Romelu Lukaku's goal has given Everton a 1-0 lead against Crystal Palace going into the break of their Premier League match, although Alan Pardew's side have had the better of proceedings at Selhurst Park this afternoon.
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Romelu Lukaku gave Everton the perfect start just two minutes into the match with a goal from close range, after Steven Naismith was able to get in behind the Palace backline and fire across goal.
The exciting start continued as Palace's Dwight Gayle latched onto a hopeful ball forward before flicking over the advancing Joel, but Phil Jagielka raced back and cleared off the line.
Marouane Chamakh was the next to come close for Palace, as he took down the ball on the edge of the box. He eventually worked some space and got a shot away, which was well blocked by John Stones.
The striker had to go off through injury later on, however, meaning that Jordan Mutch was brought on for his Palace debut.
Jason Puncheon picked up the ball 40 yards from goal before pushing forward and firing towards goal, but Joel was equal to the impressive drive and saved down low to keep his side in front before half time.
Benjamin Topliss
