Youssouf Mulumbu´s 10th-minute strike condemns 10-man Everton to a disappointing defeat at the Hawthornes.
Everton went into the fixture knowing a win would have sealed a ‘magnificent 7th’ respectable seventh position, but Malbumu’s strike from close range after some intelligent play by the irrepressible Peter Odemwingie proved the decisive goal in securing a double over Everton, having won 4-1 at Goodison Park in November.
Peter Odemwingie took full advantage of Slvain Distin misjudging Chris Brunt’ lofted pass, before wrong-footing Phil Jagielka to set up Mulumbu’s goal on ten minutes.
Leon Osman, Johnny Heitinga and Victor Anichebe all went close for Everton in a relentless pursuit to draw level as West Brom looked to avert an unwanted Premier League record of conceding in eighteen successive games.
In-form Leon Osman had an headed effort well saved by Scott Carson, Heitinga headed wide with the goal at his mercy after a good cross from Seamus Coleman and Anichebe saw a goalbound effort saved by Carsons outstretched foot.
With Everton pressing forward – West Brom too had chances to extend their lead. Tim Howard saved well from a Chris Brunt free-kick, and later, produced a good save from a close-range header from Odemwingie – with Tony Hibbert also needing to be on hand to clear off the line.
Substitute Diniyar Bilyaletdinov saw a harsh straight Red card late on for a challenge on Morrison, as the match fizzled out to a disappointing 1-0 defeat.