Everton fans are certainly not used to having that wining feeling in recent times, let alone a win away from home, and to make it even better, a comfortable away win. There were fears from the Everton fans going into it, as Jarrad Branthwaite ‘s fitness was a major doubt – he did not travel to Ipswich in the end. Michael Keane, famously heavily criticised most weeks by Everton fans, stepped up and massively proved his worth. He was solid defensively, with 7 clearances, 1 block, tackle and 1 interception also. Keane added to this with a 90% pass accuracy (38/42). He proved every one of his own supporters, including myself, wrong.
If a central defender has scored a goal, you typically assume it is a bullet header following a corner or a free kick. Now, it was following a corner but there was absolutely nothing normal about this finish. It was a finish that the very best strikers would be proud of, no Liverpool player could pull it off that is for sure. From a tight angle, Keane smashed it into the roof of the net following excellent footwork from Dwight McNeil to provide the assist.
It was comfortable, there is little doubt about that. This is both the product of brilliance from Everton, and a lacklustre showing from Ipswich Town. Their finishing was all over the place, particularly attackers Liam Delap and Jack Clarke. Everton were not bothered about them. Credit where credit is due, Michael Keane and Ashley Young – who are berated by their own fans weekly – have both been magnificent for the last month or so.