MATCH REPORT: EVERTON 3-0 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY

Photo credit: Molly Darlington (Action Images/Reuters)

Everton cruised to a 3-0 win over Championship side Sheffield Wednesday which sees them into the fifth round of the FA Cup.

The in-form Premier League outfit put in a highly professional display and an inspired performance from James Rodriguez in particular meant Carlo Ancelotti’s men were never going to be the victim of an upset.

The Colombian was at the heart of everything his side did and almost got an assist as early as 12 minutes when his inch perfect through ball was dispatched by Richarlison, only for the Brazilian to be ruled offside.

But the Toffees were undeterred and took the lead right before the half hour mark when Dominic Calvert-Lewin, back from injury, converted Andre Gomes’ drilled cross from close range to end his goal drought against the arch-rivals of his former employers.

The hosts had plenty of opportunities to extend their lead in the first half but had to wait until the 59^th minute when Rodriguez’s sublime corner was glanced home by Richarlison.

Just three minutes later Yerry Mina thumped another of his compatriot’s teasing corners and the contest was settled.

History was created with five minutes of the 90 remaining when Ancelotti brought on Thierry Small who became the youngest senior appearance maker in Everton’s history at 16 years and 176 days, edging out Jose Baxter’s record set in 2008 by 15 days.

This capped off on all round positive day for the Blues who wait to know their opponents in the fifth round when Wycombe Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur square off tomorrow night.

Meanwhile the Owls will hope this defeat won’t affect their impressive league form which has seen them win four of the last five as they look to hoist themselves out of the relegation places.