Paulo Ferreira’s low cross fizzed into the box, Gallas’ deflection from close range crashed off the crossbar and Gudjohnsen completed a simple tap in.

Everton played for most of the match with 10 men after James Beattie was sent off but still finished the game attacking the leaders, who defended in depth to hang onto their ninth 1-0 league victory of the season.

The game hinged on Beattie’s dismissal for headbutting William Gallas, which left his side with an uphill task which became insurmountable.