Source: Liverpool_Echo
Fresh injuries sober up Everton after Europa League win in Athens
FRESH INJURIES SOBER up BLUES[LNB]DAVID MOYES savoured a return to winning ways after his team secured a determined victory over AEK Athens to clinch a place in the knock-out stages of the Europa League.[LNB]Russian midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov scored the only goal of the game on a rain-soaked night at the Olympic Stadium in the Greek capital to hand the Blues only their second win in 12 matches and three vital points which ensured they qualified alongside Benfica from Group I with a game to spare.[LNB]It was a gutsy display from Moyes' team, who were forced to defend for long spells in the second half after losing defenders Dan Gosling and Sylvain Distin and Brazilian striker Jo to injuries during the game.[LNB]'I was pleased, especially with the outcome of the game,' said Moyes. 'The early goal helped us. [LNB]"The young players who came in did really well tonight and I'm delighted with them.[LNB]'It's very important to have qualified with a game to spare as it gives us a week where we don't need to be too intense with the squad.'[LNB]Heavy rain just before kick-off and during the game meant the state of the pitch deteriorated, and surface water troubled both teams.[LNB]Moyes admitted the conditions made it difficult for his team to grind out the result.[LNB]'I think the conditions did play a part. It was an energy-sapping pitch,' said the Scot. 'It was like back to the old days. I would have enjoyed it in my playing days but I don't know how some of the players felt about the conditions.'
