My Player Ratings vs Everton (H)

Player Ratings

Steve Harper (8) - Made some really good saves and was not really helped by his defence at times. We'd have conceded more had it not been for him today.

Steven Taylor (6) - Did fairly well in the right back role, although his positioning was poor at times. Went forward nicely but lacked a good cross that could lead to something. Along with Simpson, should take some blame for giving Arteta far too much space during the game.

Mike Williamson (6) - Made some solid tackles but cannot be happy about the space Osman and Jagielka had for their goals.

Fabricio Coloccini (6) - Thought he did certain things well but again, Osman and Jagielka were virtually not marked which cannot happen in the penalty area. Especially as he was just ball watching for their first goal.

Jose Enrique (5) - Unable to have any real impact on the game and was unfortunately withdrawn due to injury late in the first half.

Danny Simpson (6) - He defended well but was not able to adapt to playing right midfield. It came as no surprise when he ended the game in his familiar position. Arteta was allowed too much space during the game and as stated some of the blame should go to him.

Cheik Tiote (7.5) - I thought he was once again very good today. Controlled the ball well, won challenges and tried to get us on the front foot. His set pieces weren't bad too.

Kevin Nolan (7) - Lots of effort from the captain as always and he looked dangerous in the first half. It came as no surprise that he took the shot which led to our goal for Everton were unable to mark him properly in that half. Put in a good shift for the team despite the result although he was less effective in the second half.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - Looked good today and played some really good through balls, one of which opened their defence up for the goal. Has been on good form as of the last month or so in my opinion.

Peter Lovenkrands (4.5) - I thought he was really poor today. Hardly had a shot on goal and never looked like creating an opening. The fact that he got to finish the game shows how few options we have at the moment.

Leon Best (7.5) - Really put himself about, took his goal easily and could have had more. 6 goals in about 9 starts is excellent and well done to the lad. Never expected him to do as well but long may it continue.

Substitutes
Shola Ameobi (6.5) - Had some good moments and troubled Everton's defence without being able to put the ball in the net though.

Shane Ferguson (6) - Showed glimpses of why he is highly thought of at the club but should have been given more time.

Shefki Kuqi (4) - Made no impact in the few minutes he was on for.

Man of the Match - Steve Harper