Everton ended the 2011/12 campaign on a high with a 3-1 victory against Newcastle United ON THIS DAY in 2012.
David Moyes’ side stretched their unbeaten Premier League run to nine games and finished seventh in the table.
Steven Pienaar, on-loan from Tottenham Hotspur at the time, opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a long-range shot that clipped Newcastle defender Mike Williamson on its way past Tim Krul.
Nikica Jelavic then continued his terrific form just before the half hour as he beat Krul at the second attempt to take his tally to 11 in just 14 games since joining from Rangers.
John Heitinga wrapped up the points with a third goal in the 65th minute, heading home a cross from Darron Gibson.
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A Tony Hibbert own goal was scant consolation for the Geordies and after the final whistle Tim Cahill was shown a red card for grabbing Yohan Cabaye in an aggressive manner.
There had earlier been a tremendous Goodison reception for Dennis Stracqualursi when he came off the bench for his Everton swansong.
Everton secured UEFA Cup football ON THIS DAY in 2007 when a point at Stamford Bridge was enough to cement a sixth-place finish in the Premier League table.
The Toffees took the lead against Chelsea when Leon Osman superbly picked out James Vaughan who applied the finish at the far post five minutes into the second period.
Chelsea were level soon after but there was controversy surrounding the goal.
Didier Drogba converted a centre from Shaun Wright-Phillips but David Moyes was convinced Paulo Ferreira had fouled Mikel Arteta during the build-up. The Blues boss protested vehemently and was sent to the stands by referee, Mark Halsey.
Everton thought they had won it right at the end when James McFadden found the net from close-range, but the assistant referee flagged James Beattie for offside even though the centre-forward was nowhere near the ball at the time.
Colin Harvey’s Everton warmed up for FA Cup final week with a 3-1 victory against West Ham United at Goodison Park ON THIS DAY in 1989.
Stuart Slater gave the Hammers an early lead, but Kevin Sheedy levelled before half-time.
Dave Watson put Everton ahead in the 52nd minute and then Neville Southall saved a penalty from Kevin Keen before Paul Bracewell secured all three points with a late goal.
