Everton Under-23s began the final phase of their season with a 2-1 home victory over Middlesbrough.
The young Blues, who will compete in Group B for the remainder of the campaign, opened the scoring on 25 minutes when Jack Kiersey turned home a rebound from close range.
Kevin Sheedy’s side continued on the front foot into the second period but, despite their dominance, spurned a few half chances to double their advantage.
A second eventually came two minutes from time when winger Daniel Bramall latched on to a long ball and finished with aplomb into the bottom corner.