ARSENAL vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

David Moyes came out to admit that his players are tired, and that why the team started to stutter after their loss to Fiorentina. Yak has also been playing regularly and he too, has started to lose steam. But maybe it's a good thing that Fabregas is not in the starting line-up.

Everton kicked off and very quickly earned themselves a corner that was subsequently cleared by Arsenal. The first 10 minutes was pretty tight, as Everton tries to dominate the midfield with the 4-5-1 formation.

After 20 minutes, there's still no clear shot at goal from either side.

Everton suddenly came to life in the 27th minute with a nice pass from Manny who deftly chipped the ball into the path of AJ. The latter sprinted pass the defender and hit a shot towards goal but was palmed away for a corner. Manny took that corner which saw Jag tap the ball towards goal but was cleared by the Arsenal defence line. Other than that, everything was on a snail's pace. Half time could not have came earlier, but it doesn't matter if Arsenal is not interested to play. So long as Everton gets a point.

Second half was another non-event. Lescott had a off target shot in the 57th minute after Pienaar had put him through with a deft chip. In the 76th minute, everton is trailing 1-0. Sloppy play that did not get the ball out cleanly.

And Everton loses. No matter what, everton has done well this season. If they are in for next`season UEFA Cup, great. If not, so be it as well.

Score: Arsenal 1-0 Everton
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Nil
Subs: Anichebe, Yak, Bainesy

EVERTON vs ASTON VILLA - FULL TIME

Did not have the opportunity to write about this match because of a soccer injury that I'd sustained and had to pay a visit to the hospital. I managed to watch the match though and it was all so painful to see Aston Villa draw Everton.

Final Score: Everton 2-2 Aston Villa

Actim Players Ranking: 220408

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 10th (518) - Best defender (4/9), (22/4); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11), (5/2), (12/2), (26/2), (4/3), (14/3), (1/4); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Howard: 30th (430) - Second best goalie (26/2), (4/3); Third best goalie (4/9), (12/2), (14/3); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1), (5/2), (1/4), (22/4); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 27th
Arteta: 33rd (411) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Yakubu: 36th (403) - Best position: 18th
Neville: 38th (397) - Best position: 30th
Jagielka: 55th (361) - Best position: 49th
AJ: 80th (310) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Yobo: 83rd (309) - Best position: 70th
Cars: 95th (290) - Best position: 72nd
Timmy: 98th (288) - Best position: 64th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

Pienaar: 95th (251) - Best position: 62nd
Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Anichebe: 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

EVERTON vs CHELSEA - FULL TIME

An elusive goal for AJ to make it his 100 career league goals, another clean sheet to an impressive tally for Howard. How about Yak for his 20 goals? Can the want of breaking their records push these players beyond their abilities? I hope so and for the sake of Everton. But against such a team as Chelsea, the only way if Everton can win is when Chelsea fails to turn up. Everton's still a little short of players and I believe that's why Moyes has to field Mishap Manny...oh boy.

Everton kicks off and the players look lively. Manny had to give the ball away which led to Chelsea earning their first corner but thank goodness the opposition has not really warmed up yet.

Manny curled a beautiful freekick in the 15th minute that forced the opposing goalkeeper to make a reflex save. But both sides are just finding the final third a little congested. Everton's missing Arteta who could help to unlock the opposing team's defence. Everton has two good opportunities as Lescott and Pienaar did a one-two to set Lescott free in the penalty area only for the opposing defence to clear the ball. Then Manny had a chance but he skied it.

Jag slided in to stop a one-on-one situation and aptly cleared the ball in the 35th minute. Ok, Everton is now trailing. Howard has to wait another day. Everton 0-1 Chelsea.

Howard has to make that crucial save in the 42nd minute to prevent Everton from going two goals down. Half time. TAKE MANNY OUT!!! He may have done well in his free kicks, but he has ben giving away balls and creating more problems than neccessary.

Start of second half and Manny is still around. Why can't he make use of his skills a little bit better? Moyes is ringing in the change. AJ is replaced by Tommy and Pienaar replaced by Anichebe. Manny is taking good free kicks and if he can score one, much of his clumsy play would be forgiven. Neville has also started to day dream., and his crosses are not worthy of a captain. What's wrong with him?

I don't think they can even hold on to their possible UEFA cup placing.

Score: Everton 0-1 Chelsea
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Hmm
Subs: Tommy, Anichebe

EVERTON vs DERBY - FULL TIME

Finally, Everton has three fit strikers. Something that we have been lacking for quite a number of matches. But now, the midfield looks a bit flat though hopefully, that would not pose much of a problem.

Manny is in the side but I'm still as concerned with his dilly-dallying ways that saw him lose the ball to an opposing player as early as the 1st minute. Everton nearly scored in the 3rd minute but somehow Everton missed it with the goal wide open. Another ball stolen off Manny in the 5th minute! and it nearly cost Everton. Take him out!

Somehow, Everton seems to be on the back foot. So much for any shock and awe. What a miss!!! Open goal on 16th minute and Yak misses! Yak is human after all. Oh boy. Everton seems like they are already on holiday. So much to fight for, but they are just wasting their opportunity. Neville is another player that is playing horrendously and I don't blame Moyes from taking him out last week. he sucks this week too. I can sense the frustration of the crowd. Am I now too.

Everton is totally switched off. Even till the 41st minute when Everton won themselves a free kick, Arteta can't even score from the edge of the box. A loud boo from the crowd at half time. deservingly so!

Frustrating! Even in the second half. Bring on Tommy, or even Anichebe. Whoever! Manny tried firing a shot in. saved by the goalie. Yak then followed-up but nothing in the end. First shot by Everton in the 53rd minute? Oh boy.

Finally! Lovely pass by Manny in the 55th minute. Ossie is found totally open and he struck the ball sweetly into the goal. Everton 1-0 Derby. Suddenly, Manny seems to be more confident now. Ossie strikes at goal again on 60th minute but saved by the keeper for a corner.

Howard save on 63rd minute when Derby was on a one-on-one situation. Good passing in the 66th minute led to Ossie striking on goal but well save by the opposing goalkeeper. Yak is replaced by Anichebe and Manny is replaced by Jag. Final replacement where Arteta was replaced by Valente.

Nothing exciting after that. They have to buck up after one of their worst performance this season. We need to boost our strike and also our midfield. Manny may not be the answer.

Score: Everton 1-0 Derby
Scorer: Ossie
Assist: Manny
Subs: Anichebe, Jag, Valente

Actim Players Ranking: 010408

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 12th (468) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11), (5/2), (12/2), (26/2), (4/3), (14/3), (1/4); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 30th (399) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Yakubu: 32nd (364) - Best position: 18th
Howard: 33rd (390) - Second best goalie (26/2), (4/3); Third best goalie (4/9), (12/2), (14/3); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1), (5/2), (1/4); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 27th
Neville: 42nd (369) - Best position: 32nd
Jagielka: 52nd (341) - Best position: 49th
Yobo: 70th (295) - Best position: 70th
Timmy: 78th (288) - Best position: 64th
AJ: 87th (278) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Cars: 91st (272) - Best position: 72nd

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.
Pienaar: 95th (251) - Best position: 62nd
Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Anichebe: 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

EVERTON vs LIVERPOOL - FULL TIME

This will be one tough match for Everton. Away game, no Cahill, AJ nor Anichebe. No matter what, the Toffees must give it their all.

First shot off from Arteta in the 1st minute. He found that little space but his tame ball was saved comfortably by the opposing goalkeeper. Everton is slowly pecking Liverpool back but the Reds are causing their own little problems for Everton, and Liverpool has taken the lead in the 7th minute. Liverpool 1-0 Everton. Yak should have just clear the ball.

Everton don't seem to be able to settle. It's always a concern when you do not have a striker on the bench to change the scene if there lies a need to. The Toffees are not threatening Liverpool at all and Yak has shown much frustration for playing the lone striker and one which has been lacking support.

Arteta seemed to have moved into a more central midfielder position, lending Yak a little more help. In the 58th minute, a header by Ossie from Arteta's free kick nearly went in. Nearly is the word. Pienaar is replaced by Fernandes. Oh boy. I'm always concerned about Fernandes's commitment when he's playing. Soon after, Neville is being replaced by Bainsey and he very quickly won a corner for Everton, but it came to nought.

Everton continued to press ahead for the equaliser. Good link play between Ossie, Arteta and Yak to earn themselves a corner. But it was ably cleared by Liverpool.

Everton loses this derby match against Liverpool. But Everton really fought hard for every ball. That's what we as fans would want to see.

Score: Liverpool 0-1 Everton
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Nil
Subs: Fernandes, Bainsey

EVERTON vs WEST HAM - FULL TIME

It's the best time for Everton to extend their lead as both 6th placed Portsmouth and 7th placed Aston Villa faltered in both their matches. Timmy and Anichebe are back for Everton, but AJ, Yobo and Pienaar are all out due to injury.

Everton went in search from the word go, but it was West Ham who struck the cross bar first in the 4th minute. Everton then went on the attack but could only put the ball off target via Ossie's header.

Everton has the lead in the 7th minute! A nice back header by Anichebe reached Yak, who shook off the defender, controlled the ball with his head, powered ahead of two other defenders before placing a shot past the opposing goalkeeper. Everton 1-0 West Ham.

Oh no, Timmy is out injured. What's happening to Everton's players in the final few games? He is replaced by Fernandes. But you know things are not doin too bad when even Ossie is winning his headers. Yak scores again, but he was deemed offside. Fernandes seems to be a little tentative in his play. His confidence is a little suspect.

Everton is giving West Ham an uncomfortable time in the 24th minutes as they continue to put pressure on the opposition through back-to-back free kicks and corners. The opposition themselves look like they are disintegrating with arguments between team mates and also, with the referee. But they nearly scored through a mixed up between Arteta and Jag.

