Under-18s: Wanderers 1-2 Everton

Liam Gibson’s first-half strike ensured that the two sides entered the break on level terms, but a late Toffee’s goal snatched victory for the visitors at Lostock on Saturday.

David Lee and Tony Kelly’s side started brightly, creating a number of chances in the first period as Elliot Newby almost secured an early breakthrough for the Baby Whites, but his effort went narrowly wide.  

But Gibson would soon get Wanderers’ opening goal, as the defender’s ball into the penalty area eluded everyone to creep inside the far post, before the Toffees found a goal of their own to level the scores before the interval.

In an even second half, Dylan Wolstenholme went within the width of a goalpost from giving Wanderers the lead, but the midfielder’s strike from the edge of the box struck Everton’s upright.  

However, the Toffee’s would steal a late winner, but head coach Lee was pleased with his side’s performance and he has expressed his delight after a number of academy players continued their progression into Jamie Fullarton’s development squad. 

“The performances of the players were very pleasing,” Lee said. “Many of them were starting the game either for the first time this season or for others after three weeks due to the adverse weather conditions.

“Overall, the players conducted very well against an experienced team.

“On the bigger picture, the nucleus of the squad have moved up to the development squad, and that's what the production of players is all about. 

“It was pleasing to see Zach Clough, Chris Lester and Niall Maher all start for the development squad in their recent game against Manchester City, and I hope that this progression can continue for other members of the squad.”