Newcastle United sat in second-place for some time today after victory over Everton.

Ryan Taylor blasted them to victory over the Toffees.

The full-back's stunning 29th-minute strike, which he dedicated to his baby son Henry, was worthy of winning any game, but his side had to fight for dear life to ensure they emerged with the three points as Everton staged a concerted fightback.

Newcastle went ahead with 12 minutes gone when John Heitinga could only turn Danny Simpson's teasing cross into his own net with Leon Best ready to pounce behind him.

Taylor's dipping volley, which went in off the underside of the bar, doubled their advantage, but Everton were giving as good as they got and created enough chances to get themselves back on terms before Jack Rodwell headed home the impressive Royston Drenthe's corner in first-half injury time.