Roberto: Football can be a cruel game

Everton were bitterly disappointing once again, this time away at Norwich City. After completely dominating the first half just like they did on Monday against Crystal Palace, the Blues scored just once and let their lesser opponents back into the game.

Roberto Martinez rued his side's missed chances -

"It's a combination of feelings. Football can be cruel game and it was today.

"The performance was strong, especially in the first half when we were well in control. We had enough chances to kill the game but in the second half we had to defend two corners. One went in and then we couldn't find that luck in front of goal.

"It was similar to [the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on] Monday. We deserved three points but we dropped points, we need to grow quickly and turn draws into wins.

"It's only natural that when you go away the home side have a say but we controlled Norwich really well and it's very unfortunate to concede from a corner.

"Our intensity was good throughout but there's a real sense of frustration when you don't get that second goal.

"The home side could have been out of the game at half time and we gave them hope. Then they get momentum with the goal but even at that point we carried on looking for victory until the last kick of game"

On defender John Stones playing after he looked like he'd injured himself in the warmups -

"John is a young man growing so quickly, he is very mature and a leader in the group.

"He twisted his ankle but didn't want to come off. He produced a very strong and dominant performance of a man who plays well beyond his years."