EFC Academy: McCarten opens way for U18s

Nov 20 2007 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post

TWO second-half goals from James McCarten and Kieran Agard helped Everton under-18s stay level on points with Manchester City at the top of the North West section of the Premier Academy League as they beat Manchester United 2-0 on Saturday.

Neil Dewsnip’s side have still lost just once – to Manchester City – this season and continue in fine form. On Saturday there was little to choose between the sides before half-time although, Everton’s Norwegian keeper Lars Stubhaug produced two good saves following corners to deny United.

But Everton took the lead on 55 minutes when centre-back McCarten fired home a superb 25-yard free-kick.

Dewsnip’s youngsters effectively sealed the three points soon after. England youth international Jack Rodwell broke through the middle before putting Agard and London-born forward produced a typically clinical finish to make it 2-0 and secure their 10th win.

Dewsnip said: “It was probably the best we have done all year. We were very, very good. It was a close game until we scored with a smashing free-kick from James McCarten – a great strike. Then we were well on top for the rest of the game.

“We had chances to score more goals and up until the last five minutes when they came back at us we were very comfortable.

“It was an outstanding all-round performance and I am very pleased. The lads were very determined and very mature in their efforts.”

Everton are not in action this Saturday as there is an in-service weekend when Academy League coaches and staff around the country can attend training courses. Next up is a trip to Bolton on Saturday, December 1.

Dewsnip said: “It is a bit of a shame not to be playing for two weeks, because when you are playing as well as we are, the games can’t come quick enough.

“But it will be nice for them to catch their breath. They have worked really hard so far. It gives us a chance to assess the situation, get prepared and ready, raring to go again in a couple of weeks.”

Meanwhile Everton will be start their FA Youth Cup campaign at Goodison Park when they take on Bristol City in the third round on or before Saturday, December 15.

EVERTON U18s: Stubhaug; Stewart, McCarten, Sinnott, Barnett; Redmond, McCready, Rodwell, O’Kane; Agard (Akpan 80), Codling. Subs: Powell, Spencer.