Everton U18 face Middlesbrough U18 on Saturday, May 1 at 1:30 PM in a basement battle that neither side can afford to lose. Both clubs are deep in the relegation picture in the Premier League U18, and defeat here could prove costly come the end of the season.

Everton U18 come into this fixture in mixed form (2W 0D 3L). Middlesbrough U18, meanwhile, arrive in mixed form (2W 1D 2L) — actually the better-performing side in recent weeks. Everton U18 head into this on the back of a defeat, while Middlesbrough U18 arrive off a win — momentum clearly with the visitors.

Despite playing at home, Everton U18 face a side that has dominated this fixture historically. Middlesbrough U18 have won 5 of 10 encounters, with 3 draws. Their last encounter ended in Middlesbrough U18 won 2–1. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.2 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Everton U18 a slight edge, but Middlesbrough U18 are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.