EVERTON FOOTBALL CLUB - News Archive

Everton 2-1 Blackburn

Another brilliant goal by young sensation Wayne Rooney has earned Everton a 2-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers in a action packed match at Goodison Park.

Rooney started for the first time since September and he delivered a great performance. Every time he got the ball he looked a threat and Blackburn had no answer when he grabbed the winning goal in the 25th minute.

Blackburn took the lead after just six minutes when a David Thompson free-kick was headed home by an unmarked Andy Cole.

Everton weren't going to lie down and die... Lee Carsley levelled on 12 minutes. Kevin Campbell found space, he picked out Rooney in the box who shot came back off the post and Lee Carsley gratefully poked the loose ball over the line.

13 Minutes later Richard Wrights long clearance bounced in Rooney’s direction and the 17-year old headed the ball past two defenders before sprinting past them and sliding a lovely finish, on the run, past Brad Friedel.

Andy Cole came close to making it 2-2 when he hit the post on the stroke of half-time.

The second half was end to end with both teams having chances.

Wayne Rooney found Carsley with a marvellous pass but the Irishman fired over, Seconds later Thomas Gravesen ran through only to pull his final effort wide.

Ex-Everton player Craig Short was the backbone of the Blackburn defence, without Craig, Rooney may of scored two or three.

Martin Taylor came close with a great header and a Thompson free-kick that flashed over also made the home crowd hold their breath. Lucas Neill was sent-off in the 74th minute for a second bookable offence after hauling down Tony Hibbert.

A great game, from a great Everton side, and it was fitting that the three points came from a great goal from a truly great player. A great display which sees Everton rise above a Liverpool team who are currently enduring their worst run 9 years.

BRING ON THE DERBY!!!

Team Points

1. Arsenal 35

2. Man United 35

3. Chelsea 34

4. Everton 32

5. Liverpool 31