Plucky depleted Everton sock it to The Villains! | OneFootball

Aston Villa 0 - 1 Everton

Aston Villa were the hosts for Everton on the road in the Premier League at Villa Park this afternoon. And they set the mood with Rohl hitting the post inside 12 seconds. Jake O'Brien scored a perfectly good goal, disallowed by linesman and VAR, before Barry produced an exquisite finish for the only goal of the game. 

Jack Grealish returns from his double yellow card suspension while Thierno Barry is also back in the starting line-up. They replace Tyler Dibling and Beto, while Seamus Coleman returns on the bench.

Michael Keane is still suspended; Branthwaite and Dewsbury-Hall are getting closer to returning, while Tim Iroegbunam remains sidelined by injury.

First Half

Everton in primrose and navy kicked off, and Merlin Rohl stabs at the ball, beats Martinez and hits the post! Everton came forward again, Mykolenko invited by Grealish to cross the ball in, but Martinez was awake to it and denied Barry.

McNiel fouled Buendia, but Villa played it short but Buendia skipped away from McNiel, Rogers scooping his cross over the Everton bar. A very clear warning shot.

Any touch on a Villa player earned a free-kick, Garner with the third on Tielemans, Rodgers almost dribbling in. Cash then touched Grealish and Everton got a free-kick. But Villa were building possession, helped when O'Brien gifted them the ball. Rohl then did the same, Maatsen's shot smothered by Pickford.

Everton tried to pass it around but the Villa press was all over them, forcing Grealish back. McGinn went down, clutching his knee, replaced by Guessand.

Barry won a Pickford punt and it saw Villa concede a corner, Garner delivering to the far post but it was easily cleared. McNeil and Patterson drove down the right but Patterson's cross was ballooned high for Marticnz to gather. But Everton pressed and Barry won Everton another corner. Again beyond the far post ans Grealish could not penetrate the crowd with his shot.

Everton were pressing high again but Buendia looked to break out and McNeil had to tug his shirt at the cost of an early yellow card. Still, Everton looked to be getting more of the ball and passing it around... until Tarkowski gave it away.

A good turnover saw Everton push forward again but Grealish's shot was blocked. Tarkowski forced a turnover and played it early to Barry who totally lacked the physicality needed to protect the ball and was easily humbled.

Tielemans [picked out a brilliant ball forward to Guessand but Mykolenlo did enough to put him off and Pickford gathered. Rohl did well to drive forward, Mykolenko getting a rare shot on target.

From the corner, taken short, Jake O'Brien scored off Mykolenko's cross but Armstrong was flagged offside but never touched the ball. Another astounding VAR decision to uphold the linesman's wrong call -- any reason to deny a goal.

At the other end, O'Brien had to block a close shot from Wilkins, and Rodgers also had a pop from the corner, Villa keeping up the pressure until Pickford could take control.

An extended Everton attack should have yielded something but didn't. A long throw by O'Brien was allowed to bounce all the way through to Martinez.

Tielemans picked out Guessand and Pickford could only stare at his looping header as it sailed over him and smacked off the bar. Pickford them fummbed the corner, giving away another.

Grealish tried again but could not get his shot past Cash but won a corner. The corner back to Mykolenko was a total waste, but ended up with another long throw from O'Brien, that only saw Villa break forward before they fouled O'Brien.

Despite some shaky moments, it had been a half of remarkable promise from the severly depelted Blues who should have gone in one or two goals to the good.

Second Half

Garner committed a foul to stop Buendia breaking at speed: yellow card. After some more contentious refereeing, Villa get forward, Tarkowski with a key block before Tielemans headed wide.

Villa were pushing forward with some intensity, which Armstrong lacked when asked to clear. Everton finally worked the ball forward through Armstrong and Grealish but Garner's shot from 30 yards was simply ridiculous nonsense.

O'Brien did well to marshall Guessand away from the Everton goal. Bogarde cuts down Grealish. Garner had toi chase Rodgers but kept his hands off him until into the dee, when he clearly pushed him from behind. Referee must have seen it but did not want to give Garner a second yellow, so turned an incredible blind eye.

From a Torres error, McNeil saw his chance to do something, curling his shot but Martinez parries it wide and Thierno Barry was sharp as a knife, dinking his chip beautifully over Martinez and into the net despite the desperate effort of Konsa to clear it off the line.

The Villains were well cheesed off and tried their best to push up, but O'Brien was not letting them past. Mykolenko tried his hand with the long throw, which bounced off Barry and into the hands of Martinez.

Tielemans came around the back and looked ot score but played it back, Rodgers to shoot but Grealish threw his body down to block the shot away.

Villa pushed up again and Rodgers seemed to walk into a cross before he skied an easier chance. Villa drove forward again and the ball ran through Rodgers's legs before Garner cleared. But it came right back and Patterson smashed it away behind,

Rodgers with a superb strike toward the top corner saw Pickford launch himself and parry it over in excellent style. Villa kept pressing until a corner was delivered straight to Pickford.

Garner did well to play a deep pass forward for Armstrong to just keep in and cross... but where the hell was Barry?? No one there to finish what would have been a killer goal.

It became scrappy as Moyes relied on the starting XI to keep the Villains at bay, into the final 15 minutes. Hemmings strode forward but his shot was blocked and cleared.

Rodgers tried to skip his way through but tripped and fell over. Buendia drove his shot into Tarkowski. Digne got in the act, his cross causing havoc but his follow-up high kick was straight to Pickford. Beto on for Barry.

Villa seemed to lose a little cohesion, making some embarrassing errors for a Top 4 side as the minutes ticked by and they looked less and less like scoring. Beto drove forward but failed to play it across for Armstrong and ended up fumbling the ball behind for a goal-kick.

Into 4 minutes of added time and Everton's turn to push up, McNeil awarded a free-kick, Garner working hard to keep the ball and win another.

Tielemans produced an excellent cross that was headed just wide of Pickford's far post and Villa had no answer in the end.

Aston Villa: Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen (71' Digne), Bogarde [Y:56'] (71' Hemmings) , Tielemans, McGinn (18' Guessand), Rogers, Buendia, Watkins.

Subs not Used: Bizot, Wright, Lindelof, Garcia, Mings, Jimoh-Aloba.

Everton: Pickford; Mykolenko, O’Brien, Tarkowski, Patterson; Garner [Y:47'], Rohl, Armstrong, Grealish, Barry (83' Beto), McNeil [Y:23'].

Subs not Used: Travers, King, Coleman, Aznou, Campbell, Welch, Dibling.

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Michael Kenrick 3 Posted 18/01/2026 at 15:34:44

Yeah coz that Dibling lad, he's pants init.

Doesn't defend, just wants to showboat like Grealish. Doesn't defend. Big Bad Davey shouts at him and he just curls up into a little tiny ball.

Sad really... really sad.

Neil Cremin 4 Posted 18/01/2026 at 15:35:02

Is this not the same line-up that beat Forest with Grealish instead of Dibling, who most complained should not have been changed. Also, if I can recall, McNeil had a role in both goals that night.

Who will make more impact in team? McNeil or Dibling? I wish I knew.

Danny O\'Neill 5 Posted 18/01/2026 at 15:38:56

I already mentioned on the other thread, but to all of us amongst the travelling blue army this evening and wherever you're watching, let's bring the points home.

Tony Heron 6 Posted 18/01/2026 at 15:40:48

Wow only 8 subs including 2 keepers and an unfit Coleman. What's the problem with having another young lad on the bench?!

Neil Cremin 7 Posted 18/01/2026 at 15:40:54

Yes, Danny.

Good to hear a positive voice, COYB

Eric Haworth 8 Posted 18/01/2026 at 15:52:51

Well said, Danny @5

Plenty of us Blues heading off from Yew Tree now to the ground, loud n proud. COYB💙

Alan J Thompson 9 Posted 18/01/2026 at 15:55:58

Tony (#6);

It's Mr Moyes, he has a problem with the number 9, the Devil's number.

Mike Powell 10 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:04:30

The bench looks awful.

Rob Hooton 11 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:04:40

We seem to be better away than at home at the moment, so there's every chance we can upset the odds and win this.

I imagine we might see Beto, Dibling, and Aznou at some point in the second half, I'd like to see that anyhow but you never know with Moyes.

After his cameo at the weekend, I'd say that Aznou deserves half an hour to show what he can do -- hope we see the good McNeil and not the anonymous one.

John Wignall 13 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:13:04

He could have played Aznou in left midfield with Jack Grealish in the middle, instead of playing McNeil.

