Moore the merrier as Everton beat Derby

Joe-Max Moore's previous two goals had sent the United States to the World Cup Finals. His latest should make sure he goes with them.

The Everton striker seemed assured of a place next summer after the 2-1 qualifying win over Trinidad and Tobago, but has felt less secure the more he has been overlooked at club level.

He has still to start a Premiership match this season, despite injuries to Duncan Ferguson and Kevin Campbell, but should not have to wait much longer after going on at the start of the second half and giving Everton something to show for their constant pressure.

A headed goal in the 76th minute - Everton's 25th attempt on goal - should persuade manager Walter Smith to ditch his theory that Moore andTomasz Radzinski are too alike to play together. Moore, 30, said:'With the World Cup coming up, it is important for me to be playing regularly and scoring goals. It has been frustrating not being more involved this season. 'Hopefully, getting on for 45 minutes and scoring is a sign that things may be changing. Steve Watson has done well, but it is so frustrating, as a striker, to be on the sidelines watching a defender taking your place in attack.' Moore's first Everton goal for 18 months was no more than his side deserved. No more than Derby deserved, either, for a lacklustre display that did little to suggest they can escape the bottom three. Manager ColinTodd also had to contend with rumours that Fabrizio Ravanelli's absence was due to a bust-up at the hotel.

Todd said: 'That is absolute nonsense. He turned an ankle in training and could hardly put any weight on it. Our main problem is that we are not keeping possession well enough, and that is something we are going to have to address urgently.'