Everton welcomed Middlesbrough to Goodison Park on Saturday as the Toffees came from behind to secure a comfortable 3-1 victory.

Boro got off to a good start against the home side as Daniel Ayala almost scored with a flicked header in the 6th minute of action.

After a listless spell from both sides, Ross Barkley tested Victor Valdes with an effort from range before Kevin Mirallas forced a second save with 20-minutes gone. Just a minute later Maarten Stekelenburg but Boro one goal to the good as he fumbled a cross into his own net after contesting a challenge with Alvaro Negredo.

Everton did not have to wait too long for an equaliser as Gareth Barry grabbed a rare goal with a calm finish in the 24th minute following a rebound. Everton then took the lead through Seamus Coleman as he converted a fine solo goal.

Romelu Lukaku then put the Toffees 3-1 up on the stroke of half-time as he got the slightest of touches to a Yannick Bolasie effort.

Everton began the second period well and slowly began to exert complete control over the game despite not managing to stitch together a decisive chance.

With neither side truly threatening the game all but petered out completely with both sides seemingly satisfied to accept the result.

At the final whistle the score remained 3-1 Everton.

Photo: Premier League Website