Demarai Gray’s ferocious second-half strike helped Everton hold Manchester City to a 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium.
The precious point ended the Toffees’ run of nine consecutive defeats in Premier League meetings with the Citizens.
Having lost six of their last eight league games prior to a difficult meeting against the Premier League champions, Everton knew they had their work cut out to claim a positive result.
However, the Norway international only had to wait until the 24th minute for his mandatory goal, sweeping the ball home with his right foot after being neatly teed up by Riyad Mahrez.
Although the hosts took their foot off the gas following Haaland’s 21st league goal of the season, they went agonisingly close to doubling their advantage moments before HT.
De Bruyne’s inch-perfect free-kick was powerfully headed onto the post by former Everton defender John Stones, ensuring City kept their slender one-goal lead at the break.
The hosts were ultimately unable to take advantage of over 11 minutes of additional time, leaving them with one point from their last two home league games.
While City present Arsenal with the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table, Everton will hope the point will kickstart their bid to move away from the relegation zone.
