Everton manager David Moyes believes the events of the last few days could spark off a strong finish to the season from the Toffees.
Victory over Barclays Premier League leaders Manchester City was accompanied by the signing of Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic for £5.5million and the return of midfielder Steven Pienaar, on loan, from Tottenham.
Moyes is convinced his activity in the transfer market has raised spirits at Goodison Park after much speculation about the state of the club's finances and indifferent results - including defeats to Bolton and Spurs and draws with Aston Villa and Blackburn.
"It is long time since I have been able to talk positively," said the Scot. "Nearly every question I've had has been of a negative nature about what is happening off the pitch or results. But the players certainly gave the fans something to shout about in midweek and the performance against Manchester City was great - we've not had many days like that recently.
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What a difference it makes if you win one which maybe you are not expected to and you play above your station and the players respond, it gives everyone a lift.
"Hopefully the last few days shows, with a little bit of cash, we can try to make something work and give the supporters something to be excited about. It (signing players) definitely gives everyone a lift but if we hadn't brought anyone in and beaten Manchester City it would still have given everyone a lift."