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Beattie downs Boro

06/11/2005

Everton have secured a second consecutive Premiership victory with a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough at Goodison Park.

James Beattie scored the game's only goal on 16 minutes, lifting Everton out of the relegation zone.

The former Southampton striker flicked Andy van der Meyde's cross past Mark Schwarzer, with his head, giving the Toffees the lead against the run of play.

Boro dominated proceedings up until the goal and had chances to take the lead through Yakubu Aiyegbeni and the impressive Gaizka Mendieta.

The goal galvanised the home side, yet Yakubu squandered a great chance to equalise for Boro.

The Nigerian striker was expertly thwarted by Nigel Martyn when through on goal.

David Moyes' side created the better of the other first half openings, and Beattie put a free header over the bar, while the visitors largely restricted in front of goal.

Everton continued to defend stoutly in the second period and had opportunities to extend their lead.

Duncan Ferguson headed straight at Mark Schwarzer off Mikel Arteta's cross and Beattie should have secured the three points ten minutes from time.

However, he rattled the crossbar with a volley when he looked certain to score.

Franck Queudrue came close to equalising in the final minute of normal time, yet his free header came back off the crossbar, ensuring Beattie did not rue his earlier miss.

The win was Everton's first at Goodison Park this season and ends Boro's run of three straight victories.

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