What happened?
Simon Davies picked a side with serious attacking intent – and they were on the front foot for the majority of the game.
They controlled the tempo and dominated possession in the first half but couldn’t find a breakthrough. Brahim Diaz, City’s creator-in-chief, looked dangerous, as did Premier League 2’s Player of the Month for October, Paolo Fernandes.
But although Davies will have been pleased with his side’s build-up play, he would have expected more in the final third. City, despite a wealth of attacking options, struggled to produce the right ball when in dangerous areas.
City almost went ahead when Fernandes unleashed a powerful left-foot shot against the post that had Mateusz Hewelt in the Everton goal beaten in the early stages of the second half. It was a great moment of individual skill but the upright saved the home side.
But Everton scored soon after – Dominic Calvert-Lewin producing a fine left-footed volley that left Billy O’Brien with no chance. It was a sickening blow for Davies who looked frustrated on the touchline.
City kept pressing and Angelino’s cross was almost turned in by substitute Thierry Ambrose in the final seconds – but this was Everton’s day.
What it means
Everton, who started the day in second, just one point behind City, have leapfrogged the young Blues and now sit top of the pile in Premier League 2.
Key moment
When Fernandes shot hit the post, you felt this wasn’t going to be for City. They were on top at that stage and looking the more likely.
Man of the Match: Aleix Garcia
Alex Garcia, sat just in front of the back four, has a wonderful range of passing. He offers solidity and creativity – a potent mix for a young deep-lying playmaker to have.
How they lined up?
O’Brien; Horsfield, Humphreys, Adarabioyo, Angelino; Garcia, Fernandes (Boadu 66’), Kongolo; Nmecha, Diaz (Ambrose 66’), Dilrosun
Subs: Oliver, Haug, Patching,
