Everton Reserves

Everton's U-21 team put in an impressive showing in their season opener as they dropped Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0.

Both goals came in the second half as Wolverhampton really dictated things to come out of the gate. Everton was held in the game by Polish keeper Mateusz Taudal who made several first-half stops.

As expected, it took a while for the young Toffees to get a feel for the first game of the season but Alan Stubbs' boys weathered the storm.

Towards the midway point Everton really started to come alive with Chris Long orchestrating an impressive Everton effort.

Long came indecently close to notching the match's first tally as he hit both posts at the 38 minute mark. Long -- who is an English Youth International -- was Everton's best player throughout and if he puts on a show like this consistently will be one of the names to watch on the youth squad.

Another name to watch -- Francisco Junior -- also turned in an impressive 2013-14 debut.

The goals finally came in the second half when Hallam Hope was able to deposit his own rebound of a Jonjoe Kenny cross.

Everton were dealt some luck a few minutes later when Wolves looked to have tied the score -- only to see the flag go up.

Conor Grant delivered the knockout blow for the Blues on an encouraging set piece. Grant was able to roar a 25-yarder past Wolves' keeper Jon Flatt.

The young Blues look sharp to contend in the u-21 league again this year. They continue their campaign at home against West Ham United on Monday.