Everton started the game brightly and could have taken the lead when Leighton Baines whipped a cross into the box, but Romelu Lukaku was unable to make contact with a header from close range.

Everton's South African midfielder Steven Pienaar vies for the ball during the English Premier League football match between Crystal Palace and Everton at Selhurst Park in south London on November 9, 2013 © Getty Images

Julian Speroni had to be alert to keep the score level in the 20th minute when Kevin Mirallas tested the Palace goalkeeper with a firm strike after cutting in from the left wing.

Kagisho Dikgacoi had a great chance to put the hosts ahead after 34 minutes but he miscued his header after finding space in the box.

Tim Howard tipped a Jerome Thomas strike past the post and Marouane Chamakh headed wide from close range a few moments later as Palace started to threaten before the break.

Manager Roberto Martinez of Everton looks on during the Barclays Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Everton at Selhurst Park on November 9, 2013 © Getty Images

Thomas had another opportunity to break the deadlock after the interval when he broke away from the Everton defence, but his chipped effort drifted wide of the target.

Both teams continued to search for the winning goal in the closing stages, with Phil Jagielka coming close to putting his side ahead when he headed against the crossbar.

Everton finished the game strongly but Palace held firm to frustrate their opponents and claim a point.