Everton 1
Jagielka 62
Reading 0
Everton 1 Reading 0 February 09 2008
Phil Jagielka's first league goal for Everton ensured that the Toffees kept a firm grip on fourth spot after a 1-0 home win over Reading.
The opening period produced a number of misplaced passes as both sides struggled to keep possession or create any clear-cut openings.
Tim Cahill, who had been in Australia on international duty for much of the week, wasted the best chance of the half when he hooked wide after excellent work from the impressive Leon Osman.
The game finally sparked into life when the hosts broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute when Osman's cross found Jagielka who looped a header over Marcus Hahnemann.
The visitors pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages but the Merseysiders' defence held firm as they keep up their push for Champions League football.