Jag is proving to be a revelation with stop after stop to prevent West Ham from troubling Howard. Anichebe was put though on goal by Yak but the goalkeeper made a wonderful save.

What a reflex save by Howard! A free kick by West Ham broke through the wall, deflected off the knee of Lescott but stopped by the foot of Howard. Half time and Everton will need to extend their lead.

Everton start with a full seven minutes of pressure on West Ham. But the opposition also have a punch of their own and through a corner, showed that they could attack too. Everton hit back in the 56th minute but Yak did not have the opportunity to have a clean strike at goal.

Fernandes really looked off form or totally not interested at all. In the 64th minute, the referee played the advantage after the opposing defender had trip him the ball reached Ossie, slide a pass to Bainesy who came one-on-one with the goalkeeper. But the latter made a wonderful save. Then, West Ham came back to score the equaliser. Everton 1-1 West Ham.

Once again, Moyes's hands are tied as he really have no other strikers to go for. They are really looking lost now. Everton won themselves a point, but barely.

Score: Everton 1-1 West Ham
Scorer: Yak
Assist: Anichebe
Sub: Fernandes

FULHAM vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Everton started with the same team that played against Fiorentina with AJ and Yak playing upfront. For the first 5 minutes, Fulham tried to played the direct ball which posed Everton with some threat.

In the 13th minute, AJ seemed to have sprained his ankle and was replaced by Hibbo. That change disrupted the entire flow of attacking soccer as Fulham started to peck Everton back. Only in the 24th minute that Everton made their first shot albeit off target. Everton did one better but still not score when Yak squeezed his way into the penalty area but his subsequent shot was saved by the opposing goalie.

Fulham seemed to be winning most of the 50-50 balls. Everton chances came in dribs and drabs. Arteta took a free kick in the 37th minute but it came to nought. Yak then created his own chance in the 42nd minute but the goalie once again stopped his powerful shot.

Half time Everton 0-0 Fulham. Would Everton be jinxed again at Craven Cottage or will Everton break that jinx?

In the 47th minute, Arteta won a free kick which he took. The ball floated into the penalty area but it went pass everyone. Neville tried to run through to goal in the 56th minute but was abruptly stopped by Fulham. That was Arteta's territory but his free kick was deflected and the chance was lost.

In 63rd minute, a low pass saw the ball coming into the path of Neville but his shot was blocked. Bainesy came on for the pretty ineffective Pienaar. Very quickly after the substitution, Everton is down by one goal in 66th minute. Everton 0-1 Fulham. What's happening to Everton? Why is the substitution bench without a known striker? So I understand from the commentator that all the known strikers are out injured. Oh boy.

A free header by Yobo in the 70th minute sees the ball fly way beyond the goal post. Everton is pressing right now but is it too late? Yak tried a shot in the 79th minute but once again, stopped by the goalie. Everton nearly went two goals down but the ball was cleared away. Fulham really looked like the hungrier side.

Usually when teams are behind, they will pressure the opposing team in the final 10 minutes. But Everton is not even doing that, and that's a loss for Everton. That possibly means the lost of 4th place as well.

Score: Fulham 0-1 Everton
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Nil
Substitutes: Hibbo, Bainsey

Actim Players Ranking: 140308

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 8th (458) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11), (5/2), (12/2), (26/2), (4/3), (14/3); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 28th (376) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 29th (375) - Second best goalie (26/2), (4/3); Third best goalie (4/9), (12/2), (14/3); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1), (5/2); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 27th
Yakubu: 32nd (364) - Best position: 18th
Neville: 34th (355) - Best position: 32nd
Jagielka: 49th (332) - Best position: 49th
Timmy: 65th (287) - Best position: 64th
Yobo: 70th (283) - Best position: 70th
AJ: 76th (278) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Cars: 82nd (266) - Best position: 72nd
Pienaar: 95th (251) - Best position: 62nd

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Anichebe: 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

UEFA CUP: EVERTON vs FIORENTINA (2ND LEG)

Timmy s out injured but still Everton came out firing on all cylinders. A cross by Arteta and a threatening shot at goal by Ossie. Both sides are attacking but it was good to see even AJ and Ossie fighting for headers.

It's the 12th minutes and Everton has not scored an early goal. But the good thing is that they are pegging back their opposition. And Everton scores from a free kick!!! Arteta made a short pass for Pienaar to pick up the ball on the left who managed to cross the ball. Yak made a nuisance of himself in the opponent's penalty area and the goalkeeper missed catching the ball. AJ was just behind to tuck the ball into the goal via his chin. It really does not matter how Everton scores. So AJ has used his shoulder, and now his chin! Everton 1-0 Fiorentina.

Arteta is on song today with much to prove. He took a lovely free kick in the 19th minute that was creeping in san a save from the goalkeeper. Everton was closing them down very fast and not letting them settle.

Ossie is fighting and shielding every ball and he's drawing quite a number of fouls on himself. A quick free kick in the 34th minute saw Arteta threading a ball to Yak who shook off a challange by the opposition's last defender, but was saved by the goalkeeper. AJ was through in the 42nd minute but a last minute tackle ensured that the striker does not score. Half time.

Everton continued their quest for goal in the seocnd half. The opposition is trying to come back but Everton needs to continue to push them back. The worry is Everton might start to leave gaps. In the 63rd minute, AJ managed to get in a cross in for Yak to turn and shoot, but it was blocked.

What a goal!!!! Everton, with Yak tracking back to tackle, brought the ball forward. He checked back and passed the ball to Arteta, who strode forward without any opposing defenders marking him. Seeing that opening, Arteta took a shot from distance and the ball just flew past the diving goalkeeper. Everton 2-0 Fiorentina.

What a great double save! One was cleared off the goal line, and the other was a save from a flying header of Yak. A great save in the 76th minute as Howard, who has been rather erratic with his kicks, made a tremendous save off a header by the opposing striker.

Everton needs to get the third goal and they are really pressing hard.

But finally, Everton did not get the third goal, and lost out to penalty kicks. But it was a great game by Everton in all sense. All the fighting, all the teamwork. It only bodes well for Everton and her future.

Score: Everton 2-0 Fiorentina
Scorer: AJ, Arteta
Assist: -

SUNDERLAND vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Everton was without Cars and Ossie, but welcomed Arteta back to the starting line-up. AJ was also in the first XI.

Nothing to note in the first three minutes but AJ has just won his first header! Moyes has asked Everton to forget about the 7-1 thrashing and Sunderland was definitely playing with greater conviction. They are not giving Everton much space and the game was pretty scrappy. Are they suffering from the UEFA Cup hangover?

Somehow, whenever Neville gets hold of the ball, I also kinda shudder as I really don't know what he'd be about to do. Lots of mis-passes recently. In the 25th minute, Lescott brought down the ball well in the penalty area but chose to pass instead of shoot and the chance is gone. There we go, Neville made another unforced error. What's wrong with this guy?

It was also wierd that Lescott seemed to be playing more like a left winger. Neville is not doing himself any use as I'm not even sure which position he is suppose to play. The most exciting thing so far was the foul on Pienaar! We're in the 40th mintue and there's not even a shot on goal. The 43rd minute then saw three consecutive corners, a deflection off the cross bar after Timmy's header, and AJ's follow-up header saw the ball sailing over the bar.

End of first half. What a yawn.

The start of the second half sees Sunderland controlling the match. Everton can't seem to get near the goal at all. Something needs to change. Anichebe should be brought in, and maybe Tommy for the useless Neville.

The game will definitely open up now! In the 54th minute, Arteta crossed from the left and AJ and Timmy both went for the ball. The former somehow scored via a shoulder. But like they always say, it doesn't matter how you score, so long as it's in the net. Sunderland 0-1 Everton.

Sunderland will need to attack now and definitely will not be able to play their ultra defensive game of seeing 10 men behind the ball. In the 65th minute, Everton was nearly caught with their pants down. Sunderland came back with a quick counter attack after a failed free kick set piece at the other end. All the big guys such as Yobo and Lescott were upfield at that time. It was Pienaar who tracked back with all his might to ensure that Sunderland do not trouble Howard.

Everton was split opened by a lovely pass by Sunderland in the 75th minute but Jag cleared the ball. Bainesy is on for the hardworking Pienaar. Then everything is back to scrappy again.

A great joy for the next replacement. The 16 years old Jack Rodwell is in for Timmy, and Anichebe is in for Yak. Sunderland is still pressurising Everton's defence. A superb superb save by Howard in the 92nd minute to keep Everton in the game. The final whistle goes and Everton is now back on par with Pool in the league table.

Not the best game that Everton has played so far.

Score: Sunderland 0-1 Everton
Scorer: AJ
Assist: Arteta
Subs: Bainesy, Rodwell, Anichebe

UEFA CUP: FIORENTINA vs EVERTON (1st LEG)

My apologies for not writing this report as this game was not shown in Singapore. Anyway, nothing much to write as well since Everton lost 2-0. I appeal to our local cable company to broadcast the return leg. Pleeeaseeee!

Actim Players Ranking: 040308

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 8th (438) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11), (5/2), (12/2), (26/2), (4/3); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Howard: 25th (353) - Second best goalie (26/2), (4/3); Third best goalie (4/9), (12/2); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1), (5/2); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 27th
Arteta: 29th (347) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Neville: 32nd (334) - Best position: 32nd
Yakubu: 35th (328) - Best position: 18th
Jagielka: 51st (297) - Best position: 51st
Timmy: 64th (281) - Best position: 64th
Cars: 72nd (262) - Best position: 72nd
Yobo: 75th (260) - Best position: 74th
AJ: 85th (251) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Pienaar: 93rd (243) - Best position: 62nd

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Anichebe: 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

EVERTON vs PORTSMOUTH - FULL TIME

A very tricky match for Everton as Portsmouth has a pretty strong frontline of Defoe and Kanu, while on the bench, we see Baros and Utaka. The Toffees are without Arteta due to injury.

