You learn quickly as an Everton fan to never get too comfortable. Back in the day, Goodison Park was a tough place to play; it was loud, and the Toffees always played hard. As of recent times, however, EFC have not been playing well, and have lost as many home games already this year (five) as all of last season. So I was cautious to be too excited after a solid win over Fulham last Friday in which Everton played great soccer. Well, today wasn't necessarily great soccer, but it was a flashback to the last couple of years when Goodison was rocking, and the Toffees stepped up their defensive effort as they toppled the league leaders Man City 1-0. Another assist for Donovan and a first (this season) EPL goal for Manchester United transfer Darron Gibson.
Today was the transfer deadline for the EPL, and although we get excited in America when the trade deadline comes in the MLB and NBA, that excitement pales in comparison with the unbridled fervor for the transfer deadline overseas. One difference is that "trades" as we understand them don't really exist. Teams can buy and sell at will, and players can put in requests to be sold as well. The craziest part of this time though, and the most fun to follow, are the rumors. Seemingly, every player is linked with every team. Stars and end of the roster players alike. On Twitter, I saw one writer compare it to a crack addiction. Not far off. Today Everton came away with not only a win, but a Croatian striker and a return (on loan) of a former midfielder who will help the rest of the year. The rest of the year comes quickly, as the fight to get to the top half is on, and today was a great start. A classic Everton win.
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