Half-Time Report: Steven Naismith gives Everton lead against Norwich City

Everton have taken a narrow lead against Norwich in the opening half at Goodison Park this afternoon.

The Toffees were into their stride straight away and came close to grabbing an early goal when Leon Osman collected on the edge of the area and curled a left-footed shot just wide.

© PA Photos

Everton did take the lead in the 12th minute when Bryan Oviedo, who replaced the suspended Marouane Fellaini in the starting lineup, beat his man down the left and squared for Steven Naismith to smash home.

It was almost two to the home side when Leighton Baines saw his shot on the overlap kept out by John Ruddy and Osman could only hit his rebound into the turf and over.

Norwich struggled to test Tim Howard but came closest when Sebastian Bassong headed wide with a free header.