Moyes reveals frustration

Everton boss admits concern over injuries

By Laura Slatcher   Last updated: 12th April 2008

David Moyes Everton

Moyes: Injuries to blame

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Everton manager David Moyes was frustrated after his side threw away the lead to draw 1-1 with Birmingham on Saturday.

Defender Joleon Lescott put Everton ahead before Birmingham's Mauro Zarate sent home a free-kick five minutes later.

Moyes lay some of the blame on the injuries his side have suffered at a time in the season when points are crucial in their pursuit of a European spot.

Four of Everton's first team are currently injured which meant Moyes was forced to start Steven Pienaar, who has not trained for two weeks.

Fighting for points

"I think after being 1-0 up it feels like two points lost," said Moyes. "It was a hard place to come and Birmingham are fighting for points just like we are.

"I don't think any teams in the Premier League are not tough competition.

"It's an important time of the year and you want your players fresh and ready to go into it.

"Pienaar hadn't trained for two weeks and we had to bring him back. We didn't have enough available.

"I'll speak to the board because we can't let it happen again."

Well executed

Zarate's free-kick was well placed past Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard and Moyes concedes it was an excellent finish despite it denting their European chances.

"I think now and again you have to hold your hands up and say it was an excellent finish," he added.

"It was a very well executed free kick. A very good goal got them back in the game. But I think we're still in there and we certainly won't give up on it.

"Would I have taken this position at the beginning of the season? Yes, I would have."