Toffees out of Euro hunt

Everton's hopes of a Europa League slot ended amid controversy at the Britannia Stadium as they drew 0-0 with Stoke.

Needing a victory to keep their hopes alive, the Toffees found the net in the 72nd minute through Phil Jagielka following a corner from Mikel Arteta, only for referee Howard Webb to ruled out the defender's effort.

Manager David Moyes was left baffled at the decision, which led him questioning the fourth official as play resumed.

Everton's Victor Anichebe tested Asmir Begovic, on his full debut, with a shot from distance before Ricardo Fuller failed to get enough power on his flick and Tim Howard made the save.

Stoke supporters screamed for a penalty in the 30th minute when Glenn Whelan went to ground following an aerial collision with Arteta but Webb waved play on.

Everton responded and Phil Neville released Victor Anichebe three minutes later, only for the striker to drag his effort wide of the post.

Everton then surged forward and Leighton Baines saw his powerful shot beaten away by Begovic after he linked up with Arteta.

Stoke should have taken the lead in the 48th minute but Rory Delap was guilty of an astonishing miss. Mamady Sidibe started the move by picking out Matthew Etherington on the left and he quickly played the ball towards the back post.

Delap had timed his run perfectly but with only Howard to beat somehow managed to steer his effort the wrong side of the post.

Then came that controversial moment for Everton and Stoke responded when Whelan set up Fuller 20 yards out but he sent his shot high over the bar.