Everton 2 Wolverhampton Wanderers 0

Last updated : 22 November 2003 By Footymad Previewer

Everton pulled themselves clear of the relegation zone with a comfortable 2-0 victory over a poor Wolves side The home side were easy winners over Dave Jones' outfit's lack of inspiration meant they never came close to coming back from the Blues' early two goals.

Everton took the lead in the 16th minute and Tomasz Radzinski carved out the chance from nothing. The Canadian striker took the ball just inside the Wolves half, took a man on and fired in a stunning shot from 35 yards.

David Moyes' team were on top all the way, dominating possession with a style that belied their position in the bottom three and three minutes after going in front, the Blues doubled their lead after a superbly crafted effort.

England star Wayne Rooney beat a defender on the right-hand touchline to give himself space before launching a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty box.

Irish international Kevin Kilbane easily rose above his marker to head home his first Everton goal.

With two goals to spare, the troubled Blues started to relax. After four league games without a win and just one goal in that time they were desperate for the points, but still looked comfortable on the ball.

And they continued to pile on the pressure going forward time and time again.

Tobias Linderoth played a perfect throughball to Radzinski to give him a chance to double his tally, but he took one touch too many and his shot was easily saved.

And in the 24th minute Linderoth had a great chance himself, but his 20-yard effort was easy for Michael Oakes.

In the second half Everton kept hold of the ball easily, never allowing the visitors a glimmer of a chance but even when the visitors had the ball in Everton's half, their team of battling veterans lack the vision to take advantage.

The Premiership new boys were more interested in conceding no more goals than chasing valuable points they need and Everton were able to control the game and secure three points.