Francis Jeffers said Everton’s Under-23s will need to “take their medicine and regroup” after a disappointing mini derby defeat saw them miss the chance to go top of Premier League 2.
The Blues called on Beni Baningime, Mo Besic and Nikola Vlasic at Prenton Park but conceded twice either side of the break, despite a positive start.
Luke Garbutt saw a goalbound effort blocked in the opening exchanges, while Vlasic fired over after Josh Bowler’s initial shot had been charged down.
However, Herbie Kane steered in Harry Wilson’s cut back, before Reds skipper Corey Whelan headed home from a corner to give the hosts a 2-0 lead at the break.