Yak wins Everton a free kick within 15 seconds and they scored all within one minute!!! Pienaar took the free kick. The ball then bounced akwardly into the lurking Yak who headed the ball in. Assist by Yobo who had the last touch before Yak scored. Everton 1-0 Portsmouth.

Yak wins Everton another free kick with some smart shielding, but Cars balloons the ball over the goal. Everton's passing seemed to be much smoother than the last couple of matches. A nice cross by Ossie in the 15th minute but Yak could not make a clean connection. Very quickly, Everton attacked again through a nice one-two that saw Pienaar put a lovely cross into the penalty area. Timmy pounced on it but once again, the connection was a soft one and the ball was subsequently cleared away from the penalty area.

Everton is holding the game well and they definitely need to score a second to ensure that the Toffees will not endure a nervy end in the last 10 minutes. Loads of lovely touches that totally carved open Portsmouth's defence in the 24th minute. Ossie struck the ball but was off target.

The Toffees have been able to both defend and attack as a unit. Everton seems to be able to throw bodies up front with ease and speed. Pony-haired Pienaar has another opportunity in the 32nd minute but the ball flew past the left upright.

Crafty little Defoe has scored against Everton. Everton 1-1 Portsmouth.

Portsmouth are giving Everton some problems in the second half and Moyes might need to bring in a runner, someone who can stretch their opponent. Suddenly, the field looks so big to Everton as they are losing so many balls and are chasing the shadows of Portsmouth's players. Everton needs to get back their self belief.

Hibbo is replaced by AJ in the 65th minute and made an immediate impact. He latched onto the ball and pressed the opposing defenders back. A lovely low cross which Pienaar could not convert.

Finally, Everton takes the lead! Timmy has broken his duck after a tough season of injury. Yak shielded the ball really well and he pushed it back to Pienaar who made a lovely cross for the unmark Timmy to score. What a header. Everton 2-1 Portsmouth.

What a finish!!! A total striker's goal by Yak. A route one by AJ in the 81st minute that saw Yak picking up the ball. A little shimmy created some space between Yak and his marker and the vicious strike by Yak saw the ball whizzing past the opposing goalkeeper. Everton 3-1 Portsmouth.

A lovely header by Yobo in the 87th minute nearly saw Everton extend their lead. Pienaar is replaced by Bainesy. Sheer hard work by Pienaar, who deserves to be in the ranks of Everton.

Score: Everton 3-1 Portsmouth
Scorer: Yak (2), Timmy
Assist: Yobo, Pienaar, AJ

Actim Players Ranking: 260208

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 8th (424) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11), (5/2), (12/2), (26/2); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 24th (347) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 27th (340) - Second best goalie (26/2); Third best goalie (4/9), (12/2); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1), (5/2); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 27th
Neville: 32nd (323) - Best position: 32nd
Yakubu: 57th (278) - Best position: 18th
Jagielka: 58th (276) - Best position: 58th
Cars: 76th (252) - Best position: 76th
Timmy: 80th (249) - Best position: 71st
Yobo: 84th (246) - Best position: 74th
AJ: 89th (241) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Pienaar: 100th (227) - Best position: 62nd

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Anichebe: 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

MAN CITY vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Everton starts the game without playmaker Arteta and with AJ on the bench as they revert to a 4-5-1 formation. The Toffees looked to soak in the early pressure. Somehow, the Toffees don't look like a side who are capable of controlling the game with their passes and it is up to them to prove the fans wrong.


In the 5th minute, Pienaar's cross carved out an opening for Yak who toe-poked the ball towards goal but was cleared out for a corner. Shortly after, Everton further threatened Man City's goal with the likes of Yak and Timmy, but the final ball was ballooned by Hibbo.


Good interception by Pienaar who robbed a ball off a Man City midfielder and was on the way forward but was aptly stopped by the opposing defence. Man City looked to control the game while Everton are covering well for each other. Man City continues to peg Everton back whenever they have the ball but Everton is still playing well as this game needs a goal to open up the game a little bit more.


In the 27th minute, a route one ball floated into the path of Timmy who passed the ball out to Pienaar. The latter's immaculate chip saw the ball clip the upright. What a close call.


Everton is in the lead! In the 29th minute, Everton movement outside the sixth yard box saw the Toffees trading passes among Yak and Timmy. The latter then sent a low cross into the penalty area and Yak was there to put the ball into the net. Everton 1-0 Man City.


What a blunder by the Man City's defence in the 37th minute. From an Everton's cross, the ball was cleared out of Man City's goalmouth. Cars got hold of the ball, and crossed the ball back in for Lescott to score with a header. Everton 2-0 Man City. A good half time result for Everton.

The start of the second half saw Everton and Man City and trading blows once again. Lots of running by the spritely Pienaar who has played the creative role well. Everton will need to score a third to put the game beyond Man City's reach. Everton nearly did that with Timmy sliding in on Yak's low cross, only to be cleared by the Man City's defence.

Pienaar is being replaced by Manny in the 54th minute. Seemed like Pienaar has suffered a slight strain. Man City is trying to claw their way back as Everton backline continues to give Howard adequate cover.

The substitute Manny has been replaced by AJ because of injury. Manny don't look too impressive in his second stint with Everton. A stupid handball by a Man City just outside their penalty area nearly cost them. But the danger was cleared. Surprising shot by Cars from a free kick when everyone just stood still and waited for the referee to blow his whistle.

The game now is end-to-end as Man City, looking for the elusive goal, has fully stretched themselves for Everton to exploit. Neville is not doing Everton any credit with his continued mistakes game after game.

A cross by Lescott in the 83rd minute saw AJ pounced on the ball, only to be saved by the reflexes of the opposing goalkeeper. Soon, the action was over at the Everton's side as Howard made an important save.

Everton has now proven to be a top side that's pushing Liverpool, and maybe Chelsea to the wire.

Score: Everton 2-0 Man City
Scorers: Yak, Lescott
Assists: Timmy, Cars

UEFA CUP: EVERTON vs BRANN (2ND LEG)

Everton come into this match with a two goal lead but Moyes selection of players suggested that the Toffees are not resting on their laurels. In comes Arteta and Pienaar. So we should expect a little bit more creativity from Everton as they have taken up a 4-4-2 formation.

The opening five minutes saw both teams trying to settle though Everton is starting to control more of the game. In the 5th minute, Brann was through but their striker was seemingly fouled by Cars outside the penalty area, but the referee said play on. Don't think it would be dangerous but definitely it would have been uncomfortable.

Low shot by Brann in the 10th minute and it was dealt very cleanly by Howard. Once again, Everton seemed to be soaking in the pressure while going on a counter attack.

Cars is controlling well from the centre and have continually placed the ball into the penalty area and that allowed Everton to earn their first corner, but it came to nought. This, like the game in the first leg, looked to be a pretty tight affair.

Brann was not really threatening, but Everton was also not. Everton's final third are losing too many balls. Also, too many misplaced passes by the midfield and this only showed what tight defence Brann had.

From a save from Howard, to a goal at the other end. In the 35th minute, Pienaar made a pass to Timmy, who flicked it on to Yak who did a one-two with Timmy and the former then nicely curled the ball into the net. Assist by Timmy. Everton 1-o Brann.

Everton is turning this into a display match. In the 42nd minute, AJ picked up the ball and was sheperded to the right of the field, That did not stop AJ from taking a shot that went past the opposing goalkeeper and into the net. Everton 2-0 Brann.

Half time. Think Moyes may want to bring in Anichebe for a run in the last 20 minutes or so to rest those tired legs of either Yak or AJ.

Moyes has moved faster than I thought for the substitution. Cars and Timmy are out, and Hibbo and Fernandes are in.

Everton nearly had their thrid with AJ breaking through but the upright saved Brann from further embarassment. With Fernandes in, Everton looked so much more dangerous and soon enough, Everton scored again in the 57th minute. Pienaar passed the ball to Yak, who strode into Brann's half towards goal. With a little turn of his body, he left two defenders on their butts, and then curled the ball nicely into the net once again. Sheer class. Everton 3-0 Brann.

Brann came back to score from no where from a free kick, aided by a bumpy ground. Everton 3-1 Brann. Everton are starting to commit silly fouls.

But a couple of passes and Everton scored another goal in the 69th minute. A pass from AJ, to Pienaar, who passed to Yak. He controlled the ball and swept it to the path of Arteta who took a shot and scored through a massive deflection by the opposing defender. Everton 4-1 Brann.

Yak scores his second hat-trick for Everton in the 71st minute. Pienaar centred the ball. It bypassed all the opposing defender but not Yak, who went on to score an easy goal. Everton 5-1 Brann. Pienaar assist. That was the last contribution by Yak who was replaced by Anichebe. Potent display by Yak.

Everton is still not letting up as they continue to chase the ball.

Oh so close. Anichebe brought through on the right and made a telling cross. Arteta then went on to set Pienaar up who tried to place the ball beyond the opposing goalkeeper. Once again, the upright saved Brann. Everton too was saved by the post as Brann tried to get their consolation goal.

And what a late goal by AJ as he inflicted more pain to Brann's all so painful wound. Picking up the ball from the left, AJ released a thunderous shot that bulged the net. Everton 6-1 Brann.

Brann was just clinging on and hoping for the referee to blow his whistle, which he did to end their suffering. What a game, what a thrashing!

Everton will now go on to meet Fiorentina.

Score: Everton 6-1 Brann (Aggregate: 8-1)
Scorer: Yak (3), AJ (2), Arteta (1)
Assist: Timmy, Pienaar

UEFA CUP: EVERTON vs BRANN (1ST LEG)

Everton starts the first leg of the last 32 teams in UEFA Cup. Yak is now back into the team and will partner AJ in a 4-4-2 formation. The Toffees though will be without two creative players - Arteta and Pienaar.

