Everton player ratings vs West Ham United: Sluggish performance as Iwobi misses golden chance

Alex Iwobi squandered a golden opportunity to score in the first half

Midfield:

Andros Townsend – 6.5

Andros Townsend looked full of intent but Everton just couldn’t get forward enough in the first half. The former Newcastle United man did manage to put some enticing and inviting crosses in the box but the lack of a serious goal poacher meant that Everton couldn’t capitalize on Townsend’s deliveries.

Allan – 5.5

Allan had to tread carefully whether to choose between shielding the centre backs or providing some support forward as Rice and Soucek were dominating the midfield for West Ham. With the Hammers attacking and creating pressure in the Everton half, Allan had to aid Keane and Godfrey’s cause often rather than lending support in the opposition half.

Abdoulaye Doucoure – 6

With West Ham attacking with force and numbers, Abdoulaye Doucoure couldn’t get involved in the attack frequently. The Frenchman made nine recoveries and had an impressive pass completion rate of 94%. Despite not enjoying the same freedom to surge forward, he looked energetic as always and made his presence felt throughout the game.

Alex Iwobi – 4

Demarai Gray served the easiest balls to Iwobi who just had to put it in the back of the net but the Nigerian completely missed the ball and didn’t even make contact with the ball. He just lacked confidence and was surely having one of the worst days this season. In the second half, he operated centrally and Gray slotted out wide but that didn’t produce any favourable results for Iwobi.