Miguel Layun has given Watford a 1-0 lead at half time in their Premier League clash against Everton at Goodison Park.

© Getty Images

The Hornets took the lead in the 14th minute when the home side failed to clear their lines and Layun latched on to the ball outside the box to drill a left-footed volley past Tim Howard.

Everton rallied and almost found an equaliser as Gareth Barry connected with a header from close range, but Heurelho Gomes made an impressive stop to keep his effort out of the net.

The Toffees upped the ante to get back into the game and Ross Barkley carved out space to drill a strike at goal from distance, but his effort sailed wide of the post.

Barkley caused problems for the visitors again as he charged through the midfield and fired a dipping effort towards the bottom corner, but Gomes made a fine stop to deny the England international.