THE GOODISON FILES

THE NOT-SO-NOISY NEIGHBOURS

Goodison Park wasn’t quiet last night but neither was it the bearpit it’s been for other big games this season. Beat City and Everton would have given Liverpool the chance to win their first title for 25 years so, although Ross Barkley’s opener brought the house down — mainly because of its stunning quality — there was less chanting and shouting as City went into a 3-1 lead. Romelu Lukaku’s goal midway through the second half received a relatively muted celebration but while the fans were in two minds, there was no questioning the Everton players’ commitment.

FROM NO, NO TO YAYA

Yaya Toure was probably Roberto Mancini’s greatest legacy. There were questions over why City spent £24million on the lumbering midfielder but, on this form, Barcelona must be kicking themselves for letting him go. Yes, he’s got power but the Ivorian has vision and a sublime touch, too. His pass for Aguero’s opening goal for City was fantastic.

AGUERO WORLD CUP FEAR

Will Sergio Aguero’s problems throw a World Cup lifeline to out-of-favour former City striker Carlos Tevez? Argentina boss Alex Sabella has a problem after Aguero, out twice this season, limped out after scoring.

HODGSON ENDS DAY ON A HIGH

Roy Hodgson would have enjoyed his trip to Goodison far more than his visit earlier in the day to see Manchester United. Joe Hart made an exceptional save to deny Steven Naismith, Phil Jagielka returned from a hamstring injury while James Milner, Leighton Baines and John Stones did little wrong.

NOEL’S EVENING GLORY

No need for Oasis star Noel Gallagher to look back in anger, although he went through the emotional ringer. He looked glumness personified when Aguero limped off but was soon hugging his pals in delight.

RIVALS UNITE TO TAUNT GERRARD

One thing united Everton and City fans… their mickey-taking of Steve Gerrard. He wasn’t allowed to forget last weekend’s slip against Chelsea.