Everton 1-1 Newcastle United: Wasteful

On a gloomy, rainy night at Goodison Park, Everton’s performance matched the Liverpool weather. Despite easily out-possessing and out-shooting Newcastle United, a 1-1 draw was the best the Blues were able to get out of the game.

Richarlison did get a goal on Everton’s tenth corner of the match, but it was nowhere near enough against a stubborn and at times violent Newcastle defense. Ademola Lookman received his first start of the season, and Cenk Tosun was welcomed back into the fold.

Problem is, the attackers chosen by Marco Silva looked like they hadn’t played together all year - which checks out. Runs not made and passes not hit properly were the story of the night, and most of the big chances that Everton did get were wasted. Cenk Tosun had a golden opportunity saved by Martin Dubravka, and Theo Walcott was in behind the defense later on only to slow up and turn the ball over.

Ademola Lookman had his moments of genius, as usual, but was overall too inconsistent and did not do much to stake a claim for a regular starting spot. Andre Gomes again was the man of the match with a stellar midfield display, while Yerry Mina fell asleep for Salomon Rondon’s opening goal.

In the end, it was a call back to last season. Everton should have won this game, and they needed to win this game. Newcastle United are terrible - their caveman tactics today prove as much - and so today was a missed opportunity. Watford on Monday represents another such opportunity, and Marco Silva’s men would do well not to waste that one, too.