Everton kicks off and Yak has the first shot on goal in the 43rd second. Everton are passing the ball around well enough and Brann are trying to keep pace with the Toffees. Brann came fighting back in the 9th minute after a clumsy challenge by Fernandes. Brann took the free kick and the header just skimmed the cross bar. Brann is definitely not an easy opponent.

Timmy still looked singed as he had made a couple of bad passes and clumsy tackles. Jag did well in th 16th minute with an important lobbed clearance. Brann is still doing well at the back with former Leeds defender Eirik Bakke marshalling his backline. Once again, Jag made a crucial tackle to ensure that parity was maintained. I'm still waiting for Everton to win their first corner. That's where they can threaten.

The opposing defence was tight and it looked difficult to unhinge their back four. Everton wins their first corner in the 29th minute but Cars took a wild shot that suits rugby more than soccer! Somehow, Everton's defence seems to look more fragile than their opponents and Brann has a couple of pacy attackers to trouble Everton.

Nice curler in the 32nd minute by Ossie, forcing the opposing goalkeeper to make a one-handed save. Still, I'm not convinced with Everton's midfielders. Neville is creating quite a bit of problem for themselves with his bad passes and he gave the ball again to cause more worries for Everton.

I'm starting to wonder if VdM will make a difference if he is ever brought in. The Everton midfield looks pretty dead. Fernandes does not create enough for the strikers, Timmy having his off day, Cars is ballooning every ball he receives. Only Ossie looks interested in the game. Even the Everton defence are also making quite a few unforced errors. Drama at the end of the first half as the ball was bundled into the net but the referee disallowed it for a foul on Howard. That was close.

Both teams enters the dressing rooms at the halfway mark. Brann showed that even though they are off-season in their league, they are still playing with alot of gusto and have done better than the Toffees so far. Believe that Moyes will give them some dressing down for their slack play.

Everton has to play better than the first half and they won two corners in succession but but came to nought. The Toffees are definitely missing Arteta's holding ability and pin-point crosses. If this persist, Moyes may have to remove a striker and add a midfielder to stranglehold the centre of the field. Timmy finally came to life in the 52nd minute as his long shot bounced off the left post.

Everton continues to wallow in their under-par performance as they could not even deliver a simple cross with Neville one of the culprits once again.

Everton scored through Ossie in the 58th minute and what a placement of a shot. A clearance by the opposing defender saw Ossie latch on to the ball and his shot curled beyond the outstretched hand of the goalkeeper. Brann 0-1 Everton. Ossie has been a real handful for Brann.

Again, everton goes into slumber. The defence are waiting for the ball to come to them and are not closing down the opposition quickly enough. Timmy looks really tired and may need to be substituted. Anichebe is in, AJ is being substituted.

Fernandes took a pot-shot in the 76th minute. The ball bounced akwardly in front of goal but was well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. Good try.

Howard made a tremendous save in the 82nd minute to punch the ball away for a corner and Brann nearly profited from it. Brann is really pressing for the equaliser but Everton is trying to slow the pace of the game down and then Everton struck. Lescott marauding run on the left was left unchecked for quite a bit. He was allowed to make a cross into the penalty area which Anichebe gladly pounced on to score Everton's second goal. Brann 0-2 Everton. There was a tinge of offside though. Everton was lucky to be given that goal.

Baines is in, Yak is substituted. The referee blows the final whistle and Everton is one step closer to the last 16.

Score: Brann 0-2 Everton
Scorer: Ossie, Anichebe
Assist: Lescott

Actim Players Ranking: 120208

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 9th (386) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11), (5/2), (12/2); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 19th (347) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 29th (320) - Third best goalie (4/9), (12/2); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1), (5/2); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 32nd
Neville: 31st (313) - Best position: 34th
Yakubu: 65th (253) - Best position: 18th
Jagielka: 73rd (245) - Best position: 73rd
Timmy: 85th (233) - Best position: 71st
AJ: 87th (233) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Yobo: 94th (224) - Best position: 74th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.
Cars: 97th (214) - Best position: 87th
Pienaar: 90th (216) - Best position: 62nd
Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Anichebe: 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

EVERTON vs READING - FULL TIME

Everton really looked out-of-sorts today. It's easy to find a scapegoat and definitely we have one - Yaks. But beyond that, everton seemed weak in all departments. I tend to believe that other teams have figured out AJ, and thus nullifying any threats. I missed the 1st half and I found out that I didn't miss much. So here's the 2nd half.

A great cross by Arteta in the 60th minute, and the Reading defence cleared it out of the box reaching as far as to Ossie. The defence closed in on him rather quickly and Ossie had little choice but to pump the ball back into the penalty area. The Reading defence played Jag in whose looping header saw it beat the opposing goalkeeper. Everton 1-0 Reading.

Everton came to life after that goal. In the 66th minute, Ossie struck the cross bar with a lovely cross shot. So close. Once again, Everton will need to score another goal to make sure they win.

Neville has been giving away a whole lot of balls and that's not too good a sign, and he gave the ball away! again!! Neville has wasted so many attacking opportunities.

Vaughny tried an overhead kick on the 76th minutes and was saved by the opposing goalkeeper. Great shot! Everton nearly conceded. Lescott missed the clearance and it was one-on-one with Howard. But Jag sliding tackle ensured Everton maintains their lead.

One of the worst game I've ever seen Everton play.

Score: Everton 1-0 Reading
Scorer: Jag
Assist: Ossie
Sub: Vaughny

Actim Players Ranking: 050208

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 10th (370) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11), (5/2); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 19th (333) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 32nd (303) - Third best goalie (4/9); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1), (5/2); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 32nd
Neville: 40th (291) - Best position: 34th
Yakubu: 59th (253) - Best position: 18th
Timmy: 81st (226) - Best position: 71st
AJ: 88th (221) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Pienaar: 90th (216) - Best position: 62nd
Cars: 97th (214) - Best position: 87th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

Yobo: 95th (200) - Best position: 74th
Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

BLACKBURN ROVERS vs EVERTON- FULL TIME

Both teams are fighting for a European place and the first three minutes looked good for Blackburn with a corner and even a try on goal. Everything still very sterile at 8th minute as both teams did not have any good tries on goal.

Nice Everton cross in the 14th minute but nicer save by Blackburn's goalkeeper. Both Everton's wingers Arteta and Fernandes were not getting any service whatsoever, while AJ could only run after direct balls from defence.

Lovely football in the 28th minute by Arteta who took the ball from the right side of the field, played a one-two and strode towards goal before releasing a placed shot the opposing goalkeeper pushed out for a corner. Quickly taken, Ossie saw his shot went wide of the goal.

Everton had won themselves a couple of successive corners and have kept the pressure. Close to half-time, Everton nearly got themselves into the lead as Jag's header flew towards goal but was cleared off the line.

Blackburn started brightly once again as they Howard made the save. Everton quickly countered with AJ pushing the ball forward. He then passed it to Arteta who crossed the ball. Fernandes came in from the blind side to hit the ball towards goal. Great save by the opposing goalkeeper. Fernandes don't look lively at all.

Good Everton possession in the 57th minute that ended with Ossie heading pass the Blackburn's goal. Arteta is controlling much of the right flank now. Fernandes took a lovely free kick in the 62nd minute but the right upright saved them! What a chance!

Some Everton players are not really playing up to mark. The likes of Fernandes, Timmy and Ossie are not as lively as they should be. Everton won themselves another free kick in the 66th minute but Arteta could not curl the ball into the goal.

Everton will need to bring in another striker to help AJ who has toiled non-stop if they want to win the game. Defensively, they were still pretty sound.

Blackburn attacked well but once again, the defence repelled their attack. Finally, Ossie is taken out and Vaughny is in. It's a shaky end for both sides. Everton had the ball in the net but it was ruled offside! It was not at all! Think the linesman is playing himself too much into the game.

Two points dropped! Taken away by the linesman.

Score: Blackburn 0-0 Everton
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Nil
Sub: Vaughny

BLACKBURN ROVERS vs EVERTON- Preview

Everton has shown great strength to keep getting points even without their African Cup-tied players, winning two and drawing one in the League. The Toffees still have to wait a bit more as Nigeria has gone through to the next round of the Cup game.

Timmy and Ossie are both back for this game but Pienaar misses this game even though he is back from the African Cup. I do hope AJ can start scoring as he has truly worked very hard for the team.

Predictor: Blackburn 1-0 Everton

Actim Players Ranking: 290108

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 14th (350) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 18th (321) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 33rd (281) - Third best goalie (4/9); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), (29/1); Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 32nd
Neville: 36th (274) - Best position: 34th
Yakubu: 53rd (253) - Best position: 18th
Timmy: 72nd (220) - Best position: 71st
Pienaar: 75th (216) - Best position: 62nd
Yobo: 95th (200) - Best position: 74th
AJ: 97th (199) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Cars: 99th (198) - Best position: 87th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Stubbsy: Nil - 80th (78) - Fifth best defender (21/8), (28/8); Best position: 18th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

CARLING CUP: CHELSEA vs EVERTON - 2ND LEG

Manny is in for the very first match for Everton and the team went for the jagular straight from kick-off as both teams tried to settle. Chelsea started attacking in the 2nd minute and nearly profited.

Both clubs seemed to be taking shots at each other continuously, trying to test each other's strengths. Everton had a header on target in the 9th minute when Lescott planted a firm header towards the opposing goal, only for the goalkeeper to palm the ball away.

Manny and Arteta looked good as they controlled the midfield well. Everton seemed to be doing a good job shackling their opponent and also causing problems with wave after wave of attacks. Chelsea started to stamp their authority from the 25th minute as they too started their attacks on Everton. Ashot on Everton's goal in the 28th minute but Howard made a good stop.

Everton coming to life in the 38th minute with a shot by AJ, but was deflected wide. The subsequent corner was wasted. No breakthrough for Everton as the boys headed to the dressing room at half time.

