Though Everton were on the losing end of today's fixture, there are certainly reasons to be cheerful for the blue half of Merseyside. They came roaring out of the blocks, and although they were eventually stifled by their rampant opponents, they managed to come within a whisker of several scoring opportunities. Martinez lamented the lack of an end product in today's performance, but anyone can have a bad day at the office. The fact is that Everton look every inch a dangerous side, emboldened by depths of creativity in the midfield and capable of cutting you apart through the middle see Kevin Mirallas' darting runs or on the wings. Indeed, they even led their much-fancied opponents for a small time. The reason for their loss partially came from their inability to live with City's Silva-Toure axis a problem exacerbated by Gareth Barry's enforced absence. They badly needed a calming influence at the eye of the sky blue storm, but with the former England international unable to play his old club, they suffered without him. If the side can keep their new signing fit, they'll have the defensive steel in midfield they need to deal with the big boys. If there can be such a thing as a good loss, this was surely it for Everton. So that's what I think. What do you think? Feel free to comment!
Durham University graduate and qualified sports journalist. Very good at sitting down and watching things. Can multi-task this with playing computer games. Football Manager addict who has taken Shrewsbury Town to the summit of the Premier League.
You can follow me at @Ed_OwenUK, if you like ramblings about Newcastle United and A Place in the Sun. If you don't, I don't know what I can do for you.
