Demba Ba netted a brace off the bench as Newcastle United twice came from behind to draw 2-2 with Everton in an incident-packed match at Goodison Park tonight.
Full-back Leighton Baines gave the Toffees the lead fifteen minutes into a first period that was totally dominated by the hosts.
South African midfielder Steven Pienaar blazed over from close range early on, but atoned by beautifully providing the England international for his second goal in 10 days moments later.
After the pair combined down the left, Pienaar directed a smart back heel into the path of Baines, who fired in low past Steve Harper.
Shortly afterwards, Baines was on hand to deny Newcastle an equaliser when he cleared Vurnon Anita's shot off the line.
Summer-signing Kevin Mirallas had a hat-trick of efforts as Everton looked to extend their lead, while Pienaar was guilty of missing a great opportunity with the break approaching.
Ba's half-time introduction changed the game as he levelled the scores six minutes into the second period, striking left-footed past Tim Howard following Yohan Cabaye's through pass.
Everton's frustration at not taking their first-half chances was worsened when they were twice denied what appeared to be perfectly good goals.
Firstly, Marouane Fellaini was adjudged offside after poking home from Pienaar's pass, while the assistant referee ruled that Victor Anichebe's header had not crossed the line.
Anichebe did get on the scoresheet when his superb turn and shot gave Everton a deserved lead with just minutes remaining.
However, Ba was to have the final say when he latched on to a Shola Ameobi flick before prodding the ball under Howard for his third of the season.
Joe Fish
