Rooney strike moves Everton up EPL table

Cape Town - Wayne Rooney's first-half goal lifted Everton to a 1-0 Premier League win over Newcastle United on Wednesday and continued their revival under manager Sam Allardyce.

Rooney struck in the 27th minute, turning in a rebound from close range to secure Everton's first away league victory in 17 games.

Newcastle pressed hard for an equaliser in the second half and Mohamed Diame went close but Ashley Williams could have doubled Everton's lead, only to be denied by a fine save from Karl Darlow.

Everton consolidated their position in the top half of the table while Newcastle, who had midfielder Jonjo Shelvey sent off in stoppage time, stayed close to the relegation zone following their seventh defeat in eight games.