Last week Everton held the final of the inaugural edition of the Ian Lavo Memorial Cup at Finch Farm.

The Club was devastated by the untimely passing of long-standing colleague and friend, Ian Lavery, last year. Ian was a stalwart of the Academy for more than two decades and was revered by players, families and staff at Finch Farm. 

His passion for both Everton and youth football was unquestionable, and the Ian Lavo Memorial Cup was set up in his honour. 

It serves to provide new Year 7/Under-12 teams from some of the biggest and traditionally strongest footballing schools across Merseyside the opportunity to play and compete at the Club’s training ground.

This year, West Derby High School and St. Margaret’s Church of England Academy reached the final, with the latter eventually coming out on top with a 3-2 win in a good-spirited and entertaining contest.