GOOD Friday signals the start of a hectic run of games as the Premiership enters its’ final stage of the season, with those teams struggling to avoid relegation and those fighting to secure a European spot all acutely aware that every point is now more crucial than ever.
Everton entertain Chris Coleman’s Fulham in an evening kick-off at Goodison- a fixture with an added incentive for both teams. Everton, having returned to Merseyside following Monday’s game against Aston Villa with only a point to show for their efforts despite dominating the opening half, need a win to take them back above Bolton ahead of Monday’s crunch clash at the Reebok. Fulham, on the other hand, need the points for altogether different reasons, as their recent run of form has seen them drift perilously close to the bottom of the table.
Somewhat bizarrely, all previous Premiership clashes between the two clubs have resulted in a victory for the home team, and last season’s game at Goodison produced two of the Blues’ best goals of the season, courtesy of James Beattie and James McFadden as Everton ran out comfortable 3-1 winners.
Chris Coleman’s side will be looking to buck that trend this time around with one player in particular especially eager to upset the record.
Simon Davies’ move to Fulham from Everton in January ended a largely disappointing spell on Merseyside for the Welshman, but he is looking forward to his Goodison return. Citing Everton’s strong defensive qualities and work ethic as the secret to their success, along with the goal-scoring threat of Andy Johnson, and the great support from the fans, Davies admits Fulham will have to work exceptionally hard if they are to come away with a result.
The midfielder has settled in well at Craven Cottage. Having struggled to command a regular place in the team during his spell at Everton, he has featured in every league game for Fulham since his debut against Sheffield United and is an integral part of their midfield, performing consistently and with confidence and most notably producing a man of the match performance against Premiership leaders Manchester United.
Although Davies struggled to settle in the North West, and will himself admit that due to a variety of reasons his move to Everton did not match either his or the fans’ expectations, his commitment during his time here was never called into question and as such, he should receive a warm reception from the home fans tomorrow night, along with fellow former blue Brian McBride, although Tomasz Radzinski is unlikely to be afforded the same courtesy!
With Manuel Fernandes still ruled out with a thigh strain, Everton will be looking to Mikel Arteta, who was in sparkling form against Aston Villa, to carve out opportunities and punish Fulham from set pieces and the pace of Johnson up front should be enough to ensure the Cottagers return to London empty-handed.
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