting to say “same again” I'd go for a system that's a bit more adventurous, but with same personnel. Assuming they're fit:

Pickford
Coleman Keane Holgate Mykolenko
Doucoure Delph
Gordon Iwobi Gray
Richarlison

You guys are the brave ones.

One other thing of note, the ball from Iwobi was inch perfect for Mykolenko, not just a hopeful punt in the box, that guy has stood up and been outstanding over the last Month or so.

Been saying it for weeks, get someone just outside the penalty area, waiting for any second ball coming his way, it normally falls to Allan, Mykolenko was in the perfect place, even if a header was cleared, chances are he would get a half chance, Simply by not getting in the box, but waiting for the ball to come out of the area.

And Neil try når er flyet ditt tilbake til Oslo?
Ner ear flit-et dit till-backer till Oslo.

Like everyone else, the result affects me for the rest of the weekend. Is it only me who only watches MotD if the Blues win? Can I even regard myself as a supporter anymore?

I give kudos to everyone Blue who goes through the grinder, home or away. I suppose I've done my time from 1975, the last match I went to was the 2-0 loss to Man Utd a few Christmases back.

I bet you I'm not the only one who has watched the clips of our great supporters, a lot more than they've watched anything else regarding football this weekend?

Agree with your team selection and sentiments. The game on Wednesday poses a different kind of challenge than the ones against Chelsea and Leicester. We need to be more positive and take the game to Watford.

Once we put in a performance I am more than confident that we will get a positive results. Before the Chelsea game I could see a pathway towards a 40 point total, we are more than capable of beating that total, however, in saying all that, we need to take it a game at a time.

I still watched it on MotD when I got home though, for once, Alan Shearer waxed lyrical about us. Force of habit I suppose.

LEEDS 34pts -35gd

- Chelsea H (11 May)
- Brighton H (15 May)
- Brentford A (22 May)

BURNLEY 34 pts -17gd

- Spurs A (15 May)
- Villa H (19 May)
- Newcastle H (22 May)

EVERTON 35 pts -19gd

- Watford A (11 May)
- Brentford H (15 May)
- Palace H (19 May)
- Arsenal A (22 May)

What sticks out at the moment is just how bad Leeds' goal difference is. The last time a team stayed up with goal difference anywhere near that bad was Huddersfield with -30 and that was an anomally. So the stats are against Leeds at least.

Big chance on Wed v Watford. COYB.

This Wednesday is pretty much it. If we beat Watford, and Leeds lose to Chelsea, our odds of going down become infinitesimal.

I said weeks ago it would be Leeds.

My wife is a Burnley fan. We've been talking about how this nightmare could end up win-win in the Crowley house for a while now.

I want Leeds to go down. I'd like to seem them pop right back up under an American manager frankly, but I think they're in the most danger by a long shot.

I don't know if it make much difference but Burnley are away to Villa. Just like you I am looking at the fixtures and working out the various possibilities.

If, and it's a big if with end of season fixtures, as one has to take into account the fact that certain teams are on beach, but on form Burnley will do well to accumulate 3 points in their remaining 3 games, a home win at against Newcastle and Leeds will do well to accumulate 3 points a home win against Brighton. What might work in Leeds's favour is the closeness of the Cup Final to the Chelsea game, they might take something from that game.

Should Spurs beat Arsenal on Thursday, they then finish against Burnley and Norwich. Chelsea can't afford to take any chances, and will be going all out to beat Leeds.

It'll be really interesting to see how Frank approaches the game.

Perhaps change things around in the second half if necessary.

Another winnable game though.

UTFT

Winning the first two in that run means there's a small cushion now.

A point at Watford would be decent in the grand scheme of things. I expect we'll be playing the same cautious style with the hope of taking more.

From being convinced we couldn't turn this around, I'm getting confident now. A draw at Watford wouldn't change that.

Some crazy scores down there over the years, hopefully Everton get at least 1 point, 3 points would be tremendous.

UTFT!

Hope you are right and Chelsea get a result and that Spurs get something against Arsenal so they go into Burnley game having to win that one.

Just feeling nervy for this Watford game just like the Coventry and Wimbledon games from the past. I just dream of Wednesday night with Everton on 38 and Burnley and Leeds on 34.

The problem with the current set-up is we rarely win headers from long, high, balls and are immediately under the cosh, again.

If we're chasing the game Gray would make an excellent impact sub.

Watford have some real pace in their attack and have little pressure on them so we will need to keep our shape and defend as a unit but we will get chances because they do leave space for the likes of Gordon and Richarlison to exploit. They just have to take any chances they get.

The middle of the park is critical and Doucouré not only needs to win his battles but needs to start finding a blue shirt.

It doesn't have to be pretty though, as we just want the points. Frank can work on the nice football once we are safe.

COYB

I would prefer Richarlison on the left but don't know whether either Rondon or Calvert-Lewin have the legs to start. We need someone strong at No 9 to hold the ball up with their back to goal but there's no-one else.