Toffees edge closer to Europe

Everton 3 Portsmouth 0

Everton were left on the very brink of UEFA Cup qualification thanks to two dramatic second-half goals in the space of 60 seconds.

The first came when James Vaughan was brought down by Glen Johnson, and Mikel Arteta converted the penalty.

Joseph Yobo rose to head home a Manuel Fernandes corner, before substitute Gary Naysmith dived to head home the third goal in injury-time.

Vaughan and Yobo were both booked as the exchanges became increasingly heated, while Arteta almost added a third after bursting from halfway and slipping a shot just wide.

Anichebe was withdrawn in the 76th minute, McFadden taking over, before Johnson sent a low shot just wide.

Arnold Mvuemba, Roudolphe Douala and Lomana LuaLua were all sent on by Portsmouth in quick succession to replace Lauren, Kanu and Kranjcar.

Beattie came on for Vaughan with two minutes left, and in injury-time Gary Naysmith took over from Fernandes – with Beattie wrapping up the win soon after when he headed on Arteta’s corner for Naysmith to dive and head home the third goal.