Sunderland Res v Everton Res
James Vaughan played almost 70 minutes for Everton reserves as they drew 0-0 at Sunderland.
The home side would have won the Barclays Premier Reserve League North had they taken three points.
But the Toffees put in a solid if not inspirational display to secure a well-earned point.
Vaughan's 68 minutes were his first since November as he returned from knee surgery.
Typically, his performance was full of energy and enthusiasm and the home-grown forward will now be looking to make an impact with the first team at this crucial part of the season.
Sunderland started the brighter with efforts from Martyn Waghorn and Jordan Cook forcing Carlo Nash into action inside the first ten minutes.
Everton's first surge forward saw Kieran Agard fire in a left-foot volley from the edge of the box which required Nick Colgan to make a save to his right.
Waghorn went close again and Jack Colback hit the side netting but Sunderland couldn't find an opening goal.
In contrast, chances for the Toffees were scarce, though in the 24th minute Vaughan's pass lead to a powerful run by Agard. The forward saw his cross-cum-shot deflected out to John Paul Kissock, only for the diminuitive midfielder to send his powerful volley six inches over the bar.
Just before the half hour Waghorn lashed a left-foot volley wide and then a couple of minutes later, Agard played in Vaughan but the returning striker failed to get sufficient purchase on his strike to worry Colgan.
Agard had another strike easily saved early in the second half before Waghorn replied with a sliced effort a couple of minutes later.
In the 65th minute a dipping effort from Blues' midfielder Hope Akpan from long range was just over, then Jose Baxter could only finish a splendid move with a wayward shot from distance.
Vaughan was replaced by Adam Forshaw in the 68th minute, having put in a hard-working shift up front with little reward.
But Nash was in action again with 15 minutes to go to stop the ever-dangerous Waghorn's header as title-chasing Sunderland sought a winner.
But neither side could break the deadlock before time expired.
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