It’s a shame that the Hall of Fame has finally closed down after 10 great years, because in my opinion there would have to be at least two new additions, Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta. Both of whom combined brilliantly last night to seal that valuable point and both of whom have become so vital to Everton’s Fortunes of late.

The Australian became the first player since Dixie Dean to score in three consecutive Anfield derbies when he popped up in front of goal to glance home the Spaniard’s trademark free kick with just three minutes of regular time left on the clock, also denying Liverpool a quick return to the top of the Premier League.

To the Everton fans (dancing in jubilation as Cahill snatched the equaliser) it felt like a win, who else can claim that without three recognised strikers and their most expensive player, that they could get a point- and give Liverpool a run for their money- without any of that?

After being punished for letting Steven Gerrard score from 25 yards amidst penalty claims all that was needed was for Mikel and Tim to respond in style with a sweetly struck free-kick and a classic Australian leap and finish.

The decision to include Anichebe was shrewd, what the big man lacks in pace he makes up for in his physical presence and who was a constant thorn in Sammi Hypia’s side. His sweetly struck shot got the game going as Reina made a superb stop to the bottom right hand corner, this set the tone for the game- Everton weren’t leaving without a fight.

The toffees matched their Mersyside rivals every step of the way, what they lacked in ability they made up for in spirit and determination.

Half way through the first half and a lapse of concentration. Somehow Fernando Torres raced into a perfect long ball over the top from Hyppia and, having dissected the Everton defence, clipped the ball past the onrushing Tim Howard. Thankfully, his effort shaved the post and bounced behind for a goal kick.

Liverpool were largely in control possession-wise but were regularly forced to go sideways and backwards as the Blues’ back line matched every red attack mainly due to the magnificent Phil Jagielka and Lescott.

Anichebe then had a penalty appeal waved away and three Everton midfielders were caught too far over for a throw-in down the Liverpool left so when the ball came to Gerrard he had all the space he needed to take a few yards before picking his spot with an unerring drive into the bottom corner past Howard’s despairing dive.

It looked as if the game was over, but in the 87th minute Benayoun gave away a needless free-kick which Arteta swung in beautifully and talisman Cahill headed in dutifully.

It was no more then Everton deserved, the game was even for most of the match with Liverpool shading the possession and shots.

On days like this it makes you proud to be a blue.

By Jack Farrell

Comments are closed.