Tim Howard of Everton fouls Ki Sung-Yueng of Sunderland inside the penalty box during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Sunderland at Goodison Park on December 26, 2013 © Getty Images

Fabio Borini had the game's first chance when he was found by a ball from Ki Sung-Yueng, but he was wasteful as his effort flew high and wide of goal.

Kevin Mirallas looked productive as the hosts began to take control of the game and he played in Gareth Barry with a teasing cross, but the midfielder headed over from close range.

Jack Colback looked to test the Everton goal when he set his sights from distance, but his long-range effort was saved in the centre of goal by Tim Howard.

However, Howard was at fault in the 23rd minute as he was sent off having brought down Ki in the box, which then allowed the striker to convert and put the visitors 1-0 ahead at the break.

Lee Cattermole was looking to create after the break as he played in striker Steven Fletcher, but he couldn't finish despite only being six yards out from goal.

Phil Jagielka of Everton in action with Steven Fletcher of Sunderland during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Sunderland at Goodison Park on December 26, 2013 © Getty Images

Romelu Lukaku and Ross Barkley did their best to try to pull Everton back into the game, however both of their efforts from range crept wide of goal.

Lukaku went close again as he was found by Barry outside of the box, though his effort was saved in the centre of goal by Vito Mannone.

Bryan Oviedo then had a go for Everton, but Mannone did well again to stop his shot flying into the top corner.

Sunderland should have killed the game off late on when Emanuele Giaccherini played in Fletcher, but the striker wasted his chance by slicing wide of goal.

Everton thought they had stolen a point as Barkley whipped in a free kick towards goal. However, Mannone pulled off a memorable save to ensure Sunderland notched a vital away win.