Everton remain firmly in the bottom three after slipping to a 4-1 defeat against Newcastle United.
Goals from Callum Wilson (2), Joelinton and Jacob Murphy settled the scores at Goodison Park as the Blues passed up another huge opportunity to move away from danger. Indeed, it was a heavy reverse that means they are now two points from safety with five matches to play.
An intense start from Everton gave them something to build on with Idrissa Gueye and former Burnley man Dwight McNeil taking aim in the opening stages. However, they were dealt a hammer blow after 28 minutes when England striker Wilson reacted quickest to prod home the opener.
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It came following an initial strike from Joelinton was parried into the danger zone. Everton pushed for a way back into the game and thought they had found a leveller shortly before half-time as Dominic Calvert-Lewin strayed offside - marginally - before lifting over Nick Pope and into the net.
Newcastle were dealt a reprieve in that respect in their quest for Champions League qualification. Joelinton, Wilson and Murphy added further goals, though, as McNeill netted a consolation for second bottom Everton with things unravelling for them markedly upon the restart.
After watching Nottingham Forest pick up all three points against surprise package Brighton on Wednesday night, Everton had slipped into the bottom three before kick-off against Newcastle - and that increased their need for a positive result at Goodison Park. But they were unable to deliver.
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With five matches remaining this season, Everton continue their scrap against Premier League relegation on Bank Holiday Monday when taking on fellow strugglers Leicester City (8pm). After that comes further games against Brighton, Manchester City, Wolves and Bournemouth.
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