Jordan Pickford – 8
Pickford didn’t put a foot wrong today, and was always reliable when called upon. Unbelievably, Chelsea only had four shots on target, which is why he doesn’t get a nine, but England’s number one was always there for us as usual. He didn’t have to make any spectacular saves, but did very well with what he had to face.
Seamus Coleman – 7
Coleman was solid defensively, and looked to help out with the attacks whenever possible, too. Looking much better from the Irishman in these last couple of weeks.
Yerry Mina – 7
A very solid debut from the Colombian. Aerially dominant, and looks a stylish modern centre-back. Always strong in the challenge and confident in possession as well. Was unfortunate to be booked for a fantastic challenge on Hazard just outside the box in the first half. It will be a difficult decision next time out for Marco Silva, in terms of his centre-backs.
Michael Keane – 7
Also aerially dominant, and solid in the challenge too. Did his part in keeping Everton’s great shape, although not always the best in possession.
Lucas Digne – 9
Man of the match for me, and probably his best game yet of his solid start at Everton. Made some crucial blocks and challenges, and his deliveries were just as great as we have come to expect.
Idrissa Gueye – 8
Was crucial in the compact, pressing game which Everton played to restrict Chelsea. Harried everyone around him into pressure, and was typically tenacious in a snappy match.
Andre Gomes – 7
The Portuguese did well in possession, and also played his part in the pressing. Perhaps his biggest test yet in blue, and he didn’t disappoint.
Gylfi Sigurdsson – 7
Was another crucial part of putting Chelsea under pressure. Looked to create also, even after a reckless kicking from Jorginho. He felt the challenges eventually, and was brought off for the last fifteen minutes to allow Phil Jagielka to come and see out the game.
Theo Walcott – 6
Wasn’t able to take his big chance, after being played in by Sigurdsson and taking an awful first touch. Tricky game for the winger, but he still isn’t hitting the heights that the other players are managing.
Bernard – 6
Again, wasn’t able to take his big chance. Had a wonderful opportunity at the back post, but couldn’t get it out of his feet. Made way for Ademola Lookman after an hour during not his best game in blue.
Richarlison – 7
Fantastic to see him able to start the game after Silva’s cautious comments in the pre-match press conference. Didn’t have many chances in front of goal, but worked hard throughout and took a few knocks before coming off with a groin complaint late on.
SUBS:
Ademola Lookman (Walcott, 64) – 7
Surely only a matter of time before this young man gets a chance from the start. Looked positive after coming on, and showed some lovely footwork to elude several Chelsea defenders but couldn’t finish off the chance.
Phil Jagielka (Sigurdsson, 75) – 7
Shored up the Everton defence amidst some relentless Chelsea pressure. Made a very nice overhead clearance to show that age is just a number.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Richarlison, 88) – N/A
Always a threat if he finds some space in behind the opposition defence, which he tried to on a couple of occasions.
About The Author
