Derby County’s Under-18s battled to a 2-0 victory against Everton at Moor Farm on Saturday afternoon in Under-18 Premier League - North.

Second half goals from Wales youth international Cruz Allen and striker Lennon Wheeldon secured the three points.

The Rams started brightly, as Allen teed up Owen Eames just outside the box, but he couldn’t direct his effort goalwards.

Everton had the best chance of the half to break the deadlock, but winger George Finney’s first-time volley sailed over.

Danny Maye’s side started the second half brightly, and their efforts were rewarded in the 53rd minute after a cross from Niall McAndrew was cushioned down well by a trialist to set up Allen, who volleyed home.

Derby got their second two minutes later, after Wheeldon was tripped in the box. He won and scored the penalty, sending the visiting goalkeeper the wrong way.

Derby began to take control of the game and put the Everton defence under pressure. McAndrew came inches away from a spectacular third, but his half-volley from 25-yards out bounced back off the post.

The result means the Rams go back up to third in the Under-18 Premier League - North with three games remaining this season.

Derby County Under-18s: Price (GK), Perry, Gough, Hawkins, Osayande, Cox (Augstien 61), Trialist, Eames (Tola 72), Wheeldon (Oguntolu 72), Allen, McAndrew.

Substitutes Not Used: Shattell (GK), Canoville.

Words: Will Stanier.