Ronald Koeman registered his first home Premier League win as Everton manager but required the assistance of a Shay Given own goal from a Leighton Baines penalty to achieve it.
The defender's second-half spot-kick rebounded back off the post and the Stoke goalkeeper to secure a 1-0 win which should, on the balance of play, have been far more comfortable.
Nevertheless the victory gave Everton their best start to a season since 2006 and ensured the renewed positivity at Goodison Park continues to grow.
Koeman handed a first Premier League start to new centre-back Ashley Williams, and also winger Yannick Bolasie, but it was a defender at the other end of the pitch who caught the eye.
Everton beat Stoke City through Shay Given own goal
