Full Time: Everton 4-2 Leicester City
After the stalemate against Manchester United, Ronald Koeman’s Everton managed to take all three points from Leicester City’s trip to the Merseyside this weekend. Tom Davies gave the hosts a sizzling start, netting just 30 seconds into the game but Islam Slimani replied almost immediately, taking the scoreline back to 1-1 in under 5 minutes into the game.
Marc Albrighton gave Leicester City the lead just 5 minutes later but Romelu Lukaku pulled one back before the half hour mark to push Everton level. Phil Jagielka popped up with a goal late in the half to give Everton the lead while Lukaku scored his 23rd league goal of the season to seal all three points from a thrilling tie. Here’s how the Everton players faired against the defending champions.
Everton Player Ratings:
Joel Robles (5)
Was at fault for Albrighton’s free-kick but was generally solid and made a couple of decent saves to keep his side in the hunt.
Mason Holgate (6)
The youngster put in a decent performance and though he could have done better to prevent Slimani’s goal, he did well against the likes of Demarai Gray.
Phil Jagielka (8)
The senior defender for Everton was brilliant all game. Jagielka not only managed to marshal his back line but also came up with an important goal that gave Everton the lead.
Matthew Pennington (6)
Started the game in a nervy fashion, giving away the free-kick that led to the Leicester’s second goal but grew into the game slowly to help his side to a victory.
Leighton Baines (6)
Stuck to his task well as he allowed the likes of Slimani and Riyad Mahrez no space or time to do their bit of magic.
Idrissa Gueye (7)
Was off color for most of the game as he misplaced a number of passes. But his energy helped Everton hang on and complete their comeback.
Morgan Schneiderlin (8)
The most influential player in the midfield, Schneiderlin kept everything simple as he opened up the Leicester defence on more than one occasion.
Tom Davies (8)
Scored a goal, created one for Barkley, which Ross missed. He was a constant menace in front of goal all game long.
Ross Barkley (8)
Probably his best performance in recent times. Barkley was all over the Leicester City defence as he put in the cross for Lukaku’s opener. He also created a number of chances on the night.
Kevin Mirallas (7)
Though he was not at his best with his final ball, Mirallas was a superb option for Everton in the attack as he played some clever passes that broke Leicester City’s defence.
Romelu Lukaku (8)
Though he was selfish at times, the Belgian put in a sublime performance to pick up a brace and help Everton to a comfortable victory.
Subs:
Gareth Barry (6)
Replaced Schneiderlin with half an hour to play. Helped Everton see out the game.