Chelsea came out firing all cylinders and nearly took Everton out of the equation, but for the crossbar. Everton will really need to push for a goal! What a shot at goal by Neville and what a save by the opposing goalkeeper. Everton nearly scored again with a Jag back flick.

Everton needs to go for broke by bringing in a second striker. Chelsea scores against the run of play. 1-0.

AJ struck the ball towards goal but was blocked by Chelsea's goalkeeper, and that's really the closest that Everton has gotten to a goal. Everton's dream of a Carling Cup final has come to an end.

Score: Everton 0-1 Chelsea
Scorer: Nil
Subs: Anichebe, Vaughany

Actim Players Ranking: 220108

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 12th (350) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1), (22/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 17th (321) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 33rd (281) - Third best goalie (4/9); Fourth best goalie (15/1), (22/1), Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 32nd
Neville: 36th (274) - Best position: 34th
Yakubu: 52nd (253) - Best position: 18th
Timmy: 71st (220) - Best position: 71st
Pienaar: 75th (216) - Best position: 62nd
Yobo: 95th (200) - Best position: 74th
AJ: 97th (199) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Cars: 99th (198) - Best position: 87th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.
Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Stubbsy: Nil - 80th (78) - Fifth best defender (21/8), (28/8); Best position: 18th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

WIGAN vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Ossie and AJ are back in the squad but Everton is still a little thin in terms of players because of the African Cup. Manny is on the substitute bench though.

The first 5 minutes see both teams testing each other while not really troubling either of the goalkeepers. With Everton playing 4-4-1-1 formation, they looked a little lightweight upfront. Wigan seemed to be giving Everton the shivers with their passing. Everton looked somewhat disjointed.

Cars took a shot on the volley in the 15th minute but it flew past the cross bar.

Everton nearly scored in the 16th minute with some strong running from AJ on the left flank. AJ managed to cross the ball for Arteta who side-footed the ball towards goal, but was palmed away by the opposing goalkeeper.

Wigan nearly scored in the 21st minute but for the cross bar. Former Everton player Marcus Bent nearly put the ball in, and they nearly scored again in the 24th minute, but Timmy intervened with a sliding tackle. I really think that Moyes will really need to bring in Manny and Vaughany. Everton seemed to be suffering in terms of size and were letting Wigan control the game.

AJ had a try on goal in the 33rd minute but he was feeding off scraps.

Thank You Titus Bramble! I would usually not mention the name of the opposition player, but he gift-wrapped the goal for AJ to score. Stupid mistake that allowed AJ to go one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper. Wigan 0-1 Everton.

Everton was under pressure by Wigan until that stupid mistake.

Poor, poor defending in the 40th minute by Wigan that sees Everton lead by two goals. From a corner by Arteta, the ball bobbled around the opposing penalty and Lescott strike the ball into the net. Wigan 0-2 Everton.

The opposing team looked frustrated as they made a double substitution in the first five minutes of the second half.

Own goal by Everton's Jag in the 52nd minute as Wigan fought back. Oh boy. Jag could not get himself out of the way though. Wigan 1-2 Everton. The Toffees will need to score another goal to prevent a fiery ending as the opposing team will throw every together with the kitchen sink at Everton.

Seemed like Everton has gone into slumber once again, and Timmy even tried to fake a penalty. Oh boy. What's happening to Everton in this game. They are playing alot of long balls for AJ to chase.

Ossie nearly scored in the 66th minute but the ball just whizzed past the right of the goal post.

Vaughany came in for Neville and the team looked much more balanced. But it was still Wigan that continued to threaten. In the end, Wigan just fizzled out.

Score: Wigan 0-2 Everton
Scorer: AJ, Lescott
Assist: Jag
Sub: Vaughany

Actim Players Ranking: 150108

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 15th (319) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1), (15/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 19th (301) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 32nd (267) - Third best goalie (4/9); Fourth best goalie (15/1), Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Best position: 32nd
Neville: 34th (259) - Best position: 34th
Yakubu: 43rd (253) - Best position: 18th
Pienaar: 69th (216) - Best position: 62nd
Timmy: 81st (207) - Best position: 79th
Yobo: 89th (200) - Best position: 74th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.
AJ: 99th (184) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Cars: 89th (150) - Best position: 87th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Stubbsy: Nil - 80th (78) - Fifth best defender (21/8), (28/8); Best position: 18th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

EVERTON vs MANCHESTER CITY - FULL TIME

Everton did well in the first match without their top scorer - Yak, playmaker - Pienaar, and first team defender Yobo.

Arteta showed why the Toffees missed him so much by providing his team-mates with many excellent crosses and free kicks. One of which reached Lescott who tucked the ball past the opposing goalkeeper.

It was not all one-way street as Manchester City fought back. But Everton barely held on and had to thank Howard for his final save just before the referee's final whistle.

Everton needs to now look at staying in the top five, and they have to look at it one game at a time. For now, the players can now have a good rest as they do not have another match until they face Wigan on 20 Jan.

Score: Everton 1-0 Manchester City
Scorer: Lescott
Assist: Arteta
Subs: Vaughany, Bainsey

EVERTON vs MANCHESTER CITY - Preview

With the African Cup, Moyes will have to put up a changed team for the match against Manchester City. Yobo, Yak and Pienaar have all departed for the African competition.

AJ is also out injured thus leaving the striking department with quite a bit of headache. Arteta is back in the squad and hopefully, he will help make that difference.

Faddy and Anichebe will make up the front two strike force, while Valente comes in for the Yobo.

Everton does not look as strong at home as the start of the season. So with this depleted team, I'm expecting a draw of a loss.

Predictor: Everton 0-0 Manchester city

CARLING CUP: CHELSEA vs EVERTON - 1ST LEG

This is one of Everton's biggest match in this two leg games starting at Stamford Bridge. This will also be the final time where Yobo and Yak will play before they link up with their country for the African Cup.

Everton kicks off. First mini scare for Chelsea. Timmy headed the ball down for Yak, who chipped the ball towards goal for AJ. Just a little short and was easily picked up by the opposing goalkeeper.

Cars got a stupid yellow in the 9th minute for complaining about the previous tackle. He living on the tenterhooks now. Chlesea seems to be tightening the screws now as they try to take control of the game. Everton must learn how to pace themselves and not run themselves to the ground in the first half. Faddie has been holding the ball well and has earned Everton a number of free kicks, but Yak has been scuffing quite a few set-up plays.

After 20 minutes, Everton has not had a first shot on goal as this proves to be a very tight game. But Chelsea found the opener in the 25th minute as they carved open Everton's defence. Chelsea 1-0 Everton.

Everton really looked like they are short of a few quality players. Lescott timely tackles have saved Everton quite a number of time now. The teams break off for half time with Everton showing no strength in midfield and hardly for the front pair of Yak and AJ to do anything.

The start of the second half shows Chelsea in ascendency once again. But Chelsea has offered Everton with the chance to fight back as one of their players received a red card in the 54th minute for a tackle on Neville.

Everton is back on track! Faddie took the free kick which Yobo set up the ball for Yak to score with a total blistering shot. Chelsea 1-1 Everton.

Faddie nealy scored in the 68th minute as he danced into the penalty area and took a shot which bounced off the left post. Jag does not look comfortable in the centre-half. He is too eager to commit even when he's the last man. This means that when he misses the ball and take the man, he'll most definitely be sent off.

Chelsea still looks dangerous with their 10-man team. Everton will need a change of personnel as some of the players look beat! Finally, Yak is off and Anichebe is on the field. Faddie's passes are all too fuzzy. He's a good player but nobody knows what is he going to do.

The shortest man from Chelsea scored against Everton. Unbelievable. Chelsea 2-1 Everton.

Score: Chelsea 2-1 Everton
Scorer: Yak
Assist: Yobo

Actim Players Ranking: 080108

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 18th (290) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12), (8/1); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 29th (267) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Yakubu: 36th (253); Best position: 18th
Howard: 39th (249) - Fifth best goalie (28/8), (8/1); Third best goalie (4/9); Best position: 38th
Neville: 48th (237) - Best position: 48th
Pienaar: 62nd (216) - Best position: 62nd
Timmy: 79th (201) - Best position: 79th
Yobo: 80th (200) - Best position: 74th
AJ: 99th (184) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Cars: 89th (150) - Best position: 87th
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Stubbsy: Nil - 80th (78) - Fifth best defender (21/8), (28/8); Best position: 18th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

FA Cup: EVERTON vs OLDHAM - FULL TIME

You wondered "what happened?" Playing at home and against a Division one club, this match should be a no-brainer. But somehow Everton got booted out of England's oldest cup competition.

Things do happen in soccer, but we do hope that this is not the first sign of Everton going into a major slump. Losing 1-0 to Oldham somehow brings about the trend that I've been talking about. Everton wins one, loses one, then its the same cycle once again.

So they should win at Chelsea?

Score: Everton 0-1 Oldham
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Nil
Subs: Anichebe, Yak, Lescott

MIDDLESBOROUGH vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Everton starts without Arteta, Yobo and Timmy and both teams are trying to settle. Everton has continued on their dogged style. Faddie and AJ are in the starting line-up.

I'm a bit concerned that Jag is playing in the centre and hope he does not fowl up this time round. Everton has to keep that clean sheet. There's a 7th minute scare when Boro was one-on-one with Howard as the latter rushed out to stop the ball. The danger of playing the off-side gamev as seen in full view.

Other than that scare, Everton was still doing alright but needed to press the opponent better. Boro was doing their own pressing in the 16th minute when Valente could not get to the pass but the ball went out of touch for Everton's goal kick. But Boro is pressing Everton back and Cars headed the ball away from goal.

Faddie took a pot shot in the 21th minute but was deflected for a corner. Nothing came out of the corner as Everton tried their best to press. Boro though looked dangerous on the counter.

