Birmingham City managed to save a point with late free kick from Mauro Zarate. This was a major dent in Evertons hopes for the Premiership 4th spot with results elsewhere not going their way. Everton beggan this game three points behind their Mersyside rivals Liverpool and had the chance to move back level on points as the reds do not play until tomorrow.

The game had equal importance to Birmingham. Birminghams relegation struggle has been over shadowed this week with the club owners corruption charges. Birmingham started just 4 points above the drop zone and third from bottom rivals Bolton.

Everton began liveley and in the first few minutes Ridgewells clearance was played straight into Andy Johnson and back fired, narrowly missing the the Birmingham goal.

The first half remained goaless with both sides fairly equal on both attempts and possession. Early on in the 2nd half Rigewell was presented with a golden opportunity to take the lead with a six yard from goal volley. It was a dreadful miss
and the ball went sailing into the crowd.

On 78 minute Joleon Lescott guided an attempt from Yakubu into the back of the net to break the deadlock and put Everton in front with just 12 minutes remaining.

It was not to be however and only 5 minutes later Mauro Zarate scored a beautiful free kick to slavage a crutial point.

Brimingham are now just 2 points above the drop zone as we enter the business end of the season.

Birmingham City 1 – 1 Everton
78′ [0 - 1] J. Lescott
83′ [1 - 1] M. Zarate