Everton are seven points behind Division 1 leaders Liverpool after a goalless draw at home to Manchester United, who are out of the relegation zone.
Bassala Sambou had three efforts in the opening six minutes for the Toffees, while Josh Bowler also came close for the hosts at Merseyrail Community Stadium.
James Wilson had United's best chance but Everton nearly won it in the 87th minute when captain Morgan Feeney's header hit the bar.
Everton are now third in the table, a point behind Leicester City who won at Derby County on Friday. United are up to 10th after Sunderland's loss to Swansea City.
See: Everton report | Man Utd report
Next fixtures
Everton: 1 Dec v Leicester (H) PL Cup
Man Utd: 2 Dec v Celtic (H) PL International Cup