Everton matchwinner Phil Jagielka admitted their victory over Reading on Saturday was "a real battle".
"It was a real battle, a hard game," said the former Sheffield United defender. "They have struggled recently so we knew they would give it everything, particularly with them without an away win so far this season in the league.
"I was sure I was onside (for the goal). I was aware of a lot of bodies all around me and I was just trying to get it on target. As long as it went in I didn't really care.
"It was a scruffy game, and the turning point was James Vaughan coming on. He has such great enthusiasm, he was fantastic and lit the place up."
He added: "We are not bothered about other results, we can't do much to influence them. Obviously it is good when sides around us lose, but that is not happening so we have to keep going.
"We must concentrate on keeping our momentum going. The longer that happens, the closer we will get to our goal.
"The gaffer gave us a kick up the bum at half-time, we needed it and we went out after the break determined to get the points.
"It's an important week now ahead of us, we have the UEFA Cup tie to face and we must keep our form going in Europe too. This is becoming a very good season so we do not intend to throw it all away now we are so close to our objectives."
