Wayne Rooney made his first appearance in Everton colours for 11 years as the Toffees slipped to a 2-1 defeat to Villarreal in Duncan Ferguson's testimonial this afternoon.
© Getty Images
Leo Baptistao tried his luck from range in the opening minutes, but his strike failed to test the keeper.
Midway through the first half Everton created their first chance on goal when Leon Osman rose to meet a corner, before directing the ball wide of the post.
However, it was the visitors who broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when Baptistao flicked a corner into the path of Gerard Moreno, who guided the ball in from close range.
© Getty Images
Villarreal doubled their lead just past the hour mark when Matias Nahuel raced through on goal and slotted an effort past Tim Howard.
Gerard almost grabbed a third goal for the visitors moments later, but his attempt was kept out by Howard, before Steven Naismith lashed wide for the Toffees.
Rooney and Ferguson were then brought on for the hosts, but it was Tyias Browning who scored a consolation in the closing stages with a powerful header from a corner.
Alex Meyers
