The Sport Matrix: Friday 7 November 2014

Impressive Everton ease past Lille

Everton all but guaranteed their place in the last 32 of the Europa League last night after beating Lille 3-0 at Goodison Park. Leon Osman, Phil Jagielka and Steven Naismith were all on target for Roberto Martinez’s side, who now just need a point from the last two group matches. Tottenham are also on the brink of qualification after holding off a late comeback from Asteras Tripolis to win 2-1 in Greece.

Berahino rewarded with England call

Saido Berahino has been called up to the England squad for the first time. The 21-year-old has scored seven Premier League goals for West Bromwich this season, and has been rewarded by Roy Hodgson with a place in the squad to face Slovenia and Scotland. “The reasons are quite obvious – he’s done so well,” Hodgson said.

Rokoduguni under orders for debut

England have named Semesa Rokoduguni on the right wing for Saturday’s opening autumn international against New Zealand at Twickenham. The uncapped Rokoduguni, a serving soldier in the British Army, has been in outstanding form for Bath this season. Born in Fiji, the 27-year-old will go up against the All Blacks’ Julian Savea.

Referee’s laughter no joke for Griffiths as Celtic held by Astra

Leigh Griffiths claims Ukrainian referee Serhiy Boiko laughed at him after disallowing his “goal” in the 1-1 Europa League draw against Astra Giurgiu in Romania.

The Group D fixture appeared to be in doubt through fog but when it was eventually given the go-ahead midfielder Stefan Johansen’s powerful 32nd-minute strike gave the visitors the lead – but that was cancelled out in the 79th minute by Astra substitute William Amorim.

Substitute Griffiths had the ball in the net with minutes remaining, only to see it ruled off for an infringement,

“The ref didn’t even blow straight away, he let me go away and celebrate and then brought it back and started laughing about it,” Griffiths said.

Reed apologises but still faces fine

Ryder Cup star Patrick Reed has apologised for an “unacceptable” foul-mouthed outburst on the opening day of the WGC-HSBC Champions Event in Shanghai, but is still set to be punished by the PGA Tour. The American faces a fine after being caught on camera swearing at himself, and also using language which could be interpreted as homophobic.