Something different? Not Davey.

Ged Simpson 14 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:13:36

Link?

Kevin Molloy 15 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:18:12

All these comments: 'Moyes, what are you playing at' etc... Can we not acknowledge we have seven players out?

Do people expect us to storm places like Villa with seven out?Fantasy Island in here.

Si Cooper 16 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:20:15

Anything is possible but today it's high-flying Villa -- not stumbling Forest.

We are unlikely to be able to break quickly in large numbers so we have to be immaculate in defence and perfect in possession, putting away whatever chances we can force.

Always living in hope. Come on, you confounding Blues!

Ajay Gopal 17 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:20:38

I don't see McNeil in the warm-up.

Aznou is warming up with the rest of the lads. I wonder if McNeil picked up a late problem?

Tony Abrahams 18 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:20:43

Branthwaite, Gueye, Alcaraz, Iroegbunam, Ndiaye, Dewsbury-Hall and Keane. Seven members of the first team squad down and look at the state of our bench?

I'd say three, possibly four players short, from fielding our strongest team, and look at how completely threadbare we look.

Fail to prepare, prepare to fail; this is a game that could have had so much riding on it for the expectant Evertonians amongst us, and for those who have travelled.

I hope the team put in a worthy performance because an unexpected win today would put us in a decent position points-wise and keep the season interesting for those of us who aren't losing interest by the day!

Daniel A Johnson 19 Posted 18/01/2026 at 16:30:32

Safe to say Lukaku will have more impact on the match than McNeil.

Neil Tyrrell 20 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:06:30

How the fuck is that disallowed?

A perfectly good goal.

Ajay Gopal 21 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:19:35

Rohl and Barry having good games. Everton unlucky not to be ahead at half-time.

The offside decision against Everton seems contentious.

John Collins 22 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:22:09

Good first half; I'm pleased with our high press.

More of the same please!

Michael Kenrick 23 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:22:56

There was absolutely nothing wrong with that goal.

Yes, Armstrong was in an offside position; yes, he jumped with the defender... but did nothing to affect the ball or the defender's access to it.

So exactly why the fuck was it disallowed? Absolutely criminal decision.

Somebody in football needs to take this nonsense up with PGMOL and stop them from finding any reason they can to disallow perfectly good goals. It is completely ruining the game.

Alan J Thompson 24 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:27:54

That would have been quite a start with the only worry being that it might have been all we tried all night. Rohl didn't hit it well but first time took their keeper by surprise.

We still need to pass a lot more crisply as at times the ball barely reaches its target. Villa could have had three and at times our central defenders don't look too interested in marking and drop back too far to challenge for the ball.

The Ref looked a bit of a homer after carding McNeil. I thought it might be an interesting afternoon but he let Villa off for a couple similar to McNeil's.

I wondered when the Villa player hit Tarkowski with an outstretched arm if it wasn't a bit like the "dangerous" play that saw Keane sent off?

Then we have VAR finding another version of offside to disallow a goal. Do you have to touch it or defenders to be offside or not?

Dave Abrahams 25 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:29:43

John (22),

Yes, I doubt anyone could be less than happy with that performance considering the squad but that 11 out there are playing like a team.

What was wrong with that goal? I couldn't believe it was disallowed. Yes, more of the same please -- without those hooky decisions!

Christy Ring 26 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:37:08

Another shocking decision against us unsurprisingly by VAR.

Very impressed with Armstrong again:

Tony Abrahams 27 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:38:53

I have been very impressed with the way we are playing. I love to see a team play compact, leaving no space in between the lines and then counter-attacking with purpose and width. I would never get bored of watching us playing if we played with this type of system every week.

The difference Patterson makes to the overall balance of the team is there for everyone to see but it's only half-time so hopefully we can keep our levels of concentration up for the next 50 minutes.

I'm only watching this game because it's Everton and, hand on heart, if I was watching another game and witnessed yet another shocking decision like the one that has cost us a goal, I'd have turned the television off.

I'm at a stage where I simply can't stand what these absolutely embarrassing officials are doing to a sport that I love because the ineptitude bordering on a complete lack of integrity is simply driving me away from watching the game.

Oliver Molloy 28 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:49:02

Michael,

Too many pundits, managers, players, ex-players, owners, CEO's all sitting on the fence and not calling out terrible decisions at the top of their voices -- it will only change when this starts to happen.

When a decision to disallow a legitimate "non-interfering goal " like O'Brien's today -- the VAR and should be punished in some way.

VAR has and is ruining the game.

Garner just got away with one !

Neil Tyrrell 30 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:51:23

Disallow that, you fuckers!!!

This has a Man Utd away feeling about it, depleted squad overcoming the odds.

Come on, you Blues!!! 💙

Sean Kearns 31 Posted 18/01/2026 at 17:54:04

Why did we ever change from this back 4 after it worked so well against Forest too?

Jake O'Brien is a brick wall in the middle and, even though Patterson isn't amazing, the balance he brings just benefits the team.

Neil Tyrrell 32 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:03:49

Save of the season candidate there!

Cheers, Jordan!

Martin Berry 33 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:29:10

Barry and Rohl played very well and you can see improvement in both as they get familiar with the Premier League, it's down to patience.

Tarkowski was brilliant in defense and if Tuchel does not pick Garner in the next England squad after that performance...

Kevin Molloy 34 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:29:38

A brilliant finish against the world's best goalkeeper.

That's the sort of moment that makes careers.

Alan J Thompson 35 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:30:01

The effort was there but Villa didn't look too good at finishing but while Barry does do things that make you wonder he then finishes what was not the easiest of chances with a lovely flick come lob over the keeper from close in.

Had to laugh at the commentator on a moment on camera for Moyes: "He's not great at giving happy faces."

Lee Courtliff 36 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:30:22

Brilliant away performance considering the players we have missing, and that was a deft finish from Thierno.

Well done everyone.

Bill Fairfield 37 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:31:15

Didn't see that result coming.

Very happy to be proved wrong.

Shaun McGough 38 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:33:15

I hope all the Moyes haters and McNeil haters shut up now as they may have to give credit to them both and actually support the Blues instead of coming up with their normal nonsense whining.

Well done, Blue Boys and Moyes.

Oliver Molloy 39 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:33:29

Got to say, wasn't expecting this result so over the moon -- great performance all round.

Garner was the pick of our players (he could easily have been sent off), Rohl and Armstrong not far behind and Barry is definitely getting better. We all know it was two-nil really! UTFT

John Wignall 40 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:33:29

Well done, Blues.

I didn't see that coming.

George Cumiskey 41 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:33:57

Great result, a Moyes masterclass.

He comes unstuck when he's expected to win.

John Williams 42 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:34:47

We cannot keep Moyes as our manager, no idea, too defensive, killing the game. Never gives youth a chance.

Past his best, should never have appointed him in the first place.

Ian Wilkins 43 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:35:09

As a regular criticiser of Moyes, I have to give him full credit for that set-up today, and the team for executing it. Brilliant away win.

We're better away from home. Don't have to make the play, suits us.

Good displays from all, Garner was superb.

Les Callan 44 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:35:10

Credit where credit is due.

Excellent win.

Brendan McLaughlin 45 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:38:40

Feared the worst... hoped for a draw.

He's got red hair...

Christy Ring 46 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:40:40

A superb result, brilliant finish from Barry.

Garner and Armstrong were immense, and can we keep O'Brien in the centre, and Patterson at fullback?

Hopefully our injured players and Afcon players are on the way back. Things are looking good.

Merle Urquart 47 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:40:50

I watched the first half but anxiety went through the roof so l went out.

Just got the result...huzzah!!! Fucking brilliant!

l dish it out through frustration when we underperform but this is brilliant... I can't wait for MotD.

David McMullen 48 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:42:52

Fabulous result!!!

Kieran Kinsella 49 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:46:08

All those lauding Moyes … this is the Faustian bargain.

He throws the cups every year, generally throws games against “big clubs”... He claws enough 1-0 league wins to stay above the strugglers but never really challenges the top teams.

So this result isn't, in of itself, surprising. How many times have we seen him have a February renaissance after a miserable Christmas and cup exit?

Then he will peter out in May, start half-baked in August, pick up form after the League Cup exit in September, then rinse and repeat for the second half of the season.

Tom Bowers 50 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:47:51

Whilst some referees are poor, VAR has become a joke!!

Players are pushing and shoving in the box but you can bet only the keeper will draw the foul. It's a cop out for the referee.

