Goalkeeper Harry Tyrer says Everton Under-23s’ spirit and resilience were key to Monday night’s 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Southport FC.
Lewis Dobbin’s 44th-minute header – assisted by a fine cross from Blues debutant Nathan Patterson – proved decisive in the Premier League 2 encounter as David Unsworth’s in-form team stretched their unbeaten run to seven matches.
Tyrer played a vital role in Everton recording a clean sheet, making excellent saves from Spurs duo Dane Scarlett and Alfie Devine.
Speaking to evertonfc.com, the Toffees stopper was eager to pay tribute to the team’s collective defensive effort against a talented Tottenham outfit.
The victory lifts Everton up to eighth in Premier League 2, with the Blues just two points behind fifth-placed Crystal Palace in a congested table.
“It’s a great win and the lads dug deep,” Tyrer said. “Credit to Lewis for scoring the goal and then we saw the game through.
“When you play for Everton, you’ve got to fight for every point and we did that.
“As a keeper, there’s nothing better than a clean sheet.
“I made a couple of decent saves but the lads in front of me did a great job defending and made some great blocks.”
Tyrer added Everton’s display was typified by January signing Patterson, who impressed in completing the opening 60 minutes of the match.
“It was a good defensive performance all round,” he added.
“I thought Nathan did very well. It was a great debut for him. He gave everything.
“The win keeps up our good run of results. We just want to keep it going as much as possible and keep climbing the table.”
