Lacklustre Everton no match for Bolton or Sturridge

Bolton Wanderers 2 Everton 0:OWEN COYLE and David Moyes share a heritage, career path and managerial reputation but one critical distinction divided the Glaswegians here.

One managed a team, the other a passionless group of individuals, and it naturally follows that Bolton’s collective are eyeing the Europa League while Everton are drifting towards a relegation fight.

“That performance was as bad as I can remember since I’ve been in charge,” said Everton’s manager of almost nine years.

There was a time, not too long ago, when Everton were lauded for team spirit and Moyes for inspiring a unit to punch above its weight. Those qualities could be found only in Coyle and his Bolton side yesterday, and their absence from Everton’s display does not cover the litany of the visitors’ weaknesses.

Everton were complacent from the start, careless throughout and, worst of all for a side managed by Moyes, uncommitted.

The temporary acquisition of Daniel Sturridge from Chelsea has reinvigorated Bolton. His third goal in three games capped an energetic, incisive display from a young striker. His standing ovation on being substituted was fully merited.

“It is only three points but it was a terrific performance. There are so many positives to take,” said the Bolton manager.

Bolton took the lead after nine minutes. Everton defended Stuart Holden’s free-kick in a manner befitting their lackadaisical approach. Gary Cahill was the only player to attack the ball, Sylvain Distin left his marker and his team-mates stood back as the England international scored his first goal of the season, a header that deflected in off Heitinga.

Tim Cahill should have levelled from Everton’s first attack but prodded wide from a cross by Leighton Baines. Bolton settled the contest midway through the second half through Sturridge. Gary Cahill again caused problems in the opposition area and, when the substitute Lee Chung-yong beat Baines in the air, the loose ball fell perfectly for the forward to finish into the far corner.

Guardian Service