Valente play was rather sloppy with all the missed passes and with that, placed Everton in quite a bit of pressure. But both sides are still quite evenly matched. Boro attacked well and they nearly scored, but for an off-the-line clearance by Jag. Faddie has somewhat dissappeared from the game and Yak has to come deep to pick up the ball.

It's the 34th minute but still Everton don't really had a shot at goal so far. as Boro seemed to have settled much better. Things looked rather lack lustre.

It's a rather quiet first half as Faddie and Neville posed no threat to the opposing defence, while once again, Everton has to rely on Pienaar to provide that creative flair. Half time 0-0.

No change in the second half, both for personnel and Boro's attack. An opening for Everton in the 47th minute but Yak skied it. We're missing Lescott's run into the opposing penalty area as he'd need to hold fort in the centre of defence.

With no creativity whatsoever, the departure of our African Cup players will bound to take effect on Everton's stay in the top six.

Everton nearly went behind in the 56th minute, and Jag nearly gave away a penalty! Once again! Howard made a tremendous save to prevent Boro from leading. Everton's living by the skin of their teeth. Everton countered by it seemed like they are straining themselves.

Moyes really needs to make the change! Valente, Jag and even Faddie! He has to remove players that are not helping the cause. Somehow Faddie's most dangerous moves were his throw-ins than anything else.

Against the odds, Everton scores in the 68th minute! Yak crossed the ball and was picked up by Pienaar who flicked gingerly to AJ. Pushing the ball past two defenders, AJ tucked the ball into the bottom left of the net. Boro 0-1 Everton.

Everton still has alot to do and they have done it in the 72nd minute. Faddie started a one-two with AJ and the former curled it nicely into the bottom left corner once again. Boro 0-2 Everton.
Once again, it's still not over until the final whistle. Everton needs to run down the clock. Baines now replaced Faddie.

Pienaar looked a little tired now. Moyes should take him off before he makes any mistakes. Vaughany is in for Yak.

Everton was still attacking in the 92nd minute. That's the spirit. Anichebe is on for Pienaar.

Final whistle blows and Everton win without three of their important players in the first XI. Boro looked beat without a prolific goalscorer, but still looked like a difficult team to beat.

Well, Arteta will not be around for two more matches and Everton just have to play above themselves to seal any future victories. No matter, it's still three points gained and my prediction of winning after losing the last macth, came true.

Score: Boro 0-2 Everton
Scorers: AJ, Faddie
Assists: Pienaar, AJ

MIDDLESBOROUGH vs EVERTON - Preview

It's been a win, then a lost, and afterwhich a win and a lost. If you're going by this sequence, Everton is suppose to win next. But we really do not know which Middlesborough will turn up. Also, Arteta will be out for the next three matches because of his red card.

Thank goodness the next two other matches are not against the big teams and the Toffees should be able to cope with its current depth of players. Yak is going back to his old club and this should be incentive enough for him to demolish them for not treasuring him as a player.

Everton should be bitterly upset that they did not get anything from the Arsenal game. So with much bubbly and good cheer, let's get our New Year on the road and give them a thrashing that they'll never forget.

Predictor: Boro 1-4 Everton

EVERTON vs ARSENAL - FULL TIME

Hibbo is back in the team as Tommy is not fit for this match, while Neville is played in the middle of the park beside Cars.

Everton looked ready for a fight as the Toffees tried to close any space that Arsenal had rather quickly. Arsenal seemed to be in control for the first five minutes. Everton started to pile a little pressure in the 10th minutes with a cross by Neville which Almunia saved. In the 15th minute, Pienaar, threaded a pass to Timmy, who back-hilled the ball back to Pienaar. The latter then sliced the ball to Yak who carved the open the opposing defence. But the pass on the ball to Pienaar was a little heavy.

Everton has taken the lead in the 19th minute!!! A cross from Arteta saw a mad scramble by Arsenal's defenders. Both Yak and Timmy were there to ensure that the ball entered the net, no matter what. It was a close call as to whether it was Timmy or Yak who scored, but the ground commentator attributed the goal to Timmy. Everton 1-0 Arsenal.

Everton was not giving them any space whatsoever. In the 25th minute, Everton won another corner, but was subsequently cleared by the Arsenal defence. With such a work-rate from Everton, we will surely need to make use of our three substitutes.

Lescott marauding run into the opposing penalty box in the 29th minute was sheperd out for a corner. It was so weird to see Yobo and Lescott so far upfront as they traded passes along the left channel! Somehow Arsenal looked scared!

Once again, Everton needed to get a second goal to calm the nerves and should not be sitting back. In the 36th minute really saw the touches so many players - Arteta, Hibbo, Yak, and finally it led to an over-the-bar shot by Neville. Half-time Everton leads but don't expect Wenger to take it lying down. Expect changes to the team.

Everton started the second half on the offensive, but Arsenal scored on the counter attack. Jag failed to clear and now it's evens stevens. The price you pay for not taking your chances earlier and this has placed Everton under needless pressure. Everton 1-1 Arsenal.

Yak was all alone in the 56th minute but he could not score when the ball was floated into the opposing penalty area. Everton is now a goal down as he turned Jag and scored an unstoppable goal. Everton 1-2 Arsenal. A total lost of concentration!

Arsenal is now playing long balls to try to hold on to their lead. Think not too long ago Wenger was complaining that we were playing the long ball. Everton needs to take Jag out. Instead, Hibbo was taken out, and AJ was brought in. Neville should now occupy the right back position.

Red card for Bendtner! Everton must fight back now. 15 more minutes to press! C'mon Everton! What a stupid mix-up between Yobo and Howard! Now Everton looked like in a horrible state! Everton 1-3 Arsenal. All their hard work undone; total let-down by the defenders.

Crazy crazy match! Arteta got sent off for an elbow. What an act by the Arsenal player! Lescott's winning all the ball, but just not directing them into the net. We saw a total collapse of Everton. The defence totally leaked the goals.

Score: Everton 1-4 Arsenal
Scorer: Timmy
Assist: Arteta
Substitute: AJ

EVERTON vs ARSENAL - Preview

We have always visited big clubs with much trepidation. But this year the feeling is all so different. Everton somehow seems to relish these big confrontations. Their narrow losses to Man United and Liverpool showed that the Toffees can fight tooth and nail against the top four clubs.

Today's confrontation with Arsenal is no different. There's not much expectation on Everton as they are the under-dogs, but for Arsenal, they are expected to win Everton to stay within striking distance of Manchester United. Pressure to stay within the top two will only leave gaps at the back, and that Everton will exploit the gaps today.

There's just this strange confidence that Everton will win even when others are saying that Everton will not.

Predictor: Everton 1-0 Arsenal

EVERTON vs BOLTON - FULL TIME

Tommy got his first start and that should be exciting while Pienaar who made the mistake in the last game, was retained. Pienaar did performed well in the last game and should rightly continue. Everton would want to keep Anelka and Diouf quiet.

The first two minutes saw the ball in Everton's half, while the next ten minutes was pretty much scrappy. Tommy looked like he needs a little warm-up with all his misplaced passes.

The first shot at goal was from Bolton in the 15th minute, but it was high and wide. Then, everything was dead and quiet once again.

In the 19th minute, Everton broke away with Pienaar on the left channel. Lescott took over the ball and centred the ball to Arteta who thundered the ball towards goal but was deflected wide.

In the 23rd minute, Arteta was fouled just outside the penalty area. Free kick. Time for Arteta special, but was headed away. Everton won themselves another free kick two minutes later but once again cleared by Bolton. Everton was now piling the pressure but still not profiting from it.

Yak was in a good position in the 32nd minute when Arteta's cross came in, but Yak was pressured by the opposing defender to head the ball out instead of into the goal. Yobo's passing also seemed to be failing him as well. Everton will need to play the channels to break Bolton's defence.

Few and far between attacks - Tommy struck the ball well but it was deflected. Yak then scored but was ruled offside. Half time Everton 0-0 Bolton.

With the kick of the ball in the 45th minute, Yak controlled the ball and cut it back for Timmy who tired to place the ball past the opposing goalie but the latter was quick to react to the ball. The subsequent corner saw Lescott missed a wonderfully good chance.

Everton earned two other corners in the 49th minute but could not score. Then came the opener in the 51st minute! From the right channel, Neville delivered a cross which eluded the on rushing goalkeeper and defender. So is it a cross or is it a chip? Does it matter? Everton 1-0 Bolton.

Sigh of relief from the Everton crowd after intense pressure on Bolton.

Arteta then bamboozled three defenders with his mazy run and was then halted by a body-check. Everton has started their flowing moves. Jag then made a crucial block in the 58th minute to prevent a possible strike on Everton's goal. Jag then made three other crucial stops in quick succession.

Everton needs to get their second goal as Bolton. Lescott cleared off the line in the 65th minute! Magnificant clearance!

Advantage played and Everton scores in the 7oth minute!!! Lovely, lovely play. A tackle on Tommy was given the advantage as the ball reached Lescott who played himself onside. Lescott cuts back the ball for the lil jellybean Timmy to slot it past the goalkeeper. Everton 2-0 Bolton.

Timmy and Lescott looked very influential. Even Yak has been standing his ground around the opposing penalty area. Arteta has also started to take pot shots at goal. Tommy goes off and is replaced by AJ.

Bolton might feel a little bit hard done by the referee's decision. But sometimes, things just go the other way. The opposition was then through on goal in the 81st minute but Howard was alert to stop the ball. Neville's off, and Hibbo's on. Everton had a scare in the 87th minute as the ball flew past the left post of Howard's goal.

Final change, Yak off and Vaughany's on. Scrappy play again for the last three minutes but it does not matter as Everton has taken the three points.