Still those leg-break over-the-ball tackles go unpunished many times and should be a straight red.

Anyway, a tremendous result by the Blues against all the odds again. I hope Patterson keeps his place as he is a natural right-back; whilst not the best, he can only improve if starting there instead of O'Brien.

Andy Meighan 51 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:49:24

What a win, absolutely fantastic.

I did say earlier I fancied us, why I don't know given our poor record there, but I think McGinn going off helped us big time.

My only gripe is VAR for disallowing O'Brien's goal, an absolutely disgraceful decision, and I hope Moyes brings it up.

Great great win and, with players to come back, the only way is up.

John Collins 52 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:49:56

The reward for pressing in numbers, imo.

We play our best football this season when we press mid and high in numbers.

Credit to the manager when it's due.

Neil Tyrrell 53 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:50:27

Dwight showed why it's almost (Gueye excepted) never a bad idea to shoot from 20 yards out. Their annoying prick keeper doesn't smother it or push it wide and Barry is there to chip it home.

Great performance from everyone today, reminiscent of Old Trafford. Brilliant save from Pickford. Realistically 3 points at most from safety now, let's fix our worrying home form and start looking up again.

Shaun McGough 54 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:50:35

John Williams @42….

How old is our goalscorer today? A player that he's kept faith in, mate.

And as for your other Moyes comment… absolutely typical nonsensical whining from another Everton hater.

Tony Heron 55 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:52:31

If only we could play all our games away!

Craig Walker 56 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:53:09

We need to get some home wins, starting a week tomorrow. We can still have a decent season. Hope this doesn't paper over the recruitment we need this month.

I thought Garner was Man of the Match but an honourable mention to McNeil who I thought had his best game in ages.

Fair play to Moyes. He seems to be able to get a reaction from a poor result.

Kevin Molloy 57 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:53:22

What a sour load of bollocks, Kieran.

Phillip Warrington 58 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:53:27

I would like to know who people want to replace Moyes with?

Every manager who has replaced him since he left has not worked out. And every manager except maybe Martinez and Benitez have been greeted cheerfully by fans who believed they would take us to the next stage.

I don't know why people think we can go toe to toe with the big teams. Today, the players played the way they were supposed to play and the system worked.

I would really like to see Moyes with some money behind him. Some managers just work at a club for whatever reason and I believe Moyes is that man for us. The club has that -- now they need to make sure the support staff are around him: coaches, scouts and medical staff.

Brendan McLaughlin 59 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:53:32

And there it is @49!

We've just beaten a very good Villa side on their home turf but...

Mick O\'Malley 60 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:53:49

A brilliant defensive performance from the whole back 4, what a save by Pickford!!

The midfield battled away well, Garner and Rohl were excellent, Armstrong cool on the ball, Grealish relieving the pressure and winning us free kicks.

McNiel played well and helped Patterson out when needed, while the much-maligned Barry took his goal superbly and won plenty in the air and chased and pressed.

Brilliant away performance. To be fair, we've been great away from home, just need to improve the home form. We're in with a shout of finishing in the Euro places!!!

Neil Tyrrell 61 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:55:29

Andy @51,

I just saw Moyes in his post-match interview say he wasn't surprised at the decision given other calls against us this season.

Subtle but sharp dig. It was the interviewer who brought it up.

Brian Denton 62 Posted 18/01/2026 at 18:58:21

Just coming away from the ground. That was our best performance of the season, given the opposition.

Dr Jekyll was a model of consistency compared to those infuriating Blues.

Christy Ring 63 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:00:40

Kieran #49,

Come on... you're better than that!

Terry Farrell 64 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:00:58

The Patterson detractors need to own up. This lad has had an awful time injury-wise and he is still probably less than 100% fit but he is good on the ball and gets forward. He contributed today, so well done, son.

O'Brien's pace in the centre is awesome and he cannot be taken out of there! Tarkowski, Rohl and Garner were all top drawer today. Coyb

Joe McMahon 65 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:01:18

Brilliant, I didn't expect this at all!

Patterson at right-back and O'Brien in the centre works. I hope this carries on. Good performance all round!

Ian Bennett 66 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:02:28

Garner, Armstrong and Co -- outstanding, well in.

Down on numbers, but not spirit.

Plenty have said that we lack character... well, James Garner just showed it in front of the England manager and now shaded Gibbs-White, Wharton, Anderson and Rogers.

David West 67 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:02:31

Not much wrong with that performance for the Moyes Out brigade! With the bare bones of a squad, they pulled it out the bag.

I've said it a lot, we look so much better sitting back and countering. I thought Rohl did really well on only his second start, so I'm not writing him off like loads on TW. He showed a bit of tenacity and quality.

Likewise Barry, who won most things in the air and, if we got bodies a bit closer to him, it would pay off even more.

Garner continues to impress but I was a bit disappointed with Grealish. Pickford yet again wins us at least 2 points with that save!!!

I didn't expect anything from this game against a team who have swept everyone away at home, so excellent result and bring the boys home for the next game.

Raymond Fox 68 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:05:59

Well, what about that then.!!

We are better suited by away football: I'm surprised and not surprised -- if that makes any sense. It's when we play at home I get the willies.

Can we give the manager praise instead of incessant moaning we get from the same suspects every week?

Shaun McGough 69 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:06:41

Kieran @49…

What a brilliant blue you are.

Annika Herbert 70 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:10:25

Credit where it's due once again, that's a terrific result and one we badly needed. Credit to all 11 players for hanging in there and grabbing the 3 points.

With our Afcon players due back in time for the next game, maybe we can afford to be a little more adventurous in our next home contest?

But a well-earned and unexpected 3 points on the road is not to be sniffed at.

Mark Taylor 71 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:10:46

To be fair ,and for better or worse, Moyes doesn't generally promote youth unless he absolutely has to.

Dibling, a near record signing who played in the Premier League doesn't get a look in, nor does Aznou. Patterson and Rohl were only out there because they had to be, Beto was picked ahead of Barry and Armstrong was sent off to Preston and only recalled because of injury and Afcon.

Of the above, Dibling has sadly proved Moyes right. Less so the others. He's a decent manager but not exactly renowned for bringing through youth.

Great result and performance today, good throughout the team but Jimmy Garner is moving to another level. I don't like the idea of him being out of contract. There will be people sniffing around.

Tony Heron 72 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:11:18

Garner was superb. Not only in his own play but in the way he bossed and organised our midfield.

Encouraging team mates into the middle of the park to block Villa from playing through the lines and forcing them wide. Future captain?

Shaun Parker 73 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:12:30

Where the hell has that performance come from???

John Collins 74 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:14:18

Tony 73.

He won't be a future player if we don't sign him... never mind a future captain.

I think he can play for any Premier League side. The agents will be down his ear.

Mick O\'Malley 75 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:17:38

Just seen that we've won 10 away games since last January, the most along with Arsenal... now if we could just improve that home form!

I agree with the Patterson comments above; I've been saying the same for ages, he hasn't been able to build momentum through injury but he's a decent player as far as I'm concerned.

He's bound to make the odd mistake but let's just get behind him. Same with Barry, okay, he's looked a bit ungainly at times but he's scored some good goals for us, that was a sharp finish today.

I've been behind him since he came, he's moved country into a new league so he's bound to have found it a bit of a shock, speed and physicality wise, but since Christmas he's got a few goals and it's a thankless task up there on your own.

He's a far better player than Beto. I thought he was great today, winning headers, chasing and closing down. There's bound to be games where he looks like he's not up to it but he'll get better. Just get behind the lad, he looks a confidence player.

Les Callan 76 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:20:38

Might be a slight technical point lads, but the disallowed goal was not entirely down to VAR.

Okay, they didn't allow the goal, but the linesman initially ruled it out. So, no var, no goal anyway.

Ian Bennett 77 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:20:54

The team is set up to play away from home. I think that's clear.

Defend narrow and head it away is a strength. The difference under Moyes vs previos managers being a bit more quality in the turnover.

There will be huge disappointment in the Villa end. Emery had no answers to Moyes.

For me, the turning point was old gunslinger McGinn going off injured. They lacked experience in the middle, and from that point, there was a chance of something.

Huge well done to Barry, Rohl, Garner, Patterson, and Armstrong. Big performances.

Neil Tyrrell 78 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:22:11

And Pickford, Ian.

That was an incredible save.

Neil Lawson 79 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:22:34

A terrific team performance. Moyes organising what Moyes does best.

We should all enjoy our evening and reflect upon the game. Now is not the time for criticism or adverse comment. Save it for another day.

