West Ham 1-2 Everton – Five Thoughts

1) The worst and best of Lukaku

In our fan Q&A ahead of the game West Ham fan Stuart predicted Romelu Lukaku would score given his remarkable recent record against the Hammers. Right on cue, the Belgian stooped deep in injury-time to make it six goals in six games against the Londoners. It was a performance typical of the 22-year-old’s season. Lukaku struggled to impose himself on the game at times, to the obvious frustration of the supporters, but then he still popped up with a crucial goal. That’s 20 goals in all competitions now for Lukaku, the first Everton player to do so since Yakubu in 2008, yet for many he has not had a very good season. Just imagine what he could do in a good season?  It's scary what he can achieve in his career and I once again urge supporters to treasure Lukaku while we still have him in our side.

2) Solid debut for Galloway  - but what about Garbutt?

News of Leighton Baines’ injury in midweek looked to have opened up a first-team opportunity for Luke Garbutt. But Roberto Martinez sprung a surprise by selecting 19-year-old Brendan Galloway ahead of him. Galloway equipped himself well, but was given an early lesson of life in the top flight when he lost Stewart Downing for a split second, but that was all Downing needed to collect the ball and stroke home the opener. As for Garbutt, well Martinez insists his refusal to pick him does not mean the full-back is on his way out of the club when his contract expires this summer. Most supporters remain unconvinced that is actually the case.

3) Yellow cards see Europa hopes fade

West Ham and Everton went into the game pretty much neck-and-neck in the Fair Play League, with a place in next season’s Europa League the prize of whoever ends the season on top. Gareth Barry picked up his usual booking, but three further yellows - as opposed to West Ham’s one - means the Hammers are in pole position for that European spot. But given qualification requires starting next season in early July that may not be such a bad thing.

4) Leon Osman – as underrated as ever

When asked about Leon Osman’s equaliser after the game Sam Allardyce remarked that had "somebody like (Diego) Costa had done that, or Robin van Persie, everybody would be crowing about it". And that pretty much sums up Leon Osman’s career. The veteran midfielder – who turned 34 on Sunday - has always been criticised for his weaknesses far more than he is praised for his strengths. His goal on Saturday, though, was of the highest order and came at a time where Everton’s foothold in the game was slipping. Despite missing nearly three months with a serious foot injury Osman has still racked up 28 appearances, highlighting how highly rated he is by his manager even if the wider footballing world doesn't.

5)  Final farewell for Lennon?

"I think you have to ask that to a crystal ball," said Roberto Martinez over a possible deal for Aaron Lennon.  Talk of a permanent transfer for the Tottenham winger has been swirling around since the start of March when the 28-year-old began to establish himself in the Everton starting XI. His infectious enthusiasm definitely played a key role in the team’s spring revival and there is certainly room for him in the squad next season. However, Everton should not be held to ransom by Spurs, a club who have developed a reputation for being tough negotiators.  There are sure to be plenty of alternative attacking players out there meaning Everton should set a maximum price they are prepared to pay - and stick to it.