Everton have taken a comfortable 3-0 lead into half time of their Premier League match against Newcastle United.

Romelu Lukaku scored a brace on his home debut for the Toffees, finding the net either side of a Ross Barkley strike to put Everton in complete control of the contest at the halfway stage.

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The hosts took the lead after just five minutes when Lukaku nodded the ball down to Kevin Mirallas, who beat Davide Santon before playing it back to his compatriot, who hit a first-time effort past Tim Krul.

James McCarthy came close to doubling the lead in the 18th minute when he dispossessed Chieck Tiote in the final third, but Krul was equal to his effort.

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It was 2-0 just seven minutes later, however, as Lukaku turned provider with a fine pass to Barkley, who coolly slotted home.

Lukaku was able to double his personal tally shortly before the break, taking advantage of a goalkeeping error after a long Tim Howard kick to roll the ball into an empty net.