Perhaps hinting a willingness to take the tie back to Stamford Bridge, Carlo Ancelotti's brought Mikel John Obi off the bench, set to replace Frank Lampard in what would normally be a defensive move. The move, however, could just be able trying something new, as Lampard has not influenced the match. But in lieu of keeping on a player with an attacker's profile who has done little attacking, may as well bring on a player who might influence the match.
Everton FC Vs. Chelsea FC: Frank Lampard Off, John Mikel Obi On As Regulation Time Winds Down
Now in the 84th minute, Mikel stands at the sideline while Chelsea enjoys a rare spell of possession. A great ball from the back from Petr Cech one minute ago established Chelsea possession deep in the Everton half. Since, the Toffees have been packed in, with the Blues willing to kick the ball around the perimeter of defense rather than forgo possession.
Entering the 86th minute, Mikel is now on, possibly hinting at a more advanced role for Michael Essien, though the Ghanaian is still dropping deep to get the ball. And as he does, with the ball moving left-to-right along the back, and innocent ball placed from Branislav Ivanovic to Ramires allowed the Brazilian to turn up field and blast a 30-yard shot, one that hits the bottom of Tim Howard's left post.
With David Moyes responding to Ancelotti's change by bringing on Jermaine Beckford, a 4-4-2 Everton are set to pursue a second goal over the match's final three minutes of regulation time.
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