CONOR McALENY scored with 15 minutes left to earn Everton under-18s a point at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday in a 2-2 draw.

Neil Dewsnip’s side were looking to bounce back from their extra-time defeat in the FA Youth Cup at Blackburn, but they missed the chance to go top of the FA Premier Academy League Group C table.

Everton took the lead against West Brom on 25 minutes as James McCarten profited from a goalkeeping error.

Everton keeper Adam Davies superbly saved a harshly awarded penalty in the first half to keep them ahead.

But five minutes before the break West Brom drew level. The Baggies had been the last side to score against Everton in the Academy League almost five months ago. And poor defending saw them repeat that after a goalmouth scramble.

West Brom took the lead 10 minutes into the second half when McCarten's clearance was charged down and the home side got in to score.

But Everton showed their battling qualities and following a tactical switch by coach Dewsnip which defender McCarten moved up front, the centre-back set up McAleny’s equaliser on 72 minutes.

Dewsnip said: “It was a really exciting game. Our lads sensed they could lose and didn’t like that. It is not something they had experienced in the league for a long time.”

Everton play their game in hand on leaders Manchester United today with the rearranged Merseyside derby with Liverpool at Finch Farm (kick-off 2pm). The game was postponed in January due to the snow and ice. Everton are concerned that overnight frost could again make the pitch too hard again.

Everton will face Huddersfield Town at Finch Farm on Saturday (11am).

EVERTON UNDER-18s: Davies, Nsiala, Bidwell, McCarten, Murphy, Orenuga, Dobie (Craig 65), Akpan, Donegan, Codling (Mustafi 75), McAleny (Hope 85). Subs: Roberts.