Darren Hind 80 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:26:27

Credit where it's due: Our boy Davey deserves immense credit for this result.

I've given him what I believe was a lot of fair criticism this week so I feel it only right to doff the cap when he reverses the form.

I must confess, I don't get him. He doesn't seem to enjoy this selection malarkey, but there can't be too many managers who can dig out results like this when he is down to the bare iron.

I won a few bob on us today, but it wasn't the performance I expected. I thought our defence would be working overtime, but Garner, Rohl, Armstrong and yes, McNeil went to war with what I believe is currently the best midfield in the country... and they won. That bodes well for the future. Barry's goal was exquisite. I've been critical of him too.

So, despite being wrong about everything, we got a memorable victory and I ended the day richer than I started it.

As the great George Formby would say -- "Turned out nice again!"

Merle Urquart 81 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:32:28

Sean @54

He's being facetious.

Peter Mills 82 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:34:34

This morning, I was looking at our results. Since the start of December, we had taken 11 points from 8 games, which has now become 14 from 9.

Now, that's not spectacular but it's respectable. Stable. Just what was required from this season of transition.

David Moyes is doing what has been asked of him. I get as frustrated as anyone by his approach at times; I, we, need something more inspirational next season.

But, for now, that was a cracking result. Having a right-back, and O'Brien in the middle, made a huge difference. And I have been very critical of Barry, but he did very well today.

Neil Cremin 83 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:34:44

Kieran @49,

Sounds like you would have preferred if we lost so you could continue your biased rant against Moyes.

Your opinions for me have lost respect because it's less about football and more about your bitterness. True Evertonians celebrate victories.

Phil Roberts 84 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:36:35

Villa's last 12 games at home:W W W W W W W W W W W L

Barry 3 in 4 and 4 in 8. Röhl looking more at home. Patterson not making clangers -- both clean sheets when he started.

So Brighton away at the end of the month. Branthwaite back? Keane available. What is the back 4? Dewsbury-Hall and Gueye back. Who plays midfield? Ndiaye back.

Bench of Travers, O'Brien, Keane, Irogebunam, Röhl, McNeil, Dibling, Beto, Armstrong? Who is going to drop out for the 3rd goalie?

But given Newcastle -14, Forest -14 compared to last season -- are we ready for Europe.

Now then... what time is MotD2 on?

Dave Abrahams 85 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:37:48

I thought as I said at half time that we had given a good team effort and we kept it up.

I doubt anyone would begrudge Garner the MotM award but it was great to see everyone giving their all today and it was no surprise to me that Dwight McNeil had a very good game.

The more he plays, the best comes out of him, and likewise with Patterson, whose injuries have stopped him getting a good run in the side, so I hope he continues to be selected.

I think he is the only genuine right-back on the books and, with respect to Seamus, I think his best days are gone.

Very happy with the result and congratulations to all the players for their performance today, along with Moyes.

Kevin Molloy 86 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:38:49

Moyes isn't doing what's asked of him, Peter.

We've got the best away record in the Premier League. He is performing 'above expectations'.

Neil Cremin 87 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:41:35

Mick @60,

Totally agree with your summary.

Interesting dilemma which featured after the Forest game. Do we change a winning team?

Although, from my understanding, Garner picked up his 5th yellow card, so is out for the next game.

Merle Urquart 88 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:43:57

Keiran @49,

You are quite correct, of course... facts certainly piss off some posters.

John Collins 89 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:49:51

Neil @88.

I think there was a yellow card amnesty in December, mate.

Andy Walker 90 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:50:57

Kieran 49.

That's the most churlish comment I've ever read on here in 20+years. Grow up.

Well done, Moyes and the players. Fabulous result.

Darren Hind 91 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:51:26

I thought there was an amnesty on yellow cards after half the games had been played?

Brendan McLaughlin 92 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:52:38

Yes, Merle.

Villa 0 Everton 1...

Facts!

Kunal Desai 93 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:54:02

In adversity, we have these moments where we turn up and another super performance -- one of the best away performances for some time given the opposition and their home form.

The lads who have stepped in, Röhl, McNeil, Harrison and Patterson were all excellent.

Garner ran the show.

Let's get some consistency going and get a few more solid results under our belt and see where it takes us.

Paul Griffiths 94 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:54:04

Fantastic win. Moyes got it spot on. Garner was MotM. Special shout-out for Patterson. Armstrong should not be going back to Preston. Barry beginning to do better (keep it up).

And then we have Shaun McGough (38):

I hope all the Moyes haters and McNeil haters shut up now.

(54) john williams @4 and as for your other Moyes comment - absolute typical non sensical whining from another Everton hater

(70) kieran@49…what a brilliant blue you are

Congrats Shaun ,lad... you win today's Knobhead Championship Trophy for squeezing in 'Moyes haters' before anyone else, erm, no one so far.

This might confuse you, Shaun, but can I combine (54) and (70)? But let's begin with awarding you the Prize Knobhead Trophy for your pathetic 'nonsensical' 'another Everton hater'. (Who's the other one, soft lad?)

And, pay attention, Shaun, try to follow this: someone might quite fairly with deep irony say 'what a brilliant blue you are' for unforgivably calling a true blue an 'Everton hater'.

Neil Cremin 95 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:57:04

Glad to hear it as he would be a huge loss in his current form.

Does that mean the card count goes back to 1?

Merle Urquart 96 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:57:58

Brendan @93,

Please refer to post 47... then read Keiran's post 49 again.

Paul Griffiths 97 Posted 18/01/2026 at 19:59:10

We were told over a week ago by Mr. Roy that he would get in touch with the Tech boys to get the edit button sorted out.

John Collins 98 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:05:45

Ym deti button is rowkgni Apul

Mike Powell 99 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:12:16

Well done, Moyes -- set the team up well for this game.

You get some stick on here from certain people but you deserve praise for today's game.

So, if you don't like Moyes, give it a rest for today and enjoy the win. COYB

Brendan McLaughlin 100 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:13:10

Merle #97,

You can enjoy an Everton win under Moyes... Kieran obviously can't?

Other than that... what am I missing?

Kieran Kinsella 101 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:21:05

Andy, Christy, Neil etc...

Obviously I enjoyed the game and am happy we won.

I was just making the point various posters were criticizing those who've criticized Moyes based on this game. Just as the reverse happened after the Sunderland game.

My point is that, instead of this back and forth of “Moyes is a genius” v “sack Moyes” -- if you look at his record, this is the pattern it always follows based on periods in the season:

Cup defeats, hard-fought 1-0 wins, decent league finishes, no trophies.

So it's not surprising we won this -- just as it's not surprising we lost v Sunderland. But after every win or loss, we have two lobbies going at it as if it's an absolute that Moyes is good or terrible.

I'm not criticizing him or the team; I'm making a point about actuality versus the bi-polar viewpoints on here.

Peter Mills 102 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:22:46

Kevin #87,

I agree that our away results have been excellent. I think games like today, Nottm Forest and Man Utd, are what David Moyes thrives on.

If we maintain our present points accumulation, we will end up in the mid 50s. That would represent a very decent improvement on last season, the sort of achievable performance to which our owners would aspire.

If that goal could be achieved, the acid test would be “What next?” That would be down not just to a manager, but the ambition and preparedness to spend of those owners.

Merle Urquart 103 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:23:11

You're missing the thrust of his point... we have historically been fed on bitter and unnecessary cup defeats followed by totally unexpected league results.

We have our expectations managed by a completely unambitious manager who doesn't give a flying fuck about cup competitions as they are some sort of hinderance.

Our record at top 6 grounds is not just a disgrace, it's laughable.

These are the inconvenient facts. l personally am still seething with the Carabao Cup exit at Wolves and l'm not going to be apologetic for it.

Andy Meighan 104 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:23:13

Neil 61.

Thanks for that pal, glad he said something, how they could have thought Armstrong was interfering is beyond me.

I will say this though, Neil, if that's a Villa centre-back scoring, that's given. Paranoid? moi?

Jay Harris 105 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:24:00

Congratulations to the Phil for inventing a new phrase “Subjective VAR”. In other words, the VAR team can decide what they want.

On the subject of yellow cards, I believe it is up to 5 for the first half of the season and then up to 10 during the second half of the season, so Jimmy has 4 to go before his next ban.

Great win, Blues. The whole team put a shift in and deserved the plaudits.

Mike Gaynes 106 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:24:36

Top summary, Darren #81.

