HARD-EARNED WIN FOR EVERTON F.C. WITH QUESTIONS STILL TO BE ANSWERED

The three points we basically robbed from the South Coast say a lot about the enduring class of Tim Howard, not to mention the increasing dominance of Joey Yobo who continues to flourish with the captaincy.

It's satisfying watching the naturally reserved Nigerian suddenly start bossing the back four and stepping up into the role.

So despite being pleased with the points buffer which the win represented and, yes, daring to dream about a decent league finish again - it wasn't all smiles.

The shocker of a challenge on Pienaar has potentially left us without one of our most influential players. AGAIN.

Our misfortune in injury terms is astonishing. It's no coincidence that some of the less capable premier league midfield men target the infinitely more talented but less robust players like Arteta and Pienaar.

Let's just hope we're not looking at another lengthy lay-off for Pienaar because he has been our main creative outlet.

His superb industry combined with those dazzling feet has kept us afloat without the best little Spaniard.

Doubts still remain for me about the progress of Marrouane Fellaini. I'm pleased he has largely cut out the pointless bookings (Saturday aside) but his effort levels sometimes still leave a lot to be desired. For a young lad still trying to make his name that's unacceptable.

He looked knackered in the last 10 minutes but perhaps that can be put down to a run of games without much breathing space between them.

I disagree about Fellianin often with fellow blue mates but I'm definitely still willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. His menace in the opposition box can't go unmentioned, even if he could improve his headed finishing.

It's very early days to start judging Johnny Heitinga. He will take time to adjust to the pace of our league and how Everton play. Yes, there a re a few negatives based on these early displays but there are positives too.

The Dutchman is comfortable on the ball, doesn't lack confidence, and has physical presence.

The same criteria on rash judgement applies to Billy, although I think his outings have promised more than the ex Athletico Madrid right back's.

Billy will undoubtedly need to step up physically - his build looks too light for our demanding top flight, but his left foot seems brilliantly wicked. Not a bad assist tally already either!

Let's hope we can continue to build on a decent run of form against Stoke on Saturday. Against a side as big, tough, uncompromising and hard-working as the Potters, a little bit of magic from the Russian's feet may be the deciding factor.