Just read this article online, spot on imo:
It's high time that Everton boss David Moyes started to come in for more criticism regarding his negative tactics. Another typically over-cautious display saw the Toffees squander a 1-0 lead and ultimately lose the FA Cup semifinal 2-1 to Merseyside rivals Liverpool.
Everton's performance after they scored was one of a team whose only focus was to protect what they had. Even after Luis Suarez pounced on an uncharacteristic error from Sylvain Distin to equalise, Everton appeared content to play for extra time.
It's not the first time Moyes has sent his team out to play this way in a big game and it is a waste of the talent Everton do possess and the style the club was once synonymous with.
The team selection made this author nervous, particularly the choices at striker. Tim Cahill has been a loyal club servant, but the goals have stopped and the combative Australian doesn't offer anything to Everton's possession play. Yet Moyes still insists on having Cahill lead the line in pivotal matches.
Nikica Jelavic posed a threat but ultimately spent too much of the game occupying wide areas. In midfield, there was no sign of Royston Drenthe, a player with the guile and trickery to add some real flair to the attack.
This has been the pattern from Moyes when it counts.
The fiery Scot will pack his team with runners and grafters and play not to lose. His constant protestations about the club's legitimate financial constraints should now be falling on deaf ears.
The likes of Wigan Athletic and Swansea City manage to play attractive, expansive football on limited budgets. It takes a commitment to playing an open style that Moyes has never shown a willingness to make.
In the process, he has wasted some good teams who should have won some silverware and been more regular participants in UEFA competitions. Everton were always noted as a footballing side and Goodison Park was bestowed the moniker, "the school of science."
However, the conservative approach the team has adopted under Moyes has traded in those values and traditions for dour pragmatism. A club of Everton's stature and rich history is duty-bound to strive for more.