Regarding yellow card accumulation, there isn't an "amnesty" per se but the numbers change. Five bookings in the first 19 Premier League matches is a one-match suspension, and we're past that. 10 yellows in the first 32 games is a two-match suspension.

The only one in any kind of danger for us right now is Iroegbunam with 7 yellows. He leads the league in cards per minutes played.

Si Cooper 108 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:26:54

The midfield really gelled and were effective from the start. Dwight and Merlin seemed to have gotten a huge welcome boost from somewhere.

When McGinn went off, they seemed to lose any real conviction of bossing things centrally which greatly affected their apparent game plan.

Great that everything came together so well to give Danny and his fellow stalwarts a great win to celebrate, when the media all obviously thought this was a prime opportunity for Villa to step up their title challenge.

Ian Bennett 109 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:30:54

Does Aston Villa and Man Utd count as Top 6?

Brendan McLaughlin 110 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:34:02

Merle #104

Moyes, Everton... we went to a highly rated Villa side and came away with all 3 points.

There's probably a "but" in there, somewhere, if you dig deep enough.

Me... result!

Mike Gaynes 111 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:38:25

Amen, Brendan.

Result!

Si Cooper 112 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:40:59

Armstrong does jump but that does nothing to mess up the actions of the only defender who could have actually reached the cross.

He (Guessand I think) is dealt with deftly (and fairly) by O'Brien.

I think the assistant ref flags because he thinks Armstrong actually touches the ball. VAR shouldn't then be able to conjure up some other reason for disallowing it.

At pretty much every free-kick that is crossed in and converted, someone has started in an offside position and then either jumped to confuse the defence or formed a barricade and those goals are usually given as long as the offside player(s) don't actually touch the ball.

Jake O'Brien must be building up quite a tally for unjustly disallowed goals.

Ian Bennett 113 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:43:14

It will be interesting vs Leeds.

Patterson should get another game with Keane's suspension, plus the Afcon boys are back.

Probably forced into playing these players, but really nice seeing a proper right-back provide balance, and Armstrong partner up superbly with Garner.

Tony Abrahams 114 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:46:27

Probably our best result of the season, and in many respects it was also my favourite performance of the season.

I have been very critical of Moyes preserving with O'Brien, at right back because it's dreadful watching whoever plays on our right wing being so isolated.

Not just that but both today, when we pressed higher, and in our last victory against Forest, when we defended deep, we did what all good well-disciplined teams do, and stayed compact.

Villa started catching us on the wrong side of the ball a few times towards the end but, because we stayed compact, mainly due to having a player with a bit more speed in the middle of our defence, it didn't leave them a lot of space to operate when they found those little pockets in between our lines. The overall shape of our team was as good as it's been all season today.

Andy Meighan 115 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:50:08

I will say one final thing on the result today:

I think McGinn going off certainly galvanised us, he seems to make them tick in the same way that, to a lesser extent, Dewsbury-Hall does for us.

Would we have won, drawn or lost? We'll never know... but I really think it had a massive bearing on the game.

Nico Terblanche 116 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:52:24

Brilliant boys. Everton won. That's all that counts.

Now for the next win.

Mike Gaynes 117 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:58:12

Si #113, per the rules, it doesn't matter if you touch the ball or not. If you're in an offside position and you try to play the ball, you're offside. Armstrong was, and he did. The linesman got it technically correct and of course VAR had to endorse the call.

That said, had the linesman kept his flag down, there's no way VAR would have ruled out the goal, because as you say Armstrong wasn't truly "involved" and they would normally let that go.

Andy #116, good call. McGinn is the engine who makes them go and his loss made a difference.

Phil Roberts 118 Posted 18/01/2026 at 20:59:28

Peter #103.

Mid 50s points. It is a very tight league this year.Taking the points from last season's remaining 16 games, then the top 4 are away and gone. Bottom 2 are gone.

There are 9 teams in the middle and Chelsea only got 15 in those games and are not as good as last season (hence the manager sacking), so I reckon, if we get over 60 points, we will be in Europe.

Better get out the credit card, Danny!

David Currie 119 Posted 18/01/2026 at 21:01:08

Great performance and we have better balance with Patterson at right-back and O'Brien at centre-back.

I said after the Forest game that Moyes should not have changed the back 4. They deserve to keep their places for the next game.

Armstrong, Rohl, McNeil and Grealish were all good. Good finish by Barry, and Garner the outstanding player.

Tommy Carter 121 Posted 18/01/2026 at 21:06:00

A magnificent performance. But where was that effort and endeavour last week?

The players performed last week as though they had no belief that winning the FA Cup 3rd Round game is a step towards winning a trophy. Symptomatic of this manager who is a serial loser.

Let's not be fooled that what he delivers we should be grateful for. We know his ceiling. But his ceiling should never be ours. He's a better manager than most out there, but that's not saying much. There's a dearth of good managers. Which is why his stock has risen simply by remaining in management.

Moyes has always been a "two steps forward, one step backwards" manager, up to a certain point. He cannot operate at the top end of the game. And as much as today has been an enjoyable result, it's an anomaly.

Si Cooper 122 Posted 18/01/2026 at 21:33:42

Mike G, we don't know if the assistant ref got it technically correct or whether VAR has pounced on the opportunity is precisely my point.

VAR discussions have got to be broadcast.

Grant Rorrison 123 Posted 18/01/2026 at 21:41:20

Merle 103. Yeah, let's get Koeman back. Oh wait a minute, he got put out the League Cup by Norwich. Silva then? Oh, no he lost to Millwall in the FA Cup. Lampard then? Nope, he got stuffed by Palace. What about Dyche? No, he lost at home to fucking Luton.

Even Royle lost to Bradford and Port Vale in the FA Cup and he was a winner.

Don Alexander 124 Posted 18/01/2026 at 21:49:47

Like it or not, Keiran (#49) is entitled to cast his opinion and, broadly speaking, he's right when it comes to Moyes under the parasite's far-too-long tenure.

Very good performance today, classy finish by Barry, another save-of-the-month by Jordan, but Grealish is to me taking it way too easy to make us pay the reported £50mill to keep him.

And regarding the away vs home performances, I just wonder whether our new stadium is still something of a psychological conundrum to some of our players, which to me would be understandable?

Tony Abrahams 125 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:01:02

I understand the mental side of the game Don, but I’ve always been convinced that the better you are set-up, and the more everyone has confidence in the players around them and also the system that they are playing, then the better everyone does.

Rob Jones 126 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:12:03

Parasite, Don? Because he's being paid. Soooo... like everyone else, then?

Merle Urquart 127 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:13:39

Grant,

I'm not just singling out Moyes for this. The club has been doing it for over a generation. Even Ancelotti did it against a 3rd string Liverpool team.

Still, if you're happy with it, fuck the cups, eh?

Mark Murphy 128 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:22:09

I missed this game as it was my “selfish it's all about me first son's 28th birthday” (Arghhh fuck... where has that gone?) and we “had” to have a celebratory meal.

Had it on my moby on the sly and luckily caught the goal when I “went the loo” -- much to my wife's annoyance. So I'm looking forward to MotD2. I love my boy to death but, fuck, I wish I'd been there today.I like Moyes til the next game. UTFT! I fucking love this club!

Kevin Molloy 129 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:22:29

Merle,

We've been preoccupied with surviving in the Premier League for the last decade...

But your gripe is that we weren't winning any cups, is that right?

Mark Murphy 130 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:27:56

Shit, sorry guys. Late to the thread as I explained in my last post.

Thought this was about Everton winning at Villa.My apologies.

Merle Urquart 131 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:33:06

That's right... apparently no one else gives a fuck, so l look forward to those gobshites with their balloons and banners celebrating 1995 when they come to the HDS... we may as well join in.

Welcome to the world of zero ambition and the low bar.

Imagine a boot stamping on a human face -- forever!!!

Mark Murphy 132 Posted 18/01/2026 at 22:51:03

Just watching MotD2.

Apparently that was Villa on 11 consecutive home wins. And we won. But they were “off”... Fuck off!

We fucking did you, you “win the singing” soft twats.UTFT

Jonathan Oppenheimer 133 Posted 18/01/2026 at 23:20:10

Helluva performance by just about everyone.

I'm still not sold on Barry, but credit where it's due. Briilliant finish, good knock downs and hold up play and one-twos.

Those moaning about the referee and VAR should stop tonight and thank their lucky stars. The offside call was absolutely correct and Garner, as excellent as he was, should have been sent off for the push on Rogers.

