Tottenham Hotspur have dominated the first-half proceedings at Goodison Park, but they go in at the break level with Everton at 0-0.
As early as the second minute, Sandro's speculative 25-yard strike forced Tim Howard into a low save at full stretch.
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Three minutes later, Aaron Lennon – playing in an unfamiliar left-wing role – picked out an unmarked Roberto Soldado in the penalty area, but the Spaniard sent his header well wide of the far post.
Spurs continued to force Everton inside their own half, with Andros Townsend seeing his drive deflected over the bar and Kyle Walker sending a fierce free kick straight at Howard.
A Seamus Coleman slip allowed Townsend a chance to wriggle free down the right flank and the winger went down under a challenge by the right back, but the referee, Kevin Friend, waved play on.
Everton's first attempt at goal came in the 27th minute when Leon Osman was allowed time and space to run at the Spurs defence, but the midfielder's effort flew harmlessly over the bar.
On the stroke of half time, Lewis Holtby worked the ball to Soldado on the edge on the box, but Howard watched his shot sail over the bar.
Kristian Johnson
