Everton have been unable to break down a resolute West Bromwich Albion in a goalless first half in their Premier League match this evening.
The hosts made a strong start to the match with Kevin Mirallas and Leighton Baines testing out Ben Foster in the opening minutes.
Mirallas tried his luck again midway through the first half with a free kick towards the top corner that was held by the keeper.
Everton were struggling to create any clear-cut chances, but two minutes before the break they were awarded a penalty after a handball by Joleon Lescott.
It was Mirallas who stepped up to take the spot kick, but the Belgian placed his strike against the outside of the post, meaning that the two teams went into the break on level terms.