Premier League - Barkley solo effort inspires Everton victory

Everton's English midfielder Ross Barkley (2-R) celebrates scoring the opening goal (AFP)

Premier League, St James’ Park – Newcastle 0 Everton 3 (Barkley 22 Lukaku 52 Osman 87)

A magnificent solo effort from Ross Barkley inspired Everton to a 3-0 victory over Newcastle in a pulsating clash as the Toffees’ boosted their Champions League hopes.

Newcastle spurned four chances in a frantic opening 180 seconds as the visitors made a succession of goal-saving blocks to keep the score level.

Eventually, Everton settled and took the lead in stunning fashion when Ross Barkley ghosted forward from inside his own half, shrugged off numerous challenges and rifled into the top corner.

Groans emanated from around St James’ Park as the hosts struggled to contain Everton’s threat, and the home fans’ frustration was heightened when Romelu Lukaku tucked home Gerard Deulofeu’s low cross early in the second-half.

The hosts rallied and would have pulled a goal back but for a glaring miss from Vurnon Anita after Hatem Ben Arfa had bewitched the Everton defence with a mazy run down the left flank.

And Roberto Martinez's side punished their opponent’s profligacy when Leon Osman capped a fine counter-attacking move to wrap up the points and lift Everton to within six points of fourth-placed Arsenal, who have played a game more.

TALKING POINT
Ross Barkley for England? The 20-year-old has suffered a slight dip in form since his electric start to the season. But his individual antics against Newcastle served as a reminder that he can play an important role if selected in Roy Hodgson’s squad for the 2014 World Cup.

MAN OF THE MATCH
Gerard Deulofeu (Everton): Tore Paul Dummett (and the rest of the Newcastle ensemble) apart. The kid has a very bright future.

PLAYER RATINGS
Newcastle: Krul 6, Yanga-Mbiwa 5, Williamson 6, Coloccini 5, Dummett 5, Sissoko 5, Anita 5, Tiote 6, Gouffran 5, de Jong 5, Cisse 6. Subs: Ben Arfa 7, Marveaux 6, Shola Ameobi 6
Everton: Howard 6, Baines 6, Distin 6, Stones 7, Coleman 6, Barry 7, McCarthy 6, Deulofeu 8, Barkley 7, Osman 7, Lukaku 7. Subs: Naismith 6.
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