Pickford in a class of his own, just outstanding. How anyone can ever criticize him is beyond me. He's not perfect, especially coming out on crosses, but he's top 5 in the world and we're lucky to have him.

Special shout to Rohl and Armstrong, two young players who proved they belong today and will only improve with age. Give Patterson his due today, too. He got the job done.

Up the fucking Toffees.

Phil Roberts 134 Posted 18/01/2026 at 23:29:49

Stupid commentary once again on MOTD.

Röhl shot and the post saves Villa. The post never moved. If it had not been there, the ball would have gone wide.

The post (or bar) saving a goal is the most stupid of all the stupid phrases we get from people commentating or writing on the game.

Nick Page 135 Posted 18/01/2026 at 23:30:20

The most Everton that, Everton that ever. Absolutely shite at home but go to Villa where we've done fuck all, ever, and these were on a record streak. Insane.

Now ... buy a fuclking striker!

Ray Jacques 136 Posted 18/01/2026 at 23:34:16

Perhaps Patterson can save us some cash and be our regular right-back?

Two natural full-backs gives balance, and O'Brien is awesome at centre-back.

Sean Kearns 137 Posted 18/01/2026 at 23:44:43

I would say that up and down the country, through all 5 leagues in football, the shitter team wins about 30% of the time. The worst team always has around a 30% chance of winning a game of football from what I've seen throughout my life. No other sport works this way as far as I'm aware…

And for that reason, I will never count my team, or any other team, out of a contest before it's even begun. Especially never the mighty fucking blues!!! Anyone who predicts us to lose a game needs more optimism.

Jason Hewly 138 Posted 18/01/2026 at 23:46:48

McGinn going off definitely upset them. He's a great player who reads the game well and puts himself about in service to the team.

The other thing that I think disrupted Villa was Moyes's tactics. There were a few times when Villa seemed genuinely confused that we didn't go for a high press. Martinez was even trying to lure players towards him for it. It looked like their game plan was in ruins.

There were a lot of good performances throughout the team, loads of effort from everyone, but Pickford's quality and Garner's all-action display deserve special mentions. They're both real gems.

Phil Roberts 139 Posted 18/01/2026 at 23:56:16

BBC just shown that Röhl, Armstrong and McNeil covered more ground than Garner... ???

Kevin Molloy 140 Posted 19/01/2026 at 00:04:31

Tommy,

He's got the best away record in the league.

We've just beaten the potential champions on their own turf. It's not an anomaly.

Don Alexander 141 Posted 19/01/2026 at 00:43:34

Rob (#126), for the avoidance of doubt, the parasite is dead.

I wasn't referring to anyone alive.

Chris Davies 142 Posted 19/01/2026 at 01:04:59

Phil @139, That blew my mind too!

When you think about it, it explains why Jimmy G looks so good. There are three or four in front of him working their bollocks off.

And, in turn, he's filling the gaps they leave? Either way, another absolutely boss performance from James Garner.

Nicholas Ryan 143 Posted 19/01/2026 at 01:57:00

On the 'Moyes Good - Moyes Bad' argument:

I think the most accurate and sensible comment comes from Peter Mills at 82, who says: 'David Moyes is doing what has been asked of him'.

Steve Brown 144 Posted 19/01/2026 at 04:21:44

Vintage Moyes away performance -- he boxed the midfield so they could not pass through us. He is very strong at setting up a compact structure away from home, and we deserved to beat a Villa team who had won their last 11 home games.

Rohl very composed, Patterson worked tirelessly and McNeil improved set-pieces and put in a huge shift. If you give squad players game time, they will be ready when selected.

4 points off a Champions League spot with up to 8 players absent for a month. Imagine if the ownership had actually backed the manager when it became clear mid-December that we would be seriously short?

TFG are probably holding back the announcement of Garner's contract extension as late positive news after they fail to sign new players. They'll time it with the return of Ndiaye, Gueye, Branthwaite and Alcaraz to spin it as “like signing 5 new players.”

Get it sorted and get it announced, as he has been brilliant this season.

Tony Abrahams 145 Posted 19/01/2026 at 07:38:43

Ian @109, I think there should be a sensible thread on this very subject mate.

Before the Man Utd game, I remember Moyes having a go at the way United have been very trigger happy with regards their manatgers since Ferguson departed, so I detected a little bit more defiance and attitude from our manager, who was about to take his team to Old Trafford.

Although Villa are a big club, I doubt Moyes will have ever looked at them in the same way he looks at Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Man United, and now Man City, but he had a good record against City, when they were just beginning to build themselves up, and I can remember him having what seemed to be a personal vendetta against Mancini.

Attitude and defiance is what the old Everton Football Club was built on, until we got taken over by an actor, along with a few of the other important qualities that are needed, if you want to win.

Tony Abrahams 146 Posted 19/01/2026 at 07:46:11

Phil@139, that is a really interesting stat that mate. It doesn’t really matter, it was clear they all worked their plums off, but it does show another thing that doesn’t deceive the eyes, and that is that Jimmy Garner, is bringing so much intelligence and awareness into his game.

I have always thought that a good boxer knows how to shorten the ring, and the first thing a good midfield player has got to do, is to learn the short cuts, otherwise he will be dead on his feet after 70 minutes.

Phil Roberts 147 Posted 19/01/2026 at 08:51:11

Saw a great comment the other day

80% of the earth is covered by water, the other 20% is covered by Jimmy Garner.

Darren Hind 148 Posted 19/01/2026 at 08:51:57

Merle

Do the words time and place mean anything to you ?.

This is a post match thread. They happen after every game. They give people a chance to comment on this particular match...You do get that ?...Dont you ?.

There are numerous threads on many websites where people go to express their dissatisfaction with the bigger picture

Your claim that no body but you cares that we havent won a trophy since 1995 is acutely embarrassing.

What an observant super fan you are

Anthony Dove 149 Posted 19/01/2026 at 09:06:13

I don’t think McGinn going off made any difference. Villa were off the pace before then.

I am not in the Moyes camp but that was a performance to be proud of. It was far superior

to the usual backs to the wall and hit them on the break away tactic.

John Collins 150 Posted 19/01/2026 at 09:06:49

Front foot, aggressive pressing.

More of the same please.

Rob Hooton 151 Posted 19/01/2026 at 09:49:54

Aston Villa had won 15 and drawn 1 of their past 16 games. In the last 12 games against Everton, they had won 9 and drawn 3. We are missing a few of our best players.

And yet we won and some people are moaning about Moyes, I kid you not! Some people live in a different reality to me - we are 4 points off 4th place and practically safe with 16 games to go and a decent shout at European football next season. With a small squad with gaping holes in it.

Very disappointed to be out of the cups, this season was always about improving and we are doing that. I, for one, am quite a happy blue, all things considered.

James Fletcher 152 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:03:36

Yeah got to agree here, it's madness to be complaining. The aim for this season really was to not be drawn into a relegation fight which we are well clear of. Anything else is a massive bonus, the thought of European footy as a possibility is brilliant. Love what Moyes is doing and we're 2/3 signings away from having some good depth all over the park too.

Jimmy Carr 153 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:10:06

Crikey!

COYB, UTFT etc., etc.

Just like that Merlin Rohl suddenly looks a bit decent.

A very Moyesian, backs to the wall away performance.

Well done Darren for somehow slipping in a George Formby reference.

We’re still in it!

Sort that home form out Davey!

Dave Abrahams 154 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:18:53

Regarding the praise given to Patterson for his performance yesterday I thought some of it was back handed compliments— I thought that he was every bit as good at right back as O’Brien was at centre back except to me Nathan is a much better footballer than O’Brien and deserved more fulsome praise than he got and I hope he made one poster blush after his recent remark about how poor he is and how O’ Brien could play better on one leg than Patterson, not in my book he couldn’t.

John Collins 155 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:22:02

Dave,

A round peg in a round hole mate

James Fletcher 156 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:22:15

Yes Dave, have to agree that Patto had a good game and if he can continue to stay injury free perhaps he can further grow into the role. Seems crazy that after he's been here for 4 years I've still not really seen that much of him. He definitely helped us to get forward on the right wing as I was concerned with Dwight that the whole flank would be a bit unused.

Alan McGuffog 157 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:29:03

A fantastic win against the odds and a great tactical performance. OK, wet blanket time. How often have we been in a position like this and then have a very winnable game on the horizon.

Looking forward to bursting Leeds ( very small ) bubble next week. Its not as if they've got any players with something to prove.

