Barkley stunner helps Everton down QPR
17 Dec 2014 1:15 AM GMT
Barkley’s moment of magic once again prompted comparisons with former England great Paul Gascoigne and proved the catalyst for Roberto Martinez’s side to secure their first win in four Premier League matches. Kevin Mirallas doubled their lead before half-time and Steven Naismith added the third, with Bobby Zamora’s late goal offering little consolation for outclassed QPR. Everton had the added pleasure of moving above Merseyside rivals Liverpool into 10th place, while QPR remain in the relegation zone after losing their ninth successive away game in all competitions. The only worry for Everton was a late injury to Mirallas that saw the Belgium winger carried off on a stretcher. Martinez had made three changes from the Toffees team beaten by Manchester City, with Naismith back after a hamstring injury and Barkley and Aiden McGeady also starting.
Everton’s dominance was finally rewarded in the 33rd minute thanks to Barkley’s brilliance. Taking possession just inside his own half, Barkley strode forward with pace and purpose and played a one-two with Romelu Lukaku before unleashing a rising left-foot drive that took a slight deflection off QPR’s Mauricio Isla as it rocketed into the roof of Robert Green’s net.
Everton’s dominance was finally rewarded in the 33rd minute thanks to Barkley’s brilliance. Taking possession just inside his own half, Barkley strode forward with pace and purpose and played a one-two with Romelu Lukaku before unleashing a rising left-foot drive that took a slight deflection off QPR’s Mauricio Isla as it rocketed into the roof of Robert Green’s net.
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