By Andy Lance
August 1 2002

It was the first chance for City fans to see the new team at the Deva Stadium last nite (Wednesday). Everton went away with a 1-0 victory over Mark Wright's men.

31st July - 7:45 Kick Off

Chester City 0 - 1 Everton XI

ChesterW.Brown, Hatswell, Lancaster, Ruffer, McIntyre, Davies, Kelly, Blackburn, Brodie, Twiss, Beesley.

EvertonSimonson, O'Hanlon, Naysmith, Clarke, Pilkington, K.Southern, Brown, Carney, Symes, Watson, McLoed.

Everton brought a team which included only 5 players with first team experience to the Deva, but still came away with a 1-0 victory in a hard thought game. Chester struggled in the first half and were uncomftable defending crosses and corners.

The only goal of the game came from a deflected shot by Peter Clarke that City keeper Wayne Brown got a glove to but failed to stop it crossing the line

Chester created a well worked chance near the end of the half which ended with a Steve Brodie volley which Simonson was equal to. Brodie was impressive thoughout along with Twiss, Ruffer and McIntye who also had good performances.

In the second half Chester started to perform and almost took the lead when Micheal Twiss rounded the keeper but saw his shot hit the left upright.

Last night was also the first chance for the Chester support to see ex Liverpool defender Steve Harkness in action. The 30 year old was met by jeers from the Everton section of the ground and cheers from the north terrace.

The 4 division gap was plain to see in the first half but Chester put in a sterling performance in the second and optimism is still high going into the final 5 pre season friendlies.