Why Newcastle needn't stop the Goodison juggernaut

Feb 21 2006 By Mark Lawrenson, Daily Post

EVERTON'S winning momentum at the start of 2006 has been stalled by the absence of a game at the weekend.

But I don't see that as any reason to stop their climb up the table.

The players have been given the chance to recharge their batteries in the sunshine of Miami and at this stage of the season that will not do any harm.

A few days away from the usual routine, bonding together away from the glare of publicity, will have set the players up for a final push up the table.

And with so much money riding on each place, a further four places higher up will bring a welcome additional million or so for a club that has worked hard to increase its turnover, which has resulted in them breaking into the top 20 in the annual Deloitte and Touche rankings.

The players should come back relaxed and raring to go again, starting at Newcastle, who have enjoyed a resurgence since the sacking of Graeme Souness.

But it is one without a solid foundation.

They have beaten Portsmouth and Southampton while Aston Villa missed a penalty to lose to the Geordies. The midfield and attack have been winning games - but they still look vulnerable at the back.

A refreshed Everton should travel to the north east with high hopes of staying on a roll.

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