DESPITE taking an early lead through Jose Baxter, Everton under-18s were beaten 3-1 by West Bromwich Albion at Finch Farm on Saturday.

Neil Dewsnip’s side failed to build on their excellent win at Manchester United the previous week and despite a very good performance and fine start they lost for a fifth time this season.

Baxter scored the opening goal. The 17-year-old Bootle-born forward was on hand to score from close range after Aristote Nsiala has initially connected with Luke Garbutt’s corner.

Everton were good value for their lead and could easily have added to it. Captain Gerard Kinsella fired over from 25 yards, and Conor McAleny saw a cross-shot headed off the line by Baggies defender Sam Mantom.

Everton kept pressing and Garbutt saw on effort saved well by keeper Ryan Allsop and then Baxter saw another effort blocked by Cameron Gayle.

But West Brom equalised with two minutes left of the half. Elford-Alliyu scored past Adam Davies when he was sent through on goal.

Two minutes after the break the visitors went ahead when Bepamino scored.

Everton pressed for an equaliser and Tom Donegan fired off target from distance.

Lewis Codling replaced McAleny and he almost provided the chance for Everton to draw level with 20 minutes left. He pressured the West Brom defence and the ball broke to Garbutt, but his low shot was saved.