Everton FC - Athletic Club U23

Athletic Club's Under-21s put up a brave fight and probably deserved more as they were beaten 1-0 by Everton at Walton Hall Park. It was a match which drew a lot of interest, with the Toffees' first team coach, Sean Dyche, even spotted in the stands on a typically cold and windy English night.

Athletic dominated against a strong Everton side containing three internationals in Ben Godfrey, Michael Keane and club captain Seamus Colelman. In the end, only Lewis Dobbin's second-half strike could separate the sides.

The hosts had the first clear chance of the match straight after kick-off, but they were thwarted by a superb save from Oier Gastesi.

Moments later, Atheltic had their first effort of the night. Quicala Bari shot and the home keeper Billy Crellin stuck out his leg to send the ball wide.

The Blues' goal came in the 40th minute, Dobbin curling in an effort Gastesi could do nothing to save.

The Cubs went hunting for an equaliser in the second 45. Electric winger Elijah Gift had three clear chances to score after coming off the bench, but he struggled to find a way through a Blue wall in front of the home goal.

Centre-forward Iñigo López also had an opportunity, missing the target late on. Although they pushed until the very end, Athletic ran out of time.

The Cubs return home to Bilbao empty-handed but after a great learning experience in Liverpool. The Under-21s will next visit Fulham in London on December 20 before returning to Merseyside for the final group match against Liverpool FC on January 24.