 THE scene for this game against recent strugglers Wigan Athletic at the JJB stadium had been set days before kick-off. In an exclusive interview on Everton’s official website, midfielder Tim Cahill spoke of the need to go back to playing ‘the ugly side of the game’, preventing teams from scoring and hopefully nicking a goal or two to win. While it may well have been in David Moyes’ game plan anyway, the blustery weather conditions coupled with a dreadful pitch negated any chance of free-flowing football and the game was far from an enticing spectacle, with little quality on show from either side. However, as Moyes pointed out in his post-match interview, any win away from home must be seen as a positive and the three points see his Everton side move up into seventh place in the table, with a European spot still a realistic target. A nasty-looking injury sustained by Andy Johnson early in the second half effectively changed the game, although reports that preliminary x-rays showed no obvious fracture to the striker’s ankle will be welcomed by Evertonians desperate to see him fit to face rivals Liverpool in the derby at Anfield in a fortnight’s time. Johnson was replaced by youngster Victor Anichebe and his physical presence proved too stern a test for former blue David Unsworth, who conceded a penalty after launching into a reckless challenge on the edge of the area. The spot-kick was coolly converted by Mikel Arteta and despite a long spell of pressure from Wigan, Everton were able to hold onto their lead, before the Spaniard slotted home again to ensure all three points in stoppage time, after some excellent build-up play involving Davies, Beattie and Neville. Everton’s defence was resolute throughout the second half, with Howard commanding his area well and Yobo and Stubbs particularly impressive against the threat of Heskey and McCulloch. One man, however, stood head and shoulders above the rest in a game that required doggedness and determination above all else. Lee Carsley’s contribution to the team is often massively underrated by the fans. Yet his no-nonsense style of play and his willingness to sit-in and protect the back four and get the ‘ugly stuff’ done in Moyes’ preferred 4-5-1 formation is crucial, and gives the likes of Cahill and Arteta a much greater license to get forward and support in attack. Against Wigan, Carsley played his role to perfection showing why he has been an ever-present in Moyes’ side so far this season and deservedly earning the plaudits of his team-mates after the match. With the transfer deadline drawing ever closer, Moyes revealed he is hopeful some business will be concluded this week, but as ever was suitably vague as to whether the deals would involve movement into or out of the club. Simon Davies has been the subject of frequent speculation linking him with a move to Fulham, although Moyes this week revealed that a bid from the London club had been rejected and the midfielder’s inclusion in the side on Sunday could indicate he is unlikely to move during this window. James Beattie is another player rumoured to be on his way out of Goodison, although it is doubtful he would be allowed to move on unless a replacement had been lined up, despite the emergence of Anichebe. Whether there are to be any additions to the squad remains to be seen, but with a two-week break ahead of the next Premiership fixture, Moyes at least has plenty of time to focus on his targets. | 
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