The main focus was on testimonial boy Stevie Hammell, though he seemed happy enough to share his stage with James McFadden, and despite the occasional mistake he had a solid game on his big day. Everton settled quicker and had the better of the opening exchanges without really making too many clear chances. Our defence - with Ramsden and Cummins in the middle - scrambled well to block when required.
This pair were the centre of attention against Everton
We gradually came into things with Higdon shooting wide from the edge of the box and a powerful hit from Law being palmed away by Howard after a lovely move. Just when we seemed to have established parity, Everton took the lead when a deep cross was headed in at the back post by Shane Duffy with Randolph perhaps caught unsure of whether to stay on his line or collect the ball.
After the break we improved and though we had some scares, we were probably the better team. A wonderful half-volley from Law flew into the top corner before another great move saw Hateley cross for Higdon who again fired a yard wide of the post. Cummins cleared from the line when a goal looked certain for Everton before Ojamaa poked weakly at Howard with almost the final kick of the game.
We had several positives to take from this game with Law, Ojamaa, Humphrey and Murphy all looking good going forward while our makeshift defence was surprisingly solid. McFadden had some nice flashes in what was a cameo appearance showered in man-love but he is surely still more than a level above us.
Our focus now turns to Hamilton on Tuesday and Panathinaikos at Fir Park, now just a little over one week away.