Cahill sends Toffees through

Tim Cahill made sure Everton's European adventure will continue into the new year with a late winner in their UEFA Cup Group A clash with Zenit St Petersburg at Goodison Park.

But Everton made heavy weather of securing the result that sees them qualify for the last 32 of the competition.

Zenit, the Russian champions, were reduced to 10 men for the last hour when Nicolas Lombaerts was sent off for an unlucky handling decision that also cost his side a penalty.

Mikel Arteta blazed the spot-kick over the bar, however, with Everton's third penalty miss in the competition this season. That made life so much harder for Everton, who struggled to get their noses in front.

But the fact that AZ Alkmaar lost at Nurnberg means Everton have also won the group and will avoid the rejects from the Champions League when the draw is made for the next stage.

Everton finally got their goal after 84 minutes.

Arteta's corner dropped into a packed box and Lescott's shot was saved by Malafeev on the line, only for Cahill to force the ball into the roof of the net.