Everton tried so desperately to spoil the title-pushing party against Arsenal today, and whilst they did steal two points from them on the road, Manchester City had already done their job.
A late goal for West Ham United in the first half threatened the defending champions’ 2-0 lead, but Rodri’s placed second-half effort cemented the silverware for the Sky Blue Cityzens once again.
And whilst that will all dominate headlines, it cannot be forgotten what a solid, resolute performance Sean Dyche’s men put in on the road.
They defended like warriors, and although it was disappointing to surrender their slender lead so quickly, in the end, they cannot leave north London unhappy with the performance.
What they can leave unhappy with is the attendance of one man, who is widely disliked by all Everton fans.
Richard Masters shows his face at Everton vs Arsenal
The travelling fans were in full voice throughout the match despite the home atmosphere more than matching them, and when news of West Ham United’s opener filtered through, it was tough for Evertonians to compete.
The Emirates was bouncing, and with their equaliser having come just minutes before, there was newfound belief in north London at last.
Although in the end it did not come to anything, with Pep Guardiola’s side triumphantly claiming their fourth straight Premier League title, it promised something for a little while.
However, that all came well after Everton fans had made their feelings known towards Richard Masters, who was inexplicably in attendance at the Emirates.
‘Premier League, corrupt as ****,’ the chant went, as the CEO of the division likely sat on rather uncomfortably.
Everton send message to the Premier League once again
Whether it was his decision or not, in hindsight it seems a strange decision to send one of the most maligned men on Merseyside to this match.
After all, Evertonians’ hatred for him is well-documented, as he denotes the face of the corporation that has strived to set back Everton all season.
Through takeover turmoil or PSR sanctions, it has been a long and arduous campaign born of the Premier League’s design.
Were it not for those deductions, the Toffees would currently sit 11th in the table, having amassed 49 points.
But alas, comfortable safety was still attained, and the Premier League failed to get the dramatic relegation battle they so richly desired.