The young Toffees delivered a statement performance at Walton Hall Park on Friday evening, storming into the PL2/PDL playoff semi-finals with a commanding 4-2 victory over Brentford U21s.
It wasn't all smooth sailing from the start. Everton found themselves trailing inside the first 10 minutes and struggled to find their rhythm for much of the opening half. But just before the break, Luca Davis stepped up to level the scores in the 44th minute, giving the home side a crucial lift heading into halftime.
The momentum shifted decisively early in the second half when Brentford's captain received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge, leaving the visitors a man down. Everton capitalized on the advantage, with Demi Akarakiri turning home a pinpoint cross from Braiden Graham in the 64th minute to put the Blues ahead.
Graham was in inspired form throughout the night. Just five minutes later, he was hauled down while charging toward goal, earning a clear penalty. Showing composure beyond his years, he coolly chipped the spot-kick into the net to make it 3-1 in the 69th minute.
The young forward wasn't done yet. In the 81st minute, Graham produced a moment of magic, clipping a first-time shot goalward that caught the Brentford goalkeeper off guard and bobbled into the corner of the net. With two goals and two assists on the night, he showcased exactly why he's such a well-rounded attacker—finding space, creating chances, and finishing with flair.
Everton had several more opportunities to extend their lead, but it was Brentford who managed to grab a late consolation goal. Still, the damage was done, and the Young Blues advance with confidence.
That said, there are areas to tighten up. Despite the win, Everton looked vulnerable at the back at times, conceding a far too easy second goal and enduring a nervy spell defending corners. The attacking firepower is clearly there—at times it looked like Brentford were down two or three players, not just one—but defensive solidity will be key as the playoffs approach.
Starting XI: Pickford, Davis, Samuels-Smith, Welch, Thomas, Foster (Olayiwola 84'), Pita (Matos 77'), Bates, Benjamin (Catesby 46'), Akarakiri (Boakye 76'), Graham.