Everton are safe from relegation but still fighting a key battle

EVERTON are officially safe from relegation - but are still in a battle that could shape the opening weeks of the c summer.

- By JOE THOMAS

Ipswich Town's failure to beat Arsenal on Sunday made the Blues’ survival a certainty - a milestone manager David Moyes had attached significance to despite a surge in form that removed any real jeopardy two months ago.

Events at Portman Road have not ended Everton's season, however.

In fact, the results of the weekend have set up an important fight for millions of pounds in merit payments.

Moyes' side sit at the top of what is now a five-club mini-league between 13th and 17th in the Premier League table. Just two points separate Everton from West Ham United, the team hovering just above the relegation zone.

Fifteen points clear with five games to go, the Ham-mers are all-but safe - it would take a remarkable turn of events for Ipswich to hunt them down.

But they are failing to play with the freedom afforded by their position and were unable to hold onto a lead against Championship-condemned Southampton on Saturday.