Half-Time Report: Newcastle United level with Everton

Newcastle United and Everton have finished the first half 1-1 in tonight's Premier League contest at St James' Park.

It took the home side just 65 seconds to take the lead as Papiss Cisse headed over Tim Howard following Tim Krul's long punt upfield.

© PA Photos

However, Everton recovered well and they could have equalised soon after through a Leighton Baines free kick.

The full-back's effort looked destined for the top corner, but Krul managed to claw the ball away from goal.

Newcastle came within inches of extending their lead with 30 minutes played when James Perch rose highest to head a free kick onto the post, while Steven Pienaar saw his shot smothered by Krul at the other end as both sides attacked freely.

The hosts were appealing for a penalty at the end of the half as Phil Neville challenged Shola Ameobi in the box. The Everton captain just about got the ball as the Magpies' protests were waved away.

If Krul kept out a Baines free kick earlier in the half, the Dutchman had no chance with the visitors' equaliser in the 43rd minute.

Baines hammered the ball into the Newcastle goal with an audacious strike from 30 yards to get his team back on terms going into the second half.