Rating

Howard was rarely tested in the first period but his second half performance was really solid.

Made a couple of fine saves to deny West Ham United getting back into the game and was unlucky to concede as Mauro Zarate’s shot had taken a wicked deflection.

Seamus Coleman – 7

A real threat going forward as well as strong at the back, Coleman delivered what was expected of him – an all round performance.

Jagielka put in a decent performance on the day but he was troubled a bit by the industry of Zarate.

Could have closed down Zarate a bit quicker for West Ham’s equalizer but all in all, it was a good performance from the England international.

Sylvain Distin – 7

Calm and collected on the ball as usual, Distin also magnificently dealt with the aerial threat posed by Andy Carroll.

Considering that he played out of position at left back, Hibbert performed very well on the day.

Although perhaps guilty of giving Carl Jenkinson too much space, Hibbert did not do much wrong and Martinez would most certainly have been pleased with the veteran defender’s performance.

Ross Barkley – 6.5

However, as a stain to his performance, the young man was widely and deservedly criticized for conning the referee into giving a free kick with a blatant dive.

Playing without his midfield partner Gareth Barry, McCarthy had a big responsibility on his shoulders and it has to be said that he performed well.

Did not do to anything eye catching but he was solid nonetheless. Very lucky to stay on the pitch for a rash challenge on Morgan Amalfitano though.

Leon Osman – 7.5

Osman aptly managed to grab the winner on his special day and other than his goal, the midfielder ran his legs off for Everton at the middle of the park.

Made his long awaited return from injury and the Belgian looked like he was not still yet back to his best.

Did show flashes but not his usual best. However, his return has been a huge boost for Everton.

Steven Naismith – 7

Running up and down the wings, Naismith was one of Everton’s most potent attacking threats.

Sadly his game came to a premature end after he was stretched off during the second half for a thigh injury.

Opened the scoring with a well taken goal, although he did look a yard offside.

Was brimming with confidence after finding the net and the striker did well throughout the game to put the Hammers’ backline under pressure.

Muhamed Besic – NA

A late replacement for the injured Naismith and he did not have time to make much of an impact.

Samuel Eto’o – 7.5

Brought a new impetus to the Everton attack after his introduction and provided a fine assist to allow Osman to grab the winner. A wonderful cameo from the Cameroonian superstar.