Arteta inspires Everton victory

Mikel Arteta led Everton to a crucial 2-0 over Middlesbrough.

As well as having a hand in goals from free-scoring defender Joleon Lescott and on-loan Steven Pienaar, the Spanish midfielder was outstanding throughout on his comeback from injury.

The visitors lacked such a figure, but of more concern would have been their impotence in attack, with Mido and Lee Dong-Gook failing to impress.

Without a home win since the opening-day victory against Wigan, Everton were looking to bounce back from two straight league defeats.

Boro were also struggling for form, having not won in their last three in all competitions.

The win moved Everton up to fifth in the table.

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