Everton-U21s lost 2-1 to Nottingham Forest at Haig Avenue in Premier League 2 on Monday night, writes Annie King at The Big Help Stadium.
This was a second 2-1 defeat for Paul Tait’s side following the loss at Aston Villa. With only 10 points in 12 games and one win in their last five, the Toffees entered the game at The Big Help Stadium to try and turn the tide with the prospect of picking up three points.
To kick start the drama Everton had a penalty controversialy waved away as Katia Kouyate was pushed over in the box, however referee Paul Marsden wasn’t interested.
Just 11 minutes in, Justin Hanks went down with an injury and received medical treatment. Eventually, Warren Joyce was forced to take off the Forest defender, who was substituted and replaced by Jack Nadin.
The first goal came in the 28th minute from Jamie McDonnell for the visitors following an assist from Jack Perkins who played the ball perfectly onto the skipper’s head, who nodded it home.
Forest then doubled their lead just seven minutes later after Joe Gardner whipped in a venomous cross, where Everton defender, Edward Jones, found himself in an awkward position as the ball deflected off his leg into the back of his own net.
As half-time loomed, Tait’s side managed to pull one back through 17-year-old Harrison Armstrong after he received a well-placed ball at the back post from Jenson Metcalfe.
In the second half, although neither side produced a goal, both teams generated countless chances making it an enjoyable watch.
Lewis Warrington was replaced by Isaac Heath in the 60th minute after making his first appearance since mid-January.
Soon after, Heath fired a powerful ball from 10 yards out, but his effort crept over the crossbar.
With just six minutes left, Francis Okowonkro headed towards goal, but he was denied by Bott to prevent and Everton equaliser.
Despite not earning any points here, the Toffees can hopefully add to their promising performance next Monday in their league tie where they face Fulham at Walton Hall Park.