Rob Hooton 158 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:32:30

It would be nice to see Patterson get a run in the team and see if there is a PL player in there, agree that we have seen so little of him in the 4 years he has been here and he’ll still be a way from fully fit and sharp. I imagine he will have one eye on the World Cup this year too!

I think Garner covered less ground this game because he was instructed to be the player in front of the back 4 and to use his intelligence, he did it very well.

Brian Harrison 159 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:36:18

The players and David Moyes deserve a lot of credit for that win, every player ran themselves into the ground, yes I know thats a minimum pre requisite but it doesnt always happen that the whole team does it. See MOTD put up a stat that since Moyes returned only Arsenal have won as many away games as Everton, some stat considering the squad he took over had been fighting relegation.

I have always been a big fan of Moyes, and may have been in the minority on T/W but I said when he returned he would improve players and would leave this club in a much stronger position than it was when he arrived. As for player improvement James Garner has looked a completely different player under Moyes, yes most of the credit goes to the player but I think Moyes has changed the way Garner plays. Jake O,Brien couldn't get a look in under Dyce yet Moyes used him effectively at full back and I think will play him more in his natural position.

Getting back to the game I doubt many had us down for an away win me included, but they deserved the win. Moyes cleverly didnt allow them to play through the middle as they like to, and we took full advantage of the chances we had. I thought Harrison Armstrong looks the real deal and must not go back to Preston on loan, also I have been a critic of Merlin Rohl but I thought he was excellent yesterday.

Friedkin I would suggest you get in your private jet and fly over and let James Garner know how important he is by you coming and offering him a contract he cant refuse, otherwise he will have plenty of clubs wanting his services in the summer and he may feel he cant turn the chance down.

Finally well done Gana Gueye and Illman Ndaiye in winning the Afcon, it will be great to have you both back.

Martin Berry 160 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:43:42

Credit to the Manager who is sometimes criticized for supposedly being out of touch with modern tactics.

Got it spot on today, also backed up by Merlin Rohl's comments post match.

David Moyes has had such limited options due to injury/squad size, that its been used as means to question his tactical nouse.

Yes I do think changing the team after the Forrest win was a mistake but he has learned from it.

We have potentially a very exciting side, with a few additions we can certainly achieve European football next season.

John Collins 161 Posted 19/01/2026 at 10:49:22

Martin 160.

Moyes is out of touch with modern day offensive tactics.

He's decent on modern day defensive tactics imo.

All credit to him yesterday,a great win.

Conor McCourt 162 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:06:14

Let's not pretend this was a giant killing yesterday. I backed us to win yesterday when I knew both Camara and Onana were out of their midfield. Then when McGinn went off I was getting ready to collect.

Villa are in the position they are thanks to their manager who has a knack of changing games to eek out tight results in his favour. The amount of games Rogers has won for them is astounding.

I don't get the constant hammering of our squad.You see how poor they are without their starting midfield and the likes of Sancho and Malen to help change the game for them. Guessand is useless yet many wanted us to sign him.

If you want to compare squads.

You only have to look at the goalkeepers today to see who is the better one.That clown world class my arse.

They have decent full backs, not spectacular. Indeed I think Garner is better than cash there. Their centre halves are bog standard.I would only want Maatsen out of their entire defence.

Central midfield Tielemans is class but without legs around him he gets exposed as it did yesterday. We have about 6 central midfielders better than Bogarde, maybe 7. This is the best collection of midfielders since Martinez, and in terms of depth it's better. Under Ancelotti for example we had the dreadful Allan with a bog standard Doucoure and an over the hill Sigurddson.

Of course they had the top class Rogers but we won chiefly because he left his shooting boots in the locker. Buendia and McGinn normally play either side but I would take Ndiaye and Grealish over them every day of the week.

Up front Watkins is obviously better than Barry but despite our boy spending the first 3 months looking like lost in the headlights with the speed and intensity of the league, getting bullied left right and centre. He has still only 3 less goals than Watkins who normally gets a handful of chances every game and whose team is set up to play to his strengths unlike for Barry. The young Frenchman will probably now end being our top scorer since Richy and may even get to double figures if he carries on like he did in La liga.

What this result highlights is that we should be doing better in the league. Why haven't we used Patterson more? If you look at how Tarkowski performs next to OBrien, why the fuck is Keane still starting? Why was Armstrong sent to Preston when he was already our best midfielder in preseason? McNeill ability to shoot, assist and set piece expertise why was he exiled and only used when lacking match fitness when we don't have any player who can do all 3?

Those saying thank heavens for not being in a relegation battle need to give your heads a wobble.

Kevin Molloy 163 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:12:38

heh heh.

Sean Kearns 164 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:13:12

Also 5th place will likely be Chanpions League again this season. So we are only 3 points off CL.

Ray Jacques 165 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:15:48

I was ambivalent when Moyes was appointed roughly this time last year.

When he took over, I believe we had roughly one point per game and were a few points above relegation.

On this day last year we beat Tottenham 3-2 and then won away at Brighton the following week. This season has carried on in a similar vein to the second half of last season and the threat of relegation has been banished.

Criticising the manager I feel is not a fair reflection on his record over the past 12 months. We are doing well and finally looking up. Leave Moyes alone. Lets see where we finish this season, give him next season. If we stagnate in mid table, then look to bring in a younger, more dynamic and risk taking manager to make the next step, if finances allow. However, at present it cannot be denied that good progress is being made.

How anyone can

Sean Kearns 166 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:26:56

Someone called Martinez the best goalie in the world 🤣 that World Cup win was 4 YEARS ago by the way!. He’s not even the best goalie in the league because our Jordan is, and he has been for the last few seasons.

Brian Harrison 167 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:34:43

Conor 162

As to why McNeil has been exiled most on here on his appearances this season wouldn't have picked him and whose position would you play him in, Ndaiye, Grealish or KDH. As for Patterson none of our last 3 managers fancied him, and to be fair he has been injured a lot since Moyes came back. I watched 3 ex keepers last week on Sky, Seaman being one and they had Martinez in their top 3 keepers, rightly or wrongly Pickford wasn't in the top 4.

You say with them missing Onana and Camara you thought that gave us an advantage, we played 2 very young midfield players alongside Garner. I would suggest you were in a minority thinking we would win, given a win would take them to 2nd within 4 points of Arsenal.

I did post the other day that when we get our full squad fit we are a match for anybody and yes we have let a couple of games slip.

Danny O\'Neill 168 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:47:36

Ray@ 164, having attended both those matches, I think we were all still a bit raw. Jst before Tottenham clawed it back to 3-2 I had turned to the sopporter next to me & said we needed a 4th.

As for Brighton away, a Moyes mastrrclass defensive keep it tight & nick one., complete with Ndiaye's seagull taught after scoring!!

Ian Wilkins 169 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:50:35

Some decisions to make when all players return.

O’Brien proving he should stay in the middle. More minutes for Patterson or incoming RB this window?

Ndiaye I think goes straight back in, as does KDH behind the striker, but who has the other centre mid alongside Garner? I don’t think Gueye is necessarily a shoe in.

Barry is clearly first choice striker now, be good to have a fresh second option and for Beto to try pastures new.

Be nice to see a full bench too, with options to change things.

Ashley Krotosky 170 Posted 19/01/2026 at 11:56:39

A few thoughts:

- will that win help attract new players?

- will that win help persuade Jimmy G that it's worth hanging with us (subject to a decent contract being offered), and ensuring his head doesn't get turned?

- Recently someone posed (sorry I forgot who) that our home form was compromised by the 5m extra long pitch at the HDS. This badly exposed the (pace-lacking) combo of Keano and Tarks in central defence.

I think there could be something in this.

Hopefully DM will soon have a full complement of 4 CBs to pick from. He will then have decisions to make, and even more hopefully he will make the right decision of who to start with. Hard to argue against yesterday's pairing, even though JB will be desperate to get a run of games to help him make a late bid for the world cup. Unlike midfielders and forwards, CBs more rarely get subbed tactically, so it can be harder to keep those on the bench happy, especially when there are no cup games to offer rotation opportunities.

Clive Rogers 171 Posted 19/01/2026 at 12:05:11

Tony Abrahams 172 Posted 19/01/2026 at 12:09:38

Brian H, you like Moyes, and he his doing a good job, but do you think he can integrate enough players into his squad?

I used to think it was because his hands were always tied, but now I am not sure and a part of me thinks that he has always preferred to manage a smaller squad,

It’s a lot easier keeping 13/14/15 even 16 good players happy, than it is keeping 18/20 happy, and a part of me thinks this suits Moyes, because it’s not easy keeping everyone happy.

