CITY'S Under-18s narrowly lost their first league game of the season 1-0 away to Everton.

In what was an evenly-fought game with few clear cut opportunities for either side, a header from Toffee striker Hallam Hope in the 65th minute proved decisive at Finch Farm.

Speaking after the game Academy Manager said: "Overall it was a good team performance and I felt we were the better team, although they looked dangerous from set plays and it was no surprise that their goal came from a wide free kick.

"The first half was even although we gave away silly free-kicks which enabled them to put us under pressure with deliveries into our box. In open play we played some really good football and created an excellent opportunity with Sam Kelly driving in behind the full back and onto goal, but his cut back was behind the advancing players.

"Early in the second half Josh Dawkin had two one-on-ones with their goalkeeper from which we deserved to go in front but unfortunately we didn't  take these opportunities. We went behind after 65 mins but continued to press for an equaliser and created some half chances. Overall pleased but we need to learn to be mentally tougher."

City: Matthews, Dobbs, Stephens, Florence (Clunan 75), Francomb, Gordon, Loza (Simons, trialist, 80), Brindley, Dawkin, Ball, Kelly. Subs not used: Aytac (trialist), Gunn, McKenzie.