LOSC go close, Everton make a point

• Everton stay top of Group H and unbeaten in section
• LOSC record third successive UEFA Europa League draw
• Home midfielder Idrissa Gueye strikes outside of post in 26th minute
• Vincent Enyeama makes save of match to deny Aiden McGeady in second half
• Next games: Everton v LOSC (6 November)

UEFA Europa League Group H leaders Everton FC and LOSC Lille remain unbeaten in the section after cancelling each other out in a 0-0 draw in France.

Opportunities were few and far between as two committed and disciplined sides applied themselves throughout. LOSC midfielder Idrissa Gueye shaved a post midway through the first half, while Aiden McGeady enjoyed the chance of the match for the visitors, denied by a fine Vincent Enyeama save approaching the final quarter. The return match between the clubs in early November is likely to have a critical influence on the qualification prospects of both outfits.

LOSC's Gueye had the best effort of the opening period, grazing the post with a swerving right-footed shot from 20 metres in the 26th minute after fellow midfielder Florent Balmont had regained possession high up the pitch. Everton's best move of the half came eight minutes prior to Gueye's attempt as a fine Marko Baša challenge prevented Samuel Eto'o moving in on goal after a one-two with Steven Pienaar.

Divock Origi, back at LOSC on loan after a summer move to Everton's city rivals Liverpool FC, let fly with a powerful effort early in the second half which flew narrowly wide. Romelu Lukaku – Origi's fellow Belgian international – made an instant impact off the Everton bench, creating McGeady's glorious chance in the 64th minute. The Irish international attempted to guide the ball past Enyeama, who rushed off his line and made himself big.