Halid Djankpata's third league goal of the season was enough to bank all three points for Everton Under-18s at Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Paul Tait's side went to the East Midlands seeking a swift pick-me-up following the midweek FA Youth Cup defeat by Manchester United.

And manager Tait's players delivered a resilient and determined performance to emerge on top from a tight contest.

The teams pretty much shared possession and clear chances were at a premium, albeit both sides reached double figures for attempts on goal.

Few of those efforts were directed on target but 16-year-old Djankpata found his range four minutes before half-time to hand the visitors an advantage they wouldn't relinquish.

Tait's team, who host Derby Country at USM Finch Farm on Tuesday, climbed to seventh in Premier League North at full-time.