Everton Out of the FA Cup

Poor game by Everton. This time, they could not pull the rabbit out of the bag when they went a goal behind.

Moyes has placed the most experience team out to win the match even when this was just an FA Cup. The manager knows that this is one ticket to Europe as the league front has dried up. Two changes made - Bily and Rodwell in for Felli and Becks.

Everton had full control of the match in the first 20 minutes with Coleman coming closest with a downward header that saw the bal skimmed past the post. 25th minute - With their very first foray into Everton's half, Reading scored. It came straight from a corner that was improperly cleared. Everton 0-1 Reading.

Suddenly the pressure was on Everton. A back-paddling Distin in the 28th minute was caught short. The ball was taken off him and Howard was forced to make an important save.

Everton was thought a lesson of making it count when you have the possession. Also, a 4-5-1 formation at home is not too attacking minded, isn't it? Close to the end of the first half, Ossie headed the ball just wide.
Half time whistle brought to a close a rather embarassing half for Everton and was led by a chorus of boos.

Moyes ringed in two changes to prove his discontent. Becks and Anichebe came in for the ineffective Bily and Coleman.

30 minutes in and Everton has nothing to show for. Everton needed to press harder as that allows the visitors lesser space.

Good chance in the 78th minute. Saha moved the ball around in the left wing. He puts in a lovely cross for the incoming Ossie. A sweet first time shot but the ball was palmed away by the opposing goalkeeper. So, so close.

Final change in the 87th minute, Baxter for Neville.

Overall, it was a horrible match that the players an fans should forget about it. Anichebe did not provide many good touches. Bad, bad game that Everton did not deserve to win

Score: Everton 0-1 Reading
Scorer: Nil
Assist: Nil
Subs: Becks, Anichebe, Baxter