Everton under-23s have taken a massive step towards qualification into the knockout stages of the Premier League Cup after their comeback victory over group leaders Southampton yesterday.
Heading into the fixture, it was seen as a ‘must-win’ game for the toffees, sitting level on points in their group with Birmingham City with one game to go.
However, Birmingham would have to play bottom of the group Colchester and Everton would have to play top of the group Southampton.
The Saints remained unbeaten going into their final game of the group stages, winning 4 and drawing one of their 5 games.
In the reverse of this fixture, a 9-man Everton would lose 2-1 at Haig Avenue after leading at halftime.
The game would start well for the toffees, with 16-year-old Ishe Samuels-Smith giving his side the lead inside 20 minutes.
Southampton would turn the game on its head shortly after, scoring two goals in 3 minutes through Pearce and Pambou.
Everton would respond well and draw level just before the break, with Katia Kouyate firing past Wright in the Saints’ goal.
The in-form Francis Okoronkwo would give the blues a precious lead 10 minutes into the second half. Despite some late pressure from the home side, Everton would hold on and earn themselves a much-needed 3 points.
FT. #EFCU21 defeat Southampton in the #PLCup – well played boys! 👏 pic.twitter.com/BsIpmqj8L8
— Everton Academy (@EvertonAcademy) January 18, 2023
Paul Tait’s side now need to hope that Birmingham fail to beat Colchester by more than three goals to ensure that they escape their group.