The 4-1 victory for Villa in the first leg at Goodison Park last Tuesday proved more than enough in the end, and the Midlands youngsters were deserved champions - their first Youth Cup title for 22 years.

Everton, however, put in a thoroughly spirited performance at Villa Park with England Under-17 star striker Wayne Rooney looking lively throughout. The 16 year old hit the bar in the first half, and deservedly won the Player of the Match award.

But the Villa defence - and goalkeeper Wayne Henderson in particular - played well and they always looked dangerous on the break, with Stefan