Everton overcame a spirited Barnsley side to eventually triumph 5-3 in tonight’s League Cup second round tie. Here’s our player ratings for the enthralling encounter.
Joel Robles- Seemed to lack confidence on his return to action, and was very poor for Barnsley’s second. Won’t have done enough to displace an under fire Tim Howard, despite some solid saves in the latter part of the game. 5
Matthew Pennington- A night to remember for the academy product in more ways than one. Given his debut after a successful loan spell at Coventry last season, but hauled off at half-time as part of Martinez’s tactical reshuffle. Showed energy and some quality on the ball, yet suspect for Barnsley’s first. 5
John Stones- Started the game in spite of his much publicised transfer request, and seemed a tad fazed by the whole experience. Jumped over Winnall’s shot for the home side’s first, then contrived to give possession away more frequently than we’re used to. Not his usual composed self, in truth. 5
Phil Jagielka- Failed to lead by example in a woeful first half performance. Partly at fault for Winnall’s opener and suspect in the air for most of the game. 5
Bryan Oviedo- Everton’s weak link on the night. Way off the pace after a long absence through injury. Targeted to great effect by the speedy Marley Watkins. 4
Mo Besic- Typical Besic: Commited in the tackle, energetic and economical with the ball, yet overly aggressive at times, as we’ve come to expect, and also poor positionally. Tired towards end and now must start staking stronger case for inclusion. 6
Tom Cleverley- Another industrious performance from Everton’s Mr Dependable, who showed valuable versatility when switched to right-back. Filled in well, too- much to his credit. 6
Aiden McGeady- Frustrating performance from the mercurial winger. Spurned a golden chance at 0-0 and rightly substituted at half-time after a less than productive 45 minutes. 4
Steven Naismith- Works tirelessly for the cause, yet will never have enough quality on the ball to be a guaranteed starter in Martinez’s system. Scored one but missed two great chances. 5
Kevin Mirallas- Quiet in the first half, yet much improved after the break. Stunning opener reminded Roberto Martinez what he’s been missing. 7
Romelu Lukaku- Erratic performance from the Belgian international, who only scores so highly due to his two-goal salvo. Poor once again with back to goal, but deadly when given an opportunity to strike. Everton’s main threat in the box, as per. 7
SUBS:
Gerard Deulofeu- Half-time introduction sparked Everton revival. Made 3 goals with his unique blend of pace and skill. Sensational on nights like this, when he gets it right. 8 (Man of the Match)
Ross Barkley- Another substitute who helped turn the game in Everton’s favour. Lovely weighted pass for Everton’s fifth. 7
