While Champions League football next year may be a goal to remain forever elusive for Everton there is yet more mounting evidence that David Moyes and his players are pushing closer to a position of respect as a team worthy of discussion in the same breath as the perennial English representatives in Europe’s premier competition. The draw leaves Everton two points behind fourth placed Chelsea, albeit with an extra two games played.
A 0-0 draw with Arsenal, last night at the Emirates, was seen by Moyes as a commendable performance that further cements his team in the conversations on the top 4, but also a missed opportunity.
“Overall it was a terrific performance. I’m disappointed we didn’t get three points.”
“It’s no disgrace to come here and take a point at the Emirates.”
“I think we’ll get a slight mention at the end of every conversation when it’s talked about the Champions League.”
Moyes singled out the midfield pairing of Marouane Fellaini and Darron Gibson for special praise, saying he felt the duo “were exceptional tonight.”
Moyes also spoke of the continuing improvement of Seamus Coleman, the former Sligo Rovers man who continues to impress for Everton. Moyes spoke of Coleman’s capacity for further improving his game, while also praising the Donegal man’s work ethic and commitment.
“He’s improving all the time, he really is.
“He’s still got a lot of learning to do as a professional as much as anything.
“He’s completely wholehearted and committed, which as every manager will tell you is a great bonus.”
Following the match Arsene Wenger claimed Gibson should have been given a second booking for a cynical foul on Theo Walcott. Moyes, however, dismissed the idea out of hand, saying “I disagree totally,” before quickly pointing out he felt Wenger’s men were quick to go down under challenges.
“We had to kick the ball out of play about eight or nine times tonight. Every time there was a tackle an Arsenal player went down, we had to give them the ball back. I was actually getting bored with it at times.”
Listen to David Moyes’ full post-match press conference via the player below
