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Newcastle United 2-1 Everton | Match Report By Sam Quine

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After winning their first four games, Everton are now three games without a win thanks to a Callum Wilson brace at St. James’ Park today.

Everton have proved to be slow starters so far this season and this game was no exception with no real chance being created in the first half. Despite having 63% possession in the game, Carlo Ancelotti’s men had little to show for it as they recorded only four shots on target. Andre Gomes clumsily took down Callum Wilson in the area who then went on to score the penalty that seemed to give momentum to the Magpies who looked dangerous on the counter attack as Yerry Mina and Michael Keane were caught out on a few occasions.

A Wilson second seemed to be the nail in the coffin for Everton after he tapped in a deflected Ryan Fraser cross before Everton finally started to play with more impetus in stoppage time with Calvert-Lewin netting his eight league goal. However the late surge proved to be too little too late as Everton were beaten after showing a very lethargic display.

The team selection was a confusing one for fans as we saw Niels Nkounkou and Robin Olsen make their league debuts as well as Fabian Delph and Jonjoe Kenny return to the starting lineup. A decision to pack the midfield with five players proved to be the wrong one as the Everton performance was full of five yard passes going either backwards or sideways and no player adding dynamism or giving service to the centre forward.

Bernard added some much needed creativity when subbed on but fans will be left confused as to why Anthony Gordon didn’t make a feature today as the game seemed to be begging for an injection of pace and skill which is something Gordon has shown he possesses.

It is apparent that this team is lacking in squad depth and more specifically, creativity in that depth. Everton have never won a game when Richarlison isn’t playing and with him suspended and James Rodriguez injured , the Blues have become a one dimensional attacking team as the ball is played down the wing in attempts to cross to Dominic Calvert Lewin in most cases. This is predictable for opposition defences and was seen today as Jamaal Lascelles, Federico Fernandez and Fabian Schar dealt with balls into the box with ease.

One of the few positives fans can take from the game is Olsen’s performance who was brought in to replace Jordan Pickford, presumably due to his poor displays over recent weeks. The Swedish keeper produced two great saves and looked confident between the sticks which may give Ancelotti a headache on who should start against Manchester United next game.