I was delighted with the performance as much as the result yesterday, and I think it’s a long time since I’ve been that happy watching us play because of our shape, balance, togetherness and movement.

Players only love you when they’re playing - and I think it’s fair to say that every single Everton player, put in a performance worthy of the shirt, and all looked like they were enjoying their work.

If Moyes can integrate more players into his squad, and keep them happy, ready and focused, then I don’t see why he wouldn’t be the man to take us forward. But can he?

Conor McCourt 173 Posted 19/01/2026 at 12:25:38

Brian yes I note you are full of praise for the improvement in players under Moyes... You started and stopped with Garner. Yet a number including McNeill, Gueye, Tarks have regressed. Jordan is also having his worst season but it's still better than Martinez.

You may base your opinion of goalkeepers based on media bollocks all due to him being a world cup winner but the facts tell you it ain't even close. Statistically Jordon has been the best goalkeeper in the league for years with only Raya and Allison in the same ball park. He rates highly on every metric goal prevention, shot stopping and low on errors costing goals. The amount of points he has won us over the years is incomparable. Obviously Donna runs is now the best, a truly world class goalkeeper.

I ain't suggesting McNeill or Patterson has to start but both are valuable squad players who have clinically being underused. Last season for example his goal contributions in terms of minutes played blows Dewsbury Halls out of the water when playing in the same position. He had 7 before his injury and was our top goalscorer the season before. Dewsbury Hall despite my reservations has produced his best form when playing deeper so there is no reason why he hasn't played more in a team which has only scored 24 goals all season, considering he had a third of that in goal contributions by the end of October last year. Today's game is a squad game and one of Emery's strength is using horses for courses ie Lindelof a poor player starts when he goes backs to the wall.

Brian I wasn't expecting us to win but I think Camara is the second best holding midfielder in the league behind Caicedo. Onana bring power, athleticism and provides goal threat and these two hide Tielemans flaws and augment his brilliance on the ball meaning they dominate most of the midfields they play against. McGinn also is brilliant in supporting that midfield. I just thought the odds were value given their powerhouse has been dismantled.

I don't think Garner, Rohl and Armstrong is a huge downgrade on Gana now, Garner and Dewsbury Hall. Armstrong is an elite talent who will undoubtedly be better than all of our other midfielders in time.

For me I thought that if we kept Rogers quiet we could win and the game would suit us with them coming on to us (don't forget their xg is of a bottom half team). Hence I thought first goal would be crucial. Rogers bails them out on numerous occasions thankfully he didn't yesterday but he had numerous sitters he normally buries.

As for your belief in our first team, that is what's wrong with how he have underused this squad. At right back there are games which we may have to use OBrien, others when Patterson should be the choice and in second halves when we need a goal Garner should have been utilised for his delivery. We have won the majority of games when OBrien wasn't played as a right back.

We all know we need a top class one in the summer but we still have decent options there if you consider that Tete Smith Kayode and Veltman are some of the right backs in teams in and around us and that's apparently our weakest position in the team yet none are a huge upgrade on Patterson who would be a decent back up next season.

Terry Downes 174 Posted 19/01/2026 at 12:44:02

With the spuds seemingly all over the place could we not put a cheeky bid in for Richy ?

Personally I think he’d be brilliant playing in front of Jack Dewsbury Hall and Ndiaye ? Worth a try ?

Ian Wilkins 175 Posted 19/01/2026 at 12:45:48

Richarlison out for 2 months injured I think.

Bill Gall 176 Posted 19/01/2026 at 13:14:40

isn't Richarlison out with a hamstring injury, if so hard to tell when he will be ready to play again,

Sean Kearns 177 Posted 19/01/2026 at 14:06:15

Jake O’Brien whilst playing center-back for us since May:

Beat Southampton 2-0

Played 25 mins at CB against palace - we score 2 in that time and never concedes. Won 2-1

Beat Bournmouth 1-0

Beat Forest 2-0

Beat Villa 1-0

Also played there against Newcastle on the final day of last season. Won 1-0

18 points. 0 goals conceded. #Beast

Ray Jacques 178 Posted 19/01/2026 at 14:18:13

Tony at 172.

Like the Fleetwood Mac reference there

Stu Gre 179 Posted 19/01/2026 at 14:29:01

Sean #177 agree with this but it has also can argue its whilst he hasn't been playing right back! Interesting to see what happens when Keane is available again.

Great result yesterday, long may it continue.

Brian Harrison 180 Posted 19/01/2026 at 14:31:45

Tony 172

A good question can Moyes manage a 25 man squad or is he better managing 15/16 players. I don't know the answer to that, but I think most successful teams have a nucleus of 7 players that play most games, and you know better than any of us a settled side winning is every managers dream. Obviously during the season injuries and suspensions play there part. But as you know no player wants to sit on the bench unused, so its very difficult keeping 25 players happy when most weeks they wont get a game. I know Moyes says he was torn as to whether Harrison Armstrong should go on loan, and you can understand his predicament, if Garner, Gana and KDH were fit plus Alcaraz from the bench how much game time would Armstrong have got, very little in that stage of his development.

I also think Moyes has sent out the promising youngsters on loan which makes sense.

I said a few days back I was really optimistic about this team when the Afcon is finished and we have KDH and Branthwaite available. Plus the exciting talent that Armstrong is and Rohl really surprised my yesterday by far his best game in a Blue shirt although to be fair he hasn't played many

Merle Urquart 181 Posted 19/01/2026 at 14:34:34

Darren 148

I refer you to a previous post #47 which as a 'superfan' l expressed my delight at the away win...the subject that followed was my agreement with another poster who correctly pointed out that this was almost formulaic from Moyes after bitter disappointments...and if you'd bother your arse to read it in the context of the comments off the thread you'd realise l'm not for one second suggesting l'm the only who cares about whether we win a trophy or not...but l do care about and it would appear to me that a January end to the season is perfecly acceptable to you.

Tony Abrahams 182 Posted 19/01/2026 at 14:53:58

I don’t think any manager could keep 25 players happy Brian, unless he had a few lazy bastards in his squad, but I’m just not sure that keeping players happy, would be one of David Moyes’s, biggest strengths?

Ian B, posted the players unavailable alongside the subs bench, from the last time we played in a cup final under Moyes, and whereas everyone thought he was doing a great job at Everton, with no money, I have since looked at things differently and believe he prefers to work with a smaller squad, for the reasons we both state.

It’s not easy keeping everyone happy, but surely the best way to make the fans happy, would be by integrating more players into the squad to become more and more competitive?

Look at the games this weekend. First place drew at seventeenth placed. Second place lost at sixth place, although it was also a derby match. Third place lost at home to eleventh place. Fourth place drew at home to nineteenth. Sixth place drew at bottom place, and Chelsea beat the team next to them in the table Brentford 2-0.

The EPL, is very competitive, but for the first time in years I would actually fancy Everton, against anyone, if we had everyone firing on all cylinders and we also had enough good players on the bench, that our manager, would have no problem introducing onto the field at any given time.

Jimmy Carr 183 Posted 19/01/2026 at 15:16:17

Conor, individual statistics have their place but footie is a team game. The only real stats that matter are points accrued by the team. Are you saying Gueye, McNeill and Tarkowski have regressed based on their individual statistics? 'Cos i'm baffled by that one. I think Tarkowski is slightly more prone to mistakes, but that's down to him, not the coaching. I think he might still rank as our best defender on Opta anyway. The other two I see no significant difference either way in their performances. McNeill is obviously not being played in his favoured position and I think is unfairly maligned at times, but he's always been slow and he's always been one footed. No change there then. By the way, Keane has also improved significantly this season, along with Garner.

What Moyes has done is improved our points tally, and to be honest, that's all I care about really. If he can find a way to better our home form whilst maintaining the away performances we're in Europe this year. Big 'if' though. Yeah, I would like us to be eighth rather than tenth, but if you're suggesting that Moyes is somehow holding us back from doing better I think you are mistaken, or to put it another way, you are looking at the season with your glass half-empty.

Raymond Fox 184 Posted 19/01/2026 at 15:17:34

To be a top 6 team you have to be able to defend and attack very well.

We can do the defending great, theres only 4 teams conceeded less than us. It's the attacking bit that we are a little deficient on. Thats where the very best players make the difference.

It's unfair after a performance like that, but we need another say three top forward players to get us further up the table and consistantly challenge the top.

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