JOSE Baxter put his off-field problems to one side when he lined up for Everton Reserves against Manchester United last night.
But despite Andy Holden’s men putting in a spirited display, a Federico Macheda goal was enough to win the FA Premier Reserve League Northern Section game at the Halton Stadium.
The match welcomed the return of defender Seamus Coleman from a foot injury which had ruled him out since pre-season, and also saw United keeper Edwin van der Sar make his comeback to competitive football after breaking his hand in the summer.
Baxter caused a moment of unease for van Der Sar as his long-range free-kick forced an awkward catch right on the line after eight minutes, and an energetic Kieran Agard – clearly boosted following his late appearance for the first team last week – worked tirelessly up front.
After 25 minutes of end-to-end play, King provided United with their first realistic chance of the half, yet skied his strike high into the stands.
A hectic opening to the second period saw Macheda fire a strong header at Nash from close range, but the stopper confidently collected the ball at his feet.
United were rewarded for their persistence after 55 minutes – Macheda found room to strike home with force and the ball dribbled over the outstretched palm of Nash to put the visitors in front.
Baxter made way for Conor McAleny on the hour mark – a period which saw the Everton back-line keep the United attack at bay. Their control then provided opportunities for Agard and the young striker gifted Everton a chance with 15 minutes to go, beating his man to stretch a cross past a diving van der Sar but no player in blue was there to capitalise on the Dutchman's miss.
Andy Holden handed Zac Thompson his competitive debut for the team with eight minutes remaining in place of Coleman, who received a warm applause from the 1,200-strong Halton crowd.
A late effort from Forshaw called van der Sar into action again, but the Dutchman’s goalkeeping expertise denied Everton a late equaliser.
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