Fulham 0-0 Everton: Sean Dyche's side fall into relegation zone

On an evening when Sean Dyche celebrated a year in the job, Everton delivered a performance that typified their manager.

They were given an almighty test by Marco Silva's side, who threw everything they could at them.

But, not for the first time this season, Everton's players stood strong in the face of adversity at the start of a week which could prove to be crucial for the club's future.

The three-day appeal hearing against their 10-point deduction begins on Wednesday. Whatever the outcome - which we won't know until mid-February - Everton's fans can sleep a little easier in the knowledge this group of players will scrap not just for every point but every kick in the meantime.

'It was a ding dong of a game. If there was ever an exciting nil-nil, this was it,' said Dyche, who side slipped into the relegation zone despite their point.

'The reality is ever since I walked into the building there has been a lot of work to be done. We've got to win games and I never lose sight of that, regardless of all the noise and the challenges.'

Missed chances were the story of a night which saw 45 shots on goal but neither side find a breakthrough.

There was plenty of drama, though, not least when Antonee Robinson looked to have handled the ball after James Tarkowski's deflected shot struck the bar.

The Everton fans erupted in celebration. Some were convinced the ball had crossed the line. Others pleaded for a penalty after Robinson's apparent infringement.

Referee Thomas Bramall rubbished both claims as Fulham survived and Everton's wait for their first spot-kick of the season continued.

Then came the first of two miss of the season contenders from the night as Raul Jimenez somehow sliced his effort horribly wide from five yards out when the