Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images
Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images
Everton U18s have been eliminated from the FA Youth Cup following a 3-0 defeat against Man City.
Keith Southern’s side were reduced to 10 men in the second-half, with a controversial penalty also given against Demi Akarakiri.
Everton’s top academy prospect Braiden Graham, who usually represents the U21s, was unable to have his usual impact on the game, which was overshadowed by the referee.
There was plenty of effort from the Young Blues, but the game was taken away from them with some poor decisions from the official.
Everton can hold their heads up high, but it is City who make it through to the final four following goals from Floyd Samba, Reigan Heskey and Teddie Lamb.
Manchester City v Everton - FA Youth Cup
Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images
Refereeing madness
Looking back on the penalty awarded to Man City: Demi Akarakiri takes the ball.
And looking back on the sending off for Olayiwola: Malik must have said something as his challenge did not even receive an appeal from the opponent.
10 minutes remain
Only 10 more minutes to go. Everton need a miracle. They can hold their heads up high, though. City have been the better side, but some of the decisions made have been farcical.
Goal – City secure the win
Well this is going to be the end for the Young Blues. Teddie Lamb has just come on and he makes it 3-0 to the hosts.
The referee has completely flipped the game on its head in this second half.
Goal – City double their lead
He’s been a threat all night and Reigan Heskey gets his goal through a curling, right-footed effort.
He looks a real player this lad!
Olayiwola seemingly sent off for dissent
It would appear that Olayiwola has said something to the referee that he did not like. The referee has certainly made himself the storyline for a well-contested affair up to this point.
Everton withstand Man City pressure
Aside from the odd counter-attack, that was a half dominated by City. Everton have struggled to retain possession and struggled to get the best out of players like Shea Pita.
Half-time
Everton go into the break all square after a dominant display from City. Everton have had their chances, but it is the hosts who have gone closest to opening the scoring.
Olayiwola strikes from distance
Malik Olayiwola has looked really dangerous on the attack. His effort from range is parried by the Man City goalkeeper.
How have Everton not conceded?
Lukjanciks spills a Man City shot and somehow the City forward misses the rebound hitting the post from yards out.
A real let-off for Everton!
Braiden Graham receiving treatment
Graham falls awkwardly from a contested header. The Everton star is receiving medical attention from the physios.
Who to keep an eye out for
Aside from Graham, Everton fans should keep an eye on Demi Akarakiri and Shea Pita.
Pita scored the opening goal of the previous round against the Tractor Boys, and he has gone on to impress with the U21s since.
Keith Southern excited for Man City test
“The boys and the Club have earned the right to be here,” said Southern.
“We’ve got a massive challenge ahead, one that I hope the players embrace and rise to and meet head on because I’m really excited and what we can produce on Friday night.”
Braiden Graham set for lead role
Braiden Graham makes the starting XI as expected. The 18-year-old is set for the leading role in the side after inspiring the victory against Ipswich Town last month.
Paul Tait has admitted Graham could make his Everton debut under David Moyes, but he would need to play off the wing.
That is a strong starting XI from Keith Southern. Goalkeeper Douglass Lukjanciks drops back down from the U21s as I suggested.
George Pickford’s loan exit for Southport handed Lukjanciks a promotion to Paul Tait’s side, but he returns for the cup clash.
Everton U18s starting XI
Lukjanciks; Lambert, Poland, Evans, McEveley, Matos, Pita, Akarakiri, Loney, Olayiwola, Graham.
How to watch
Everton U18s will be looking for a spot in the last four of the FA Youth Cup, with the game being played over in Manchester.
Unlike the previous round, this game will be streamed for free over on the FA Cup’s YouTube channel.
For full details, click HERE.