Derby 0-2 Everton u18 - Unbeaten run continues to 11

Everton Under-18s extended their unbeaten run to 11 games with a comfortable 2-0 win at Derby County.

The young Blues had gone a fortnight without action following last week’s fog-induced postponement against Newcastle United, but showed no signs of rustiness at the Rams’ training centre.

Shayne Lavery opened the scoring moments before the break and Daniel Bramall’s piece of individual brilliance midway through the second half secured all three points which keep Kevin Sheedy’s side firmly in the mix for the top-four positions that form the end of season title play-offs.

Looking to take control of the contest from the off, the Blues were initially kept at bay by the Rams goalkeeper who made a series of superb saves.

On 42 minutes, however, Antony Evans played a ball through to forward Lavery who took a touch before firing into the far corner to hand Everton the initiative.

More of the same followed in the second period before the game was clinched on 67 minutes. The Toffees took a short corner and in-form winger Bramall bent the ball with his right boot into the top corner.

The Blues continued to play the superior football and create openings without increasing their lead further, the only negative Sheedy had to reflect on at full time.

“It could have been more,” he told evertonfc.com. “I thought our 90-minute performance was the best this season. We really played some attractive attacking football with good combination and link-up play and all players contributed.

“The lads are oozing with confidence at the moment. It was disappointing last week’s game was off because we want the games to keep coming as the form is so good now. We’ve won seven and drawn four, but we should have won those four too. It was nice to get the win today and also keep a clean sheet after conceding four sloppy goals in the 4-4 against Manchester City last time out."

The Under-18s turn their attention to the FA Youth Cup now, with Thursday's tie against Tranmere Rovers taking place at Goodison Park, 7pm.

Tickets will be available on the turnstiles, priced at £3 for adults and £1 for concessions. Due to competition rules, free entry for Season Ticket holders and Foreverton members is NOT available for this fixture.

Everton Under-18s: Renshaw, Morris, Lees, Feeney, Harrington, Bramall, Baningime, Kiersey, Lavery, Evans, Hornby.

Subs: Denny (Baningime 54), Moore (Hornby 60).