Half-Time Report: Leon Osman strike puts Everton ahead

Leon Osman has given Everton a 1-0 lead over Manchester City at half time at Goodison Park this afternoon.

© PA Photos

Everton found the back of the net in the 12th minute when Kevin Mirallas smashed the ball past Joe Hart, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

After a slow start from the champions, Jan Mucha was called into action in the home side's goal, after David Silva struck the ball from the edge of the penalty area.

© PA Photos

Osman broke the deadlock with just over half-an-hour gone, curling a shot in from 25 yards out, leaving Hart rooted to the spot.

The Toffees almost added a second towards the end of the opening period, as Darron Gibson picked out Victor Anichebe in the penalty area, but the Nigerian's finish was just high of the crossbar.

Referee Lee Probert was kept busy in the opening 45 minutes, with Steven Pienaar, Marouane Fellaini, Edin Dzeko, Silva and Aleksandar Kolarov all receiving yellow cards in the first half.