Score: Everton 2-0 Bolton
Scorer: Neville, Timmy
Assist: Lescott
Subs: AJ, Hibbo, Vaughany

EVERTON vs BOLTON - Preview

This is the moment Everton should grasp hold of and make sure that the Toffees get back to a winning start.

Their opponent - Bolton - will not be an easy club to face, but at least Everton is playing at home. Well, this the season to be Jolly! Arteta is expected to be back, and if that's so, it'll most likely be the 4-5-1 formation.

Predictor: Everton 4-2 Bolton

MAN U vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Everton started without Arteta but were still handling well in the first five minutes. Fiesty match that saw two Man U players getting their yellow cards.

In the 9th minute, Man U nearly scored. Howard and Jag could not make a clean clearance and Tevez slid in to nearly score. Everton attacked in the 12th minute with a Lescott low cross but the opposing goalie was up to it. Shortly after, Timmy and Hibbo received their yellow cards respectively. It seemed that the referee was fast losing the control of the game.

In the 22nd minute, Ronaldo scored an unstoppable goal just outside the penalty area. Unstoppable. Man U 1-0 Everton.

Everton fought back and scored!!! From the left channel, Pienaar floated in the ball that saw Timmy raised above two opposing defenders to head the ball past Man U's goalkeeper.

Man U 1-1 Everton.

In the 31st minute, AJ worked the left channel once again and centred the ball that saw Yak set up Neville who skied the ball. Nearly. Shortly after, Lescott had to clear off the line in the 32nd after a good play by Man U's Rooney. Tevez tried his luck at goal in the 38th minute but saw Howard picking up the ball quite easily.

Everton has been hustling the Man U players and have not really given them time to settle. But with a quick counter move, Ronaldo nearly scored.

Half time break came at a well deserved timing as both teams were going at each other for the 45 minutes.

Everton won two corners in quick succession after the break but nothing came out of both the corners. In the 50th minute, Tevez tried but was cleared away. Man U started to press once again and Everton has been soaking in the pressure for the last five minutes. Howard made a wonderful save off Tevez as he caught the deflected ball.

Loads of Man U pressure while Everton just continued to take it in while trying their best to push out of their half. It's the 70th minute and Man U still trying to break Everton. They brought in Saha to add to Man U's firepower. On the 73rd minutes, Hibbo made a school boy foul just outside the penalty area and that gave Ronaldo the opportunity to set up Rooney who nearly bulge Howard's net.

Tommy has come in for Yak and hopes to solidify the midfield. Pienaar seemed to be everywhere and he is the player that is pulling te strings for Everton. The Toffees won themselves a free kick in the 80th minute but once again, nothing came out of it.

Everton made their second change in the 85th minute, taking off harworking Timmy for Anichebe. In the 86th minute, Rooney's thunderbolt shot was pushed away by Howard.

Penalty! Ronaldo scores. Everton has created problems for themselves. Pienaar tripped Giggs in the box. Man U 2-1 Everton. Sickening, sickening game. Sigh.

But good play by Everton all round.

Score: Man U 2-1 Everton
Scorer: Timmy
Assist: Pienaar
Subs: Tommy, Anichebe

MAN UTD vs EVERTON - Preview

Everton is without Arteta, while Man U's Ferdinand does not even make it to the bench because of the Christmas party that went wrong. Alex Ferguson is not perturb by dropping his top players if they cross his path.

though it may look like Everton will profit from this, we should never under-estimate the depth that Man U has.

Even the newspapers, bookmakers and even the television hosts are expecting Everton to lose. We'll see if the naysayers are correct.

Predictor: Man U 1-2 Everton

UEFA CUP: Everton in Last 32

Everton topped the table for their group matches and will now face a team that finished third in their group - SK Brann. If they were to make it through to the next round, they will face either Rosenberg or Fiorentina.

Let's take it one step at a time and look at SK Brann first. A strong team from Norway even though they may have finished third in their group matches. But Everton has won the battles but not the war.

Last 32 is an achievement, but making it all the way would be heavenly!

AZ ALKMAAR vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Let's forget about the negatives and just look at the positives. It's been years since Everton has had it this good.

Everton left five senior players in England - Yobo, Timmy, Yak, Neville and Arteta - big names that would have affected any team. But Moyes had wanted to show that those players warming the bench were ready to take on the challenge of the current first teamers, and they really showed what they were made of.

AJ was a man on fire as he made sure that his name was on Moyes mind by scoring in the 1st minute. AJ battled his way through the AZ defence and nicely despatched the ball past the stunned opposing goalkeeper. AZ 0-1 Everton.

But a lapse of concentration saw AZ draw parity. Jag was nearest to the opposing striker but could not stop the ball from going in. AZ 1-1 Everton.

In the 43rd minute, Everton won a corner which was taken by Faddie. AJ once again created mayhem in the opposing penalty box. He instinctively cut back the ball which Lescott smashed it goalwards only to see it cleared off the line. But Jag was first off the block as he headed the ball back into the net! AZ 1-2 Everton.

AZ then clawed its way back with a nicely placed header that Lescott could not get the ball out. AZ 2-2 Everton. AZ was definitely not giving up.

Everton had the last say though. With Anichebe picking up a long ball, he moved the ball and saw Vaughany running into space from the blind side. A lovely high pass that saw Vaughany tapping the ball beyond the opposing defender and goalkeeper. Delicate delicate goal! AZ 2-3 Everton.

100% win in the Group stages, 7th consecutive away win, 13 games undefeated. Many records to be broken. What's more, youngsters Anichebe and Vaughany played brilliantly, AJ, Hibbo, Tommy and Faddie also gave good accounts of themselves. Moyes even had time to blood two young players - Vidarsson and 16 year-old Jack Rodwell. Keep the latter name in mind as he is now the youngest player to make his debut in Everton colours, beating Looney Rooney and even Vaughany.

What fine performance! Bring Manchester United on for the English Premier League match this Sunday. We may lose or draw this upcoming game, but Everton will make it difficult for our opposition.

Score: AZ 2-3 Everton
Scorer: AJ, Jag, Vaughany
Assist: Anichebe
Subs: Vidarsson, Vaughany, Rodwell

Actim Players Ranking: 181207

Everton players in the Top 100.

Arteta: 13th (252) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Lescott: 17th (244) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10), (18/12); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Yakubu: 18th (244); Best position: 18th
Howard: 38th (205) - Fifth best goalie (28/8); Third best goalie (4/9); Best position: 38th
Neville: 57th (186) - Best position: 53rd
Yobo: 74th (167) - Best position: 74th
Pienaar: 76th (164) - Best position: 76th
Ossie: 86th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Cars: 89th (150) - Best position: 87th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.
AJ: 96th (90) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Stubbsy: Nil - 80th (78) - Fifth best defender (21/8), (28/8); Best position: 18th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8), Best position: 5th

WEST HAM vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Everton has remain unchanged and the battle between West Ham and Everton continues.

West Ham started as they did in the previous match and they threatened Everton in the first couple of minutes. The opposition continued to press and they nearly scored in the 14th minute.

Somehow, Yak looked a little lonely up front with minimal support from Arteta and Timmy as they are playing rather deeply. Very little separate the two teams but whenever West Ham attacked with high balls, they looked dangerous. Everton was not closing the opposition quickly enough too.

There were many half chances for both sides but none were converted. But just before half time, the scrooge of West Ham strikes again! A nice cross into the penalty box by Arteta, a return header by Timmy who set up none other than Yak! This man seemed to have the midas touch. Scoring with his left and right legs, now he scores with his head. West Ham 0-1 Everton!

The starting of the 2nd half was a tight one once again. In the 56th minute, Everton won themselves a free kick which was taken by Arteta. The opposing goalie punched the ball away from the penalty area. The ball reached Cars who took a first time chance outside the box. The ball was streaking towards the top left of the net until it was headed away from goal by the opposing defender.

West Ham started to maintain the pressure on Everton in the 60th minute and the crowd was egging them on. Everton seemed to have moved all their players into their own half. Very dangerous play.

Everton nearly scored in the 68th minute when the opposing defenders just switched off as they played Yak off side but Ossie ran in from the blind side and picked up the ball on from an on-side position and chipped the keeper and it just missed the goal.

West Ham does not sit back as they continued to attack. The pressure was on Everton penalty area as West Ham continued their search for their equaliser. But Everton pressed back with Yak's header stopped by the opposing goalie and then the goalie made another save from Cars thunderbolt drive.

The West Ham crowd were getting a little restless with their team's misplaced passes. But the pressure was on once again on Everton but the West Ham players undid everything with further bad passes and crosses.

AJ came on for the tiring Yak and immediately made an impact. While West Ham tried their very best to equalise, Everton hit back and scored a second. With a long clearance from defence, the opposing defender could not get a clean header which AJ gratefully picked it up and coolly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.

Everton has put four goals past West Ham over the last two matches and the latter really did not have an answer to Everton.

Score: West Ham 0-2 Everton
Scorer: Yak, AJ
Assist: Timmy, Neville
Sub: AJ

WEST HAM vs EVERTON - Preview

Hope this will be a deja vu match as how it was played out on Wednesday.

West Ham will come back strong on two counts. Firstly, they are like a wounded animal ready for revenge. They would not have enjoyed one bit when they lost to Everton the last time, what's more in front of their home crowd.

Secondly, cup-tied players such as Solano will be back to play for West Ham. It'll be a tough match. However, Everton is in rich form and Yak should be up there creating problems for the opposing defence once again.

Predictor: West Ham 0-3 Everton

Carling Cup: WEST HAM vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

Everton fielded a strong team with only one forced change in the left back position where Lescott has slotted in for the injured Bainesy, while Jag moves into central defence.

For the first five minutes. both teams looked cautious and were gingerly testing each other's defence. Somehow, Everton's midfield looked a little flat with Arteta, Pienaar and Ossie not really imposing themselves. Shortly, West Ham scored in the 12th minute with both the central defence pair of Yobo and Jags not pressing the opponents for the ball, and for Howard running to claim the ball, only not to get it! Totally lathargic play! 1-0 down in this away match.

Everton seemed to be losing all the 50-50 chances and headers and have not really string any passes worth mentioning. Even Arteta's perfect crosses were deserting him.

Everytime West Ham breaks, they looked so dangerous.

About 30 minute has past and nothing meaningful has come out of Everton's play. Passes have continued to go astray. Only in the 38th minute that Everton made their first attack but without testing the opposing goalkeeper.

Then Everton woke up! In the 38th minute, Pienaar received the ball in the penalty area, controlled the ball and made a sublime pass to Ossie whose first time strike saw Everton draw themselves back to parity. West Ham 1-1 Everton.

Moyes really have alot to talk to the team about during the half time break and the first thing he might have mentioned in no uncertain terms was that Everton was giving the opposing team too much space and they would really have to close down the opposition.

Everton started much better in the second half. Timmy has started to fight for every ball. The 3,000 strong Everton supporters were really shouting themselves hoarse!

The two teams are battling well. But Everton seemed like they're starting to get lathargic once again. Everton might need to ring in one or two changes to liven things up a little. Timmy has battled hard but may just be in the need for hardworking AJ to toil the ground.

It's not a good sign when the Everton midfield goes quiet once again. Ossie was nowhere to be seen and Everton just can't seem to get the ball off West Ham.

Then West Ham gave a gift to Everton in the 87th minute!

With a high ball, West Ham defenders failed to clear the ball and with the muddle between the opposing goalie and his defenders, Yaks sneaked in to put the ball beyond the bumbling backline. West Ham 1-2 Everton.

That's the final result and Everton's through to the Semi-finals! Yaks scored once again! and 11 matches undefeated.

The irony? Everton meets West Ham this Saturday which the latter will be looking for revenge. Bring it on I say!

Score: West Ham 1-2 Evertom
Scorers: Ossie, Yaks
Assists: Pienaar, Jag

Actim Players Ranking: 111207

Everton players in the Top 100.

Arteta: 16th (237) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Lescott: 22nd (228) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Yakubu: 29th (207); Best position: 29th
Howard: 48th (185) - Fifth best goalie (28/8); Third best goalie (4/9); Best position: 42nd
Neville: 63rd (170) - Best position: 53rd
Ossie: 77th (153) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Yobo: 80th (151) - Best position: 80th
Pienaar: 83rd (149) - Best position: 83rd


Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

AJ: 96th (90) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Stubbsy: Nil - 80th (78) - Fifth best defender (21/8), (28/8); Best position: 18th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8); Best position: 5th
Cars: Nil - Best position: 87th (39)

EVERTON vs FULHAM - FULL TIME

So many positives today even though the weather placed a dampener on things.

Both teams were having a go at each other with Lescott making the opposing keeper save as early as the 2nd minute. Baines, Ossie, Cars, Pienaar and Timmy were all very lively in the first 10 minutes. Arteta has also caused mayhem in the opposing area with his pin-point corners and free kicks.

But Everton had to make a change. With a nice one-two that set Bainesy away on the left flank, he slowed to a stop as he had pulled his hamstring and had to be replaced by Jag in the 22nd minute.

Somehow with the change, the nature of the game seemed to lose its fluidity. Yaks looked a bit flat in the first half even though he was a ready runner. Playing as a loner striker, they will just have to find a way to break Fulham down. It was not one sided though Fulham has not made an impact in the final third. Half time.

Second half saw Everton attacking the way they did in the first 10 minutes of the first and it soon led to Everton's first goal. With a high header into the opposing penalty area, Timmy lashed the ball towards goal. The opposing goalie parried the ball only as far as Yaks who placed the ball beyond the goalie. 1-0 to Everton.

The goal has removed the shackles and Everton started to attack with pomp. But it did not mean that Everton did not have their fair share of scares from Murphy and Dempsey.

After an Ossie try that the opposing goalie somehow saved, Arteta once again took a sweet corner which Jag had a flick-on and Yaks headed the ball into the net. 2-0. Yaks seemed to have came alive in the 2nd half. Arteta had been delivering great crosses all throughout the game. Ossie also seemed to be having his better game today.

Jag is also showing what a quality player he is with him popping into the penalty box with headers and creating a nuisance of himself there.

Yaks created an opener in the 68th minute when he broke free from the offside trap and squared the ball to Arteta. The last man recovered in time to tap the ball beyond Arteta. One good chance went bagging.

In the 75th minute, Yaks ran after a high clearance and was behind the opposing defender. He used his body strength well and surged past the defender who made a quick recovery and slid the ball out for a corner.

That did not deter Yaks from scoring the third in the 78th minute. A nice through pass from Pienaar cut the opposing defence into half. Yaks took hold of the ball, cut back from a charging defender, and dispatched the ball nicely into the top right corner of the goal. 3-0! and Yaks has his hat-trick.

Off Timmy and Yaks who have clocked in a good shift. On came AJ and Faddie. This is Everton with depth as the substitutes could walk into most teams in the Premiership.

Faddie made the keeper save twice since coming on. Both AJ and Faddie looked lively too.

Wondering win. The first hat-trick in four years. Everton has also extended their unbeaten run to 10. Moyes is definitely the best manager for Everton in the 21st Century.


Score: Everton 3-0 Fulham
Scorer: Yaks (3)
Assists: Timmy, Jag, Pienaar
Subs: Jag, AJ, Faddie

EVERTON vs FULHAM - Preview

A few ex- Everton players will be in the Fulham team. McBribe who played really well for the club and can still pop in a goal or two. But he's generally being deployed as a substitute. Davis is another player who can pop a few goals. But I believe that Everton dropped them from the books at a good time.

They are no longer the players they were before. But they can prove me wrong in this match. Still, Everton should pip them to the three points. Valente and Hibbo are doubts but generally, the entire team is raring to go.

Predictor: Everton 1-0 Fulham

EVERTON vs ZENIT ST PETERSBURG - FULL TIME

This is the first time ever that Everton has made it to the last 32. The best that Everton has done was to get to the third round, and that was in 1964-65!

David Moyes and Bill Kenwright has definitely brought the club forward.

Everton started the game with fire. In the 2nd minute, Faddie took a throw-in close to the final third. The ball floated into the penalty area. The opponent's defenders failed to clear the ball which then landed in front of Arteta who chipped the ball over the goalie. The ball was subsequently cleared off the line. In the 8th minute, it was Faddie who skipped pass a tackle and tried to centre the ball to AJ who was in the penalty area, only to be cleared nervously by the opposing defender.

Everton was in luck. In the 28th minute, Everton was awarded a penalty as Timmy's goalward shot was deflected off a Zenit defender who was unfortunate. The ball had actually hit the defenders chest, but was sent off by the referee for handball.

Just dessert! Arteta missed the subsequent penalty shot.

Arteta then took a lovely free kick in the 35th minute which would have crept in if not for the acrobatics of Zenit goalkeeper.

Closer too, Cars shot rebounded off the left goalpost!

In the second half, Howard was needed to stop Zenit from taking the lead and Everton somehow went into a lull. The 85th minute changed the entire complex of things. With Arteta's corner, Lescott headed the ball towards goal but was blocked. Lescott had a second bite of the cherry but was blocked by the goalkeeper, and in came Timmy who slided in to put Everton in front.

Everton has taken a big stride in extending their UEFA Cup dream.

Score: Everton 1-0 Zenit
Scorer: Timmy
Assist: Lescott
Subs: Anichebe, Vaughany

Actim Players Ranking: 041207

Everton players in the Top 100.

Lescott: 18th (217) - Best defender (4/9); Second Best Defender(18/9), (2/10); Third Best Defender (25/9), (30/10), (6/11); Fourth Best Defender (9/10), (23/10); Fifth Best Defender (13/11), (27/11), (04/11) Best position: 9th
Arteta: 25th (207) - Fifth best midfielder (28/8), (30/10); Best position: 8th
Howard: 50th (168) - Fifth best goalie (28/8); Third best goalie (4/9); Best position: 42nd
Neville: 65th (154) - Best position: 53rd
Yakubu: 70th (151); Best position: 66th
Yobo: 92nd (134) - Best position: 84th
Pienaar: 98th (130) - Best position: 85th

Those who have previously made it to the top 100.

AJ: 96th (90) - Fifth best striker (4/9); Best position: 22nd
Hibbo: 100th (89) - Fourth best defender (14/8); Best position: 19th
Stubbsy: Nil - 80th (78) - Fifth best defender (21/8), (28/8); Best position: 18th
Ossie: Nil - 89th (66) - Fifth best midfielder (14/8); Best position: 9th
Anichebe: Nil - 84th (52) - Third best striker (14/8); Best position: 5th
Cars: Nil - Best position: 87th (39)

PORTSMOUTH vs EVERTON - FULL TIME

It was a totally uninteresting match between the two teams. This time round, Portsmouth was the better team with more shots on goals and they were also more threatening.

Moyes started with the same team that thrashed Sunderland last week. Valente is slowly claiming his place as left back. This means that Baines was not in the team. Joning Baines were Faddie andTommy.

Many of the Everton players did not perform up to par. Arteta on the left wing found it rather difficult to pass his markers and Pienaar had to resort to fouling his opponents. Everton needed Howard to be in top form to save two near goals. This was one game that Everton would love to forget. Nothing to crow about.

Score: Portsmouth 0-0 Everton
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Nil

PORTSMOUTH vs EVERTON - Preview

After Everton's emphatic win, they now have to knuckle themselves them and focus on the next match. Redknapp might be facing problems with the police probe, but it does not mean that his team is not dangerous.

Portsmouth is one place above Everton, and they also have home advantage. What's more, they have a deadly striker in the form of Benjani. Yaks may not be the best for Everton, but at least he's scoring now.

Predictor: Portsmouth 1-1 Everton