Everton U21

vs

Ipswich U21

Tips, Stats and Odds

Ipswich U21 can cause an upset against inconsistent Toffees

Each team’s recent goal scoring returns suggest that Friday’s Premier League 2 clash between Everton U21 and Ipswich U21 will be open, attacking and entertaining. Ipswich have won four of their last five PL2 matches and have one of the most prolific away records in the league with 23 goals scored in nine. The odds of 107/100 about an Everton U21 win on Friday look a little on the short side for a team that has lost five of their nine PL2 home matches, won three and drawn one. Ipswich, at 177/100, look good value to spring a minor upset at Goodison Park on Friday, given their superior recent form and firepower on their travels. Paul Tait has overseen Everton U21 since July 2022, a period in which his team have frequently rotated youth players to stay fresh for an ever-changing first-team picture. Everton’s pragmatic, transition-based approach has led them to invite pressure and try to hit teams on the break, which should suit Ipswich U21’s style.

Ipswich can be too positive for Everton to cope with

Ipswich are flying under a proactive, high-energy developmental approach. They are 5th in the PL2 standings with 38 points from 19 games, while Everton are 22nd with 22 points from the same amount of fixtures. The Tractor Boys press in numbers and are very positive on the ball, transitioning quickly from defence to attack, which could be too much for Everton to deal with here. Everton U21 have scored 14 goals in their nine PL2 home games, but they have been susceptible at the back, which is why they have lost five of those fixtures. Ademide Akarakiri has been their most prolific striker of late, scoring two of their last four goals, but Ipswich have more firepower. Ipswich U21 have won their last three away games and look well placed to extend that sequence at Everton’s expense.