Everton receive Europe boost as chances revealed in supercomputer prediction after Brentford draw
Everton’s hopes of securing European football have received a boost following their draw against Brentford.
The Blues kept themselves afloat in the race by spoiling the Bees’ day with a late equaliser.
Elsewhere in the Premier League, Fulham were kept at bay after Liverpool beat them 2-0 at Anfield, although the Toffees may have preferred a draw.
Heading into the Merseyside derby, a five-point gap now separates David Moyes’ side from their city rivals.
Nonetheless, the outcomes on Saturday have seemingly not negatively affected Everton’s hopes this season.
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Where are Everton predicted to finish in the Premier League now?
Moyes set his team the challenge of pushing for Europe, and so far, the Everton squad are answering the call.
Of course, three points against Brentford would have been preferred, but the draw has done no harm to chances. In fact, it appears to be the opposite.
| Everton’s last five European runs | Placement |
| Europa League 2017-2018 | Knocked out in Group Stage |
| Europa League 2014-2015 | Knocked out in Round of 16 |
| Europa League 2009-2010 | Knocked out in Round of 32 |
| Uefa Cup 2008-2009 | Knocked out in First Round |
| Uefa Cup 2007-2008 | Knocked out in Round of 16 |
According to the Opta supercomputer, the Toffees are now looking at a seventh-place finish. Previously, Everton were predicted to finish in eight after they beat Chelsea 3-0.
Opta Analyst has given Moyes’ side a 5.01 per cent chance of qualifying for the Champions League and a 10.16 per cent chance of making the Europa League.
As it stands, it looks like predictions for Conference League football are not appearing, but the team finishing in eighth would qualify for that competition.
That is unless the FA Cup winner does not finish in the top seven. Overall, the chances are beginning to improve each week
Stakes are higher than ever in the Merseyside derby
The first Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium has all the makings of a fiery clash.
Both Everton and Liverpool need to win to keep their hopes this season alive. It feels like it has been a while since the two outfits went into a match with chances of European football on the line.
If there is a winner in this tie, it would be a double boost. On one hand, they pick up a much-needed three points, and on the other, they make life harder for their rivals.
Nerves will no doubt be building for everyone involved, and the Toffees must make a statement this match. Liverpool may have beat Fulham, but their form suggests there is no better time to face them.
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