They say one brings two, and in the case of Merseyside derbies that proved to be the case earlier this week when, with one derby looming on the horizon, Everton drew Liverpool in the 3rd round of the FA Cup.Just when the Toffees faithful thought things couldn’t get any more bleak, they were handed a fixture that they are apparently incapable of winning.Their last victory on the red side of Stanley Park arrived in 1999, but Marco Silva’s men will have an opportunity to end that barren run this evening.Michael Ball, a man who played 122 games for Everton and is something of a favourite around Goodison Park, still managed to maintain a sense of humour despite the tough break.
Naturally, we can only assume by Ball’s emoji selection and hashtag that this is indeed a swipe at Everton’s city rivals.
A sly dig at the lack of local supporters in the home end is a staple of most footballing vocabularies if you’re not part of the established elite, and no opportunity to reach for that jibe has been wasted here.
Bravo, Mr Ball, well played.
The FA Cup traditionally offers away supporters the opportunity to take over the entire end of a stadium, with travelling contingents exceeding 5k representing the norm, so expect to see a blue swarm occupying the Anfield Road end in its entirety when the tie swings round in January.
For now, a smaller band of away fans will be desperately hoping their side can pull off an upset at Anfield tonight.
In other news, Everton fans have reacted to Mauricio Pochettino’s comments regarding his future…
