Amid Liverpool’s disastrous run, Everton have stepped up as the standout Merseyside outfit fighting for a ‘top four’ finish. They travelled to Stamford Bridge and locked horns with Chelsea in a crucial battle for the Champions League berth. Carlo Ancelotti led his side to a three-game winning streak prior to their trip to London but ended up losing 2-0 this evening.
Below are the Everton players rated in their disappointing defeat against Chelsea.
Jordan Pickford: 6
Was unlucky as Kai Havertz’ strike took a deflection of Godfrey before ending up into the back of the net. Made a crucial stop to deny Marcos Alonso late in the first half to avoid further misery. However, he was not composed enough after the break and eventually conceded a spot-kick which was converted by Jorginho minutes over the hour mark. Denied humiliation in the closing minutes with some impressive saves in quick succession.
Mason Holgate: 5.5
An evening to forget for the Englishman who struggled against Alonso and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Received an early booking which made it trickier for him against the dominant Blues. Had an improved second-half following Iwobi’s exit and Davies’ arrival.
Michael Keane: 6.5
Did well defensively. His no-nonsense clearances and timely interceptions restricted Timo Werner from causing much trouble in the attacking third. Tried to play it long from the back to provide directness in Everton’s game.
Ben Godfrey: 6
Conceded an unfortunate own goal but was decent otherwise in the heart of the backline. Was in the right place at the right time with tackles and interceptions whenever required.
Lucas Digne: 5.5
Whipped in a few crosses but struggled against Reece James and often left the space wide open behind him. Should have taken a more balanced approach in such a high-profile contest.
Allan: 7
Was spot on with his tackles to prevent an array of Chelsea moves deep down the midfield. Was combative as he engaged in duels and offered his physicality in the centre of the pitch.
Andre Gomes: 5.5
Had an attempt straight into the hands of Edouard Mendy moments before the half-time whistle. Was not at his best as he kept on losing duels and getting dispossessed dangerously. Was replaced by Bernard late in the match.
Alex Iwobi: 5
Could not provide enough cover to Holgate who was left exposed time and again. Most of his dribbling attempts were unsuccessful and was taken off early into the second half to make way for Tom Davies.
Gylfi Sigurdsson: 5.5
Should have worked harder to carry the ball forward and link up with Richarlison and Calvert-Lewin high up the pitch. Tried to play some through balls which, however, did not work out before leaving the pitch with 20 minutes remaining. Joshua King was introduced in a desperate attempt to turn things around.
Richarlison: 5
The Brazilian was well contained by the Blues backline. His first touch let him down on one occasion and his trademark runs did not harm the hosts who opted for a deep defensive strategy.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin: 6
Was causing problems in Chelsea defence with his physical and aerial supremacy. Mostly remained isolated though as the Toffees failed to create enough opportunities for their attackers.
Everton Substitutes Vs Chelsea
Tom Davies: 6
Brought some stability in the middle of the park with his high work ethics and mobility.
Josh King: 5
Failed to make any notable contribution since replacing Sigurdsson.
Bernard: 5
Nothing significant from the winger either since coming on in place of Gomes.
