I've never felt more like singin' the blues

An interesting day today. Jacob and I walked Marty this morning and saw a couple of Redwings and a Buzzard at the park - always nice. Post dog walk we headed off to Goodison in nervous mood. We'd missed a couple of recent home games with other engagements taking priority. The home defeat to Sunderland was disappointing and I was worried today given that several key players were out and all credit to Southampton, they've been doing well. It's always a pleasure walking down Goodison Road, Jacob and I always take the same route, it's a ritual and greatly enjoyed in the sunshine this afternoon. 

The old lady in the sunshine

Piper at the gates of Goodison (blue tunes only).

Prior to the game we all took part on a moment of applause for all Evertonians who passed away in 2013. All fans in the Park End held up a placard in memory. A class act from a club that seems to be refinding its feet under Roberto's management. 

The Park End prior to the match.

The game was an interesting one, Seamus Coleman's goal testament to his speed, skill and threat. James McCarthy played fantastically - he was everywhere, a pleasure to watch. Gareth Barry and his family were sat near us and he must have been delighted at the progress his young protege is making. After the break Everton allowed Southamtpon into the game and paid for it with a superb strike by substitute Ramirez, 1.1. The mighty blues retained the lead quickly with some fast, attacking football resulting in a clinical and thumping strike for the hard-working and skillful Lukaku, 2.1. The game continued end to end, a decent game of football. Good to see Alcacaraz, a precise, passing, calm centre back, play well. I doubt Robles will oust Howard anytime soon, but he did okay. Bainesy played his part and it'll be interesting to see how he and Oviedo play together if given the chance. Good to see Roberto still in his brown shoes....

Only bird of note over the ground was a female Sparrowhawk being mobbed over the Gwaldys Street by a flock of Starlings. 

Really nice to arrive home with our friends Steph, Seth and Jethro visiting from Skipton. Lovely folk and a discussion about planning a weekend away in 2014 was very welcome. 

When Steph and the lads left we watched the second half of the Chelski game. As much as I find Chekski distasteful it was good to see them win against Alan Green's champions elect (how he must have sqealed on Radio 5). Nice for Everton to end the weekend in 4th, it's strange how twitter is free of Christmas Day league table standings today, but then it isn't Christmas Day  now is it? 

Anyway. Altogether now;  "I've never felt more than singing the blues when Everton win and the ***** lose. Oh, Everton, you got me singing the blues....