Everton laboured to beat Gor Mahia 2-1 in a friendly played at National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Thursday night.

Wayne Rooney lifted the roof of the National Stadium with a stunning goal after 34 minutes, although Gor Mahia’s Jacques Tuyisenge levelled with a bullet header soon after.

A brand new Everton XI started the second half and it was Kieran Dowell who won it with a fine strike midway through the the period.

Everton were partial aggressors in the first stanza but few chances were carved out against an improved Kenyan side.

Gor always looked impressive, and had more chances as Musa Mohammed hadhis shot  going inches wide, and then Blackberry Odhiambo was denied by some smart keeping by Stekelenburg.

The visiting side were stronger and stronger as the second half progressed with Koamen having brought in a new team that includes Senegalese International Idrissa Guaye. Chances began to come for Blues as Dowell had his shot sent wide, with Tom Davies doing likewise with a shot.

Dowell sealed the win eight minutes from time wil a fierce shot past Peter Odhiambo who had a best performance after coming in the second stanza.

Gor tried hard to get back into the game, but were thwarted by some sturdy visiting side, who in the end were comfortably able to hold out for their win.

Gan Barry could well have made it 3-1 late on, but squandered a great chance after Keane had pushed forward for a corner.