Everton Under-18s were defeated 3-1 by Derby County at USM Finch Farm on Saturday afternoon.
In windy conditions, the visitors opened the scoring on 18 minutes when they seized on a defensive error.
Paul Tait’s troops responded well and Korede Adedoyin’s second goal in as many games got the Toffees back on level terms six minutes before the interval.
The Rams, however, managed to hit the front again on the stroke of half-time, despite a strong challenge on goalkeeper Hilton in the build-up.
The hosts enjoyed more possession in the second period but could not find another way through a resolute Derby defence.