Fulham reaction delights Everton boss

Everton manager Roberto Martinez was delighted with the reaction of his team against Fulham after the cottagers had equalised through a disputed penalty.  The Spaniards Everton team went into a higher gear after the award, following a Gareth Barry challenge, and went on to score a further 3 goals despite not playing at their best.

The toffees stay unbeaten at home in 2013 and are also starting to score a lot more goals, which seem to be shared throughout the team.

The Everton boss said:  “It probably wasn’t a 4-1 performance but we deserved the three points and to be able to react to the penalty in that manner is really pleasing.

“It wasn’t one of our best days. I was a bit fearful before the game because we were a bit fatigued after the two away games, which were very demanding. We didn’t pass the ball as sharp as usual.

“In the first half, we controlled the game. If you want to be critical, we could have scored a second goal to change it but we held Fulham to not having a shot on target.

“In the second half, you have to give great credit to Fulham. We were in a period of having something to lose and they were well organised, pressing us high up and stopping us from playing.

“And then once you get that draw, I’ve seen it so many times – the home team collapses and you lose the game.

“But all of a sudden, our mindset changed. We had nothing to lose and wanted to win the game. We were brave, adventurous and creative in the final third.”

Of the attacking prowess Martinez continued:  “We got four goals which is pleasing because in other games we’ve had more chances and not been able to convert them.

“I always measure the side by how they react to adversity and if they keep doing the right things when things don’t go your way.

“We conceded a goal undeservedly against Arsenal and we responded and we did that again today.

“It would have been all too easy to feel sorry for ourselves, panic and lose the game.

“We were more focused than ever. We had a real threat and on the counter attack we were a real tough side to handle. We took advantage of the opportunities.”

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