Everton advanced to the quarter final stage of the Capital One cup after defeating Norwich City 4-3 on penalties. Normal time finished in a 1-1 stalemate with either side struggling to take control of the game. The following paragraphs will discuss the three most important talking points from last nights game.
Should Joel be Everton’s number 1?
For quite sometime Tim Howard’s constant inclusion in Roberto Martinez’ starting 11 has been a contentious issue. His recent poor form has lead to the frustration of a large portion of the Goodison Park faithful. With dismal displays against both Manchester United and Arsenal in the Premier League it was clear that this game against Norwich should be Joel’s chance to shine. And that he did.
During normal time, Joel stepped up to plate by commanding his area well (something which Howard seems incapable of doing) and also making a smart save from Vadis Odjidja (Yes, Vadis Odjidja) in the first half.
His second half display was also solid and he saved Everton’s bacon with a fine stop from Lewis Grabban’s header at the death of normal time. Joel also stamped his presence on the penalty shoot out saving a low shot from Wes Hoolahan and giving Everton a much needed advantage in the shoot-out.
Yet despite these heroics it seems unlikely that Joel will continue to play in Everton’s first team, as Martinez has already stated that Howard will return for the weekend’s gmae against Sunderland. For me personally this is the wrong decision. Joel played a vital role in last night’s victory and deserves a prolonged inclusion in the first team. Also what message does this send out to fringe players?
Having a goalkeeper that your defence is comfortable in is of the utmost importance for Everton this season.
Grinding out results.
It is a cliche in football that the best teams in football that can have bad games and still grind out a victory and this was the case for Everton last night, and for the majority of this cup run.
Everton were nowhere near their best in this game and still progressed through to the next round. The same can be said for the games against Reading and Barnsley. In the past Everton have too often been a team who folded in the face of adversity yet this season it seems that they are a team who can grind out a result with grit and determination.
Whilst not playing well Everton are still racking up victories. This bodes well for the fututre and can only add to the appeal of this cup run. If we click into form at the right time the trophy could well be there for the taking.
Here’s hoping.
Funes Mori continues to impress.
Ramiro Funes Mori is quickly becoming a cult hero at Goodison Park. His display last night was both accomplished and solid and he is adapting well to English football.
Currently deputising for Phil Jagielka, the Argentinian international once again produced a display worthy of a starting position, marshalling the defence with ease and also limiting Norwich to few real chances on the Everton goal.
His early form is promising and if he can continue to impress he will no doubt cause a selection headache for Roberto Martinez. Could Everton possibly play with three centre backs in order to accomodate Funes Mori? Or potentially drop the club captain or the most eagerly anticipated prospect in Stones? While deemed to be the long term replacement for the ageing Jagielka for me it is only a matter of time before Mori claims a starting birth, especially if Martinez continues to start Howard. His aerial prowess acts as a insurance policy in the Everton box as Howard has struggled in the air recently. Having Funes Mori would definitely have limited the damage that Arsenal inflicted on us at the Emirates.
