GOALS from Johan Hammar and Hallum Hope helped Everton under-18s bounce back from their first defeat of the season to beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 at Finch Farm on Saturday.

Neil Dewsnip’s side lost 1-0 to Blackburn but picked up where they had left off prior to that with an excellent win. After trading blows for much of the first half, with a couple of half chances for each side, Everton took the lead just before break. Following a corner by Nathan Craig, Swedish defender Hammar headed in his first goal since his move from FF Malmo this summer.

In the second half Hope tapped in from Jordan Barrow’s cross to double Everton’s lead.

Dewsnip’s youngsters were in control and could easily have added more goals. Craig went close with a header.

Despite a late rally by Wolves where keeper Adam Davies tipped over superbly Everton held on for a fine win.

Coach Dewsnip said: “There was nothing in it for the first 40 minutes before we scored before half-time. Then we played well for a period after half-time and added a second. We had chances to add to that, but didn‘t take them. Then for some reason with about 15 minutes to go we lost our way a bit. We relaxed, made a few mistakes and got quite anxious.”

He added: “Overall it was quite a comfortable 2-0 win. The last 15 minutes was down to immaturity as there was no need to panic. But when you are 16, 17 you haven’t worked that out yet. That is something we could do better but generally I was very pleased.”

Everton will look for another success at Manchester City this Saturday (kick-off 11am).

Dewsnip said: “It will be a really tough one. We did really well there at the end of last year. We beat them 6-2 so I am sure they will be looking to even up the score.”

EVERTON UNDER-18s: Davies, Barrow, Murphy, Hammar, Garbutt, Dobie, Orenuga (Lundstram 60), Kinsella, Craig, Hope, McAleny. Subs: Roberts, Higgins, Cummins.