Source: Liverpool_Echo
Everton FC 2 Sunderland 0 - Greg O'Keeffe on how the Blues learned their lessons
Everton FC learn the lessson of FA Cup exit to Birmingham City to keep up top six chase in the Premier League win 2-0 win over Sunderland[LNB]IN SPORT as in life, learning not to make the same mistakes twice can bring long-term success.[LNB]Having been brushed out of the FA Cup in its early stages thanks to a disastrously slow start against Birmingham, David Moyes will have impressed upon his players the importance of coming out of the blocks fast.[LNB]Thankfully, Everton showed they had learned from the disappointment of defeat in the cup with an altogether brighter start which secured three points against Steve Bruce's side last night.[LNB]Defeat in the league is becoming a distant memory for the Blues, as they quietly begin to suggest their top six potential is more than just a pipe-dream.[LNB]Not since the derby in November have the Blues been beaten in the league, and promisingly they have started to turn draws into the victories which are vital if they have any hope of gate-crashing the top six.[LNB]A hard-fought draw against Sunderland on Boxing Day offered evidence that Everton could recover from their awful start.[LNB]And this comfortable victory over a side which have struggled on their travels, saw the Blues slip into ninth place in the table.[LNB]Fittingly they must now overhaul Birmingham, who reminded them that matches can be won in a half, to continue their ascent.[LNB]The bright start against Sunderland yielded instant rewards. After only seven minutes Leighton Baines went marauding down the left and slipped the ball to Fellaini who, unhindered by any semblance of defending, curled a delicious cross into the area for Cahill to apply the deftest of flicks with the back of his head past Gordon.[LNB]The Aussie's indifferent form has unsettled supporters who recognise his importance to their team for some time.[LNB]But to his credit Cahill has never once stopped toiling and sweating, desperate to rediscover his verve. He may not have enjoyed his usual gamut of goals so far this season, but on occasions when he has had cause to pummel those corner flags it has been testament to a man who refuses to hide in the face of poor form.[LNB]Everton went close again shortly after when the ball broke for Pienaar and he tried to play in Saha who loitered with intent, but Gordon was quick off his line.[LNB]Cahill was instrumental again when the Blues doubled their lead. This time he correctly judged a long punt from Baines, and flicked his header into the path of Landon Donovan who confidently took the ball into his stride and fired past the hapless Gordon.[LNB]Supporters who were disappointed when Everton did not sign Matthew Kilgallon, should note how easily the centre half was out-jumped by Cahill.
