SAMPDORIA FALL TO EVERTON

Everton’s Under 18 side have triumphed in the T-Mobile tournament in Austria, beating Italian giants Sampdoria 1-0 in the final of the competition.

Everton's Under 18 side have triumphed in the T-Mobile tournament in Austria, beating Italian giants Sampdoria 1-0 in the final of the competition.

The young Blues progressed to the final on Sunday afternoon by beating Admira Wacker and Ujpest Budapest by the same scoreline.

However, the match with Sampdoria represented the toughest test, but the Blues were worthy winners in an enthralling contest.

Everton had to rely on goalkeeper of the tournament, Sean Lake, to produce a stunning save in the first half to keep the score level.

Bjarni Vidarsson and Paul Hopkins also had opportunities, but the only goal of the game was scored by player of the tournament, Victor Anichebe, in the second half.

The powerful 17-year-old striker profited from some excellent approach play from Everton and coolly slotted past the 'keeper.

As well as it being the youngsters' second trophy in a week, the game with Sampdoria was also their sixth match in eight days.

"We have certainly finished what has been a tough season with the toughest possible week," said coach Neil Dewsnip.

"This week, the boys have played six, won four and drawn two - and won two trophies in the process. They have been fully deserved.

"Against Sampdoria, the better team won. When Victor scored, they failed to trouble our goal and over the course of the match we created the better chances.

"It has been a long, hard, gruelling, but ultimately rewarding season. The players deserve enormous credit. They have been superb."