Walker: "I'm Proud Of Their Efforts"

Derby County Under-18s manager Justin Walker was left proud of his side’s performance, despite losing 4-2 at USM Finch Farm against Everton.

After taking the lead twice in the first half on Merseyside through Morgan Whittaker and Archie Brown, braces from Kieran Phillips and Ellis Simms earned three points to extend the Toffees’ advantage at the top of the Premier League – North table to four points.

The result ended Derby’s seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions, dating back to the start of September.

They may have lost by two goals, but it was a valiant effort from the Rams, who had won five on the bounce going into the game, one that left manager Walker satisfied.

He told dcfc.co.uk: “I’m proud of the performance, I don’t think that the 4-2 reflected the game for one reason or another.

“I was disappointed because we gave cheap goals away today which is unlike us, but I still thought we were very good in terms of some of the football that we tried to play.

“Everton are a good team without the ball. They work you, are very physical and we couldn’t really get our rhythm going from what we have had in previous weeks, but on the whole, I was pleased with our performance.

“The character that the lads showed, we kept going until the end. I am delighted with the performance and the courage shown in terms of their attitude, work ethic and the way we moved the ball.”

The Rams’ opener came inside the first 20 minutes when Whittaker’s venomous strike flew into the top corner from outside of the penalty area, having been teed up by Kornell MacDonald.

It was Whittaker’s fifth league goal of the season, having created five more in the Premier League – North this term.

Walker was full of praise for the forward, who he believes was the star man against Everton.

“Morgan’s goal was a fantastic strike”, said Walker.

“I thought he deserved that, he was probably the best player on show today.

“I thought the start we had was pretty much down to him.”

Everton’s victory continued their strong start to the season, winning eight of their opening nine league matches and drawing the other.

The Toffees gave Walker’s side a tough challenge away from home and one that Walker believes his side can learn from.

He said: “Today just wasn’t our day, I’m disappointed with goals, but I am so proud of what the players have achieved over the last two months.

“It’s all about the individuals progressing and that is happening, and they are learning in the right direction.

“It is one result and it was going to come at some stage. The performances were fine and a good indicator, and I am proud of their efforts.”