What a wonderful win, even though it's only by a goal!
This is a game of many ifs. If Jelavic does well, Strac and Anichebe's place will be threatened as Moyes only plays with one striker. If any of the central defenders were to falter, Jag is ready to take his place. If Everton can't get themselves into Europe, Moyes might just pack his bag and leave.
For 15 minutes, everything seem to be on par for both teams. Everton is biting at their opponents and closing them down with much tenacity. Coleman don't seem to be very comfortable on the left flank. At present, Moyes strategy was to play Drenthe in his preferred right wing role.
Everton made their intent known in the 20th minute when Felli on target shot was deflected away by the Tottenham goalkeeper's out-stretched leg.
Goodison erupts and what a wonderful goal. A nice sliding pass by Bainesy. Picked up by Ossie who ran at the defenders. No one picked him up and he was allowed to put in a lovely low cross. Jelavic was there to direct the ball into the net. Wonderful poacher's goal! Everton 1-0 Tottenham.
Everton's pressure on Tottenham was coming in with quick succession. In the 24th minute, a thunderous shot by Drenthe saved by Tottenham's goalkeeper.
Jelavic showed that he has fire in his belly. He pleaded for the opportunity to take the free kick and his shot blitzed the palm of the Tottenham goalkeeper.
Everton players seemed to be possessed. All ready to run, tackle and take pot-shots at the goal. Felli was also on top of his game. His tackle in the first 10 minutes of the game really showed Tottenham what they should expect for the next 80 mins!
The second half is not going as well for Everton as Tottenham have consolidated their strength and very quickly puts in a meaningful attack right from the start. Everton were just soaking in the pressure. Drenthe has put in his share of hard work. He's being replace by Rodwell in the 65th minute.
Everton had a great chance in the 70th minute where Coleman made a lovely sliding pass to Ossie who shot on target. Palmed away by the Tottenham goalkeeper.
Jelavic was replaced by Strac in the 78th minute. He will run all day. Final change of the day, Coleman is replaced by Jag in the 81st minute.
The last 10 minute was nerve-wrecking. Tottenham continued to attack wave after wave and near the end, Saha's strike should have cost Everton their 3 points, but the ball chose to strike the post!
A wonderful three points for Everton.
Score: Everton 1-0 Tottenham
Scorer: Jelavic
Assist: Ossie
Subs: Rodwell, Strac, Jag
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