ACADEMY FOOTBALL: Daniel Murphy fires Everton under-18s winner to blow Stoke off course

Nov 24 2009 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post

DANIEL MURPHY scored the only goal of the game to give Everton under-18s a 1-0 victory over Stoke City at Finch Farm on Saturday.

In difficult windy conditions Neil Dewsnip’s side were happy to come away with all three points in the FA Premier Academy League.

The 17-year-old headed home what turned out to be the winner in off the underside of the bar following a free-kick from just before half-time.

Karl Sheppard almost doubled Everton’s advantage soon after but he saw his effort hit the post.

There had been little chance for either side to play too much good football in the blustery conditions but Everton were grateful for a linesman’s flag after the visitors saw a goal ruled out early in the second half.

There were few real chances for the rest of the match and Everton held on for the three points.

Coach Dewsnip said: “The conditions were horrific. It was a gale force wind blowing from one end to the other which meant it was very difficult for both teams’ players. Very little quality football was able to be played. Thankfully it was a case of just coming out the other side as winners.

“In the second half both teams huffed and puffed but never really threatened either goals. We were glad to have won, but there was nothing else really to come out of it.”