Derby County’s Under-18s tasted defeat for the first time in Premier League - North in the 2024/25 season with a 3-2 reverse at Everton on Saturday.
Derby stormed into the lead inside the opening ten minutes through Republic of Ireland youth international Niall McAndrew after being set up by midfielder Owen Eames.
Eames himself made it 2-0 after 18 minutes to put the Rams firmly in the driving seat against the Toffees.
Everton pulled a goal back early in the second half through Braiden Graham and they went on to equalise just after the hour mark through an own goal by defender Adisa Osayande.
The home side completed their dramatic comeback on 73 minutes as Justin Clarke found the back of the net.
Everton had Clarke sent off shortly after taking the lead and despite late pressure from Derby, the hosts held on to claim all three points.
The Under-18s return to action on home turf at Moor Farm Training Ground against Manchester City on Saturday 9th November (12pm kick-off).
The Team
Derby County Under-18s: Price (GK), I Gordon, K Gordon (Green 61), Tola, Banks, Osayande, Richards, Agustien, McAndrew (Doyle 61), Eames, Corry (Mintus 72).
Substitutes Not Used: Canoville, Rees (GK).
Post-Match Reaction
Under-18 Lead Coach Danny Maye said: “It was another good performance throughout most the game. However, we weren’t quite ourselves in the final third.
“We built very well and scored two excellent goals going through the thirds and there was some excellent link up and individual play.
“Our pressing wasn’t at its best. We were a little slow to get pressure on the ball and didn’t protect the centre well enough.
“Overall, it was a good game with loads of opportunities to learn. We didn’t manage momentum well enough, and it ultimately cost us.”