What – despite what Sean Dyche claimed publicly – was always a huge game for Everton against Leeds United – took on even greater significance because of the scorelines elsewhere last Saturday but at least this weekend’s fixtures ensure at least some of the Blues’ relegation rivals will drop points.
Everton captain and match-winner Seamus Coleman – whose spectacular strike from a tight angle secured a monumental three points for his side – admitted that he and his team-mates caught a glimpse of how things were going elsewhere with just a couple of minutes to go and it “wasn’t great for our nerves.” Bournemouth, without a win since they thrashed Everton 3-0 in their final fixture before the World Cup back on November 12, won 1-0 at Wolverhampton Wanderers while managerless bottom club Southampton also triumphed away, 1-0 at Chelsea, for their first three points since they defeated the Blues 2-1 at Goodison Park on January 14.
Nottingham Forest also picked up a point at home to reigning champions Manchester City but thankfully for Dyche’s side, both of last Sunday’s results went in Everton’s favour with Leicester City and West Ham losing 3-0 at Manchester United and 2-0 at Tottenham Hotspur respectively. Here’s a look at what all the other sides involved in the battle against the drop are up to this weekend.
