SAM ALLARDYCE HAS defended the style of play that saw Everton grind out a drab 1-0 win over Newcastle United at Goodison Park on Monday.
Theo Walcott netted the lone goal shortly after half-time as the hosts’ only shot on target proved enough to end a three-game winless run.
They are now eighth in the Premier League – one point ahead of Leicester City – but the manner of a fifth successive victory in this fixture will have done little to assuage Allardyce’s critics.
However, the 63-year-old was satisfied with an eighth Premier League victory in his time in charge and instead accused former employers Newcastle of negative tactics.
“What was wrong with our style today? We completely dominated the game,” Allardyce said on Sky Sports.
We were patient, we got the winner. You can’t knock our football. You can knock some of the passing that goes astray buy you can’t knock me for that, I don’t pass the ball.
“When does every fan like the manager? I will keep doing what I’m doing because we keep winning and keep getting better.
“I think eighth in the league compared to fifth from bottom tells you we’re getting better.”
Newcastle, meanwhile, were left with a first defeat in five league fixtures as they missed a chance to move level on points with ninth-place Leicester City.
Magpies boss Rafael Benitez, who oversaw his 100th match in charge of the club, disagreed with Allardyce’s assessment of Everton’s victory.
“We played against a good team. The style and type of football wasn’t amazing but they won and that’s it,” Benitez said.
We had two or three chances. The final pass is the difference, especially in the Premier League. You have to take these chances to make a difference.
“I’m pleased with the effort of the players. To stay in the Premier League was the target and we are really clear with that.”
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Shame for Barry o’mahoney, seemed a great ail player with a lot of potential. Always seemed like he was never given the opportunity he deserved with the first team
Going from one Winter to Another. Cead mile failte Prionsias.
Makes a difference from having to wait until October or November for a foreign arrival, exhausted after a Southern season. Couple this arrival with hopefully a fit and motivated Bleyandal and good service from the returning Tomás we could be looking quite decent in the backs during the World Cup period.
Niiice. Welcome fella.
Seriously this could be what Munster have been crying out for. Looks very exciting I have to say.
We think so. But you never know with these guys. JDV should have been our greatest signing but took a year to settle in. By the time we had figured him out (and he us), he was gone.
Wait until he sees the squad minus the Irish players.
” Is this it !”
Nice new photo Cian..
Could be worse, we could have a one season rookie in charge.
Errr…. thanks.
Hurley and Saili could be a very well balanced centre pairing