David Unsworth revealed some “strong words” at half-time were the catalyst for Everton Under-23s’ “fantastic” second-half display at Stockport County.
The Blues trailed 1-0 at the break but hit four unanswered goals in a second 45 minutes which Unsworth insisted provided an accurate reflection of his side’s quality.
Substitutes Con Ouzounidis and Nathan Broadhead both struck inside three minutes to alter the course of the game.
Centre-back Ouzounidis resisted the urge to retreat following a set-piece on 56 minutes and the Australian was rewarded for his adventure when Harry Charsley expertly landed the ball on his head six yards from goal.