Everton's bid for survival under Sam Allardyce looked sure to continue at Goodison Park against Premier League basement club Swansea, who prior to Monday's kick-off, had lost 18 league games away from home since the start of last season.
A staggering statistic that was by no means a good omen for Paul Clement's side. But you have to play games to win them and that is exactly what the Welsh side did as the game got underway. A scrappy start at both ends finally saw the visitors settle on the ball, enjoying the best chances as they seemed more enthused to go out and win it.
Wilfried Bony trudged off with an injury after three minutes, forcing Clement to make his first change early on, introducing Tammy Abraham. An the young striker had a fine impact on Swansea's game, battling well with Everton's central defenders and opening up space for the wider players.
The Toffees attempted to get a bit of a foothold in the game but, after a couple of warning signs from Narsingh and Carroll, Goodison Park was muted as Swansea took a deserved lead. Slack marking from the hosts allowed Fer to tap in a corner at the back post, thus punishing Everton's lacklustre start.
Allardyce's men had barely had an opening with Lennon slicing an effort wide, and now they had to come back from behind. Swansea dealt comfortably with the few efforts from the hosts to drive forward, but it was unfortunate for the visitors as a clumsy challenge from Roque Mesa saw Aaron Lennon go down in the box. Jonathan Moss did not hesitate as he pointed to the spot.
Despite a dismal display in the first period, the Toffees were handed a lifeline at the stroke of half-time, and captain Wayne Rooney appeared to waste it as Fabianski palmed his spot kick onto the post. However, Calvert-Lewin was first to the rebound and Everton somehow managed to go in level at the break.
It was a huge setback for Clement's men who never quite recovered. They were not able to offer as much in the second half with the hosts gradually claiming control of the fixture.
And just when they needed him, the figure of Gylifi Sigurdsson emerged. The £45million signing cut in from the left flank to fire at Fabianski the first time, and the second chance he had he made sure not to miss against his former club. He stepped inside again and sent a curling effort flying into the top corner before showing respect to the travelling fans by not celebrating emphatically.
Clement's men provided a good response to the goal but a brief spell of possession somehow ended with Everton being awarded their second penalty kick of the game when Kenny was tripped by Olsson. Rooney stepped up to power past Fabianski into the corner, ending all hopes of a comeback.
The two-goal lead gave the Toffees the confidence to see out the game comfortably, with Sam Allardyce's men heading up to ninth with this win. Swansea's struggles continue, and they will be in the relegation zone over Christmas.