Everton boosted their prospects of European Football as they climbed into fourth place in the Premiership.
David Moyes, however was disappointed over the result. Moyes the main architect behind Everton's revival felt his side should have completed a double: "I am disappointed we did not take all three points." "I thought we were in control and that Middlesbrough did not really breach us until their equalising goal. It was a moment of madness for their goal. We allowed one of their players to run 80 yards." Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren was a relieved man after the game, saying: "Everton dominated the first half. We were not at the races.
"Everton are up there on merit. They are a strong hard-working team and I was pleased to be only a goal down at half time "The second half was a lot better. We showed character to get something out of the game." Former Newcastle United midfielder Steve Watson celebrated his return to the North East by scoring his sixth goal of the season to give Everton a 23rd minute lead following excellent work by Tomasz Radzinski.
McClaren, in a desperate bid to pull the game round brought on three second-half subs, including World Cup winner Juninho.
The fan's idol was given a tremendous welcome on his first appearance a ligament injury. The little fella was rusty yet he had the thrill of scoring an equaliser after 74 minutes.
Juninho was right on the spot to score from close range following a right-wing cross by Massimo Maccarone.
Everton are a form team and could make Europe at the end of the season. Moyes has moulded a strong, hard working team with midfield players prepared to race back and help out the defence.
Wonder boy Wayne Rooney had a glorious chance to be the matchwinning hero in the final minute of stoppage time.
Rooney showed excellent control as he burst through, but then shot wide to the disappointment of the visiting fans behind the goal.