Sunderland under-18s face Everton this weekend as they continue to chase their first U18 Premier League win of the season.
Here's your all you need to know guide...
Date: Saturday 12 November 2016
Time: 12.30pm
Location: Academy of Light
Competition: U18 Premier League
Sunderland: DDLLL
Elliott Dickman’s side suffered defeat last weekend at home to Derby County despite leading for most of the game.
Sonny Best’s close-range finish had given the Lads a first-half lead before the Rams rallied back late on to score twice in the final nine minutes and turn the game on its head.
The defeat has left the youth team without a win in three matches, having also lost to Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers.
Everton: DWWDD
Unbeaten in their last five league fixtures, the Toffees arrive on Wearside looking to maintain their fine run of form.
With two wins in their previous five league matches, Everton lie fifth in the league four points off Blackburn Rovers in fourth.
While stalemates against Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion have seen Everton draw blanks in their last two matches, Sunderland provide a good test for the Toffees who will be keen to return to winning ways.
The Last five...
Oct 1 2016 – Everton U18 4-4 Sunderland U18
Nov 21 2015 – Everton U18 2-2 Sunderland U18
Aug 22 2015 – Sunderland U18 2-4 Everton U18
Jan 9 2015 – Sunderland U18 0-1 Everton U18
Sept 27 2014 – Everton U18 3-1 Sunderland U18
Focus: Chris Allan
As Sunderland under-18s continue to come to terms with the loss of talismanic midfielder Adam Bale, Chris Allan has taken on the mantle of leading the Black Cats’ charge for their first league win well. While victories continue to elude them, spirits remain high as preparations are finely tuned ahead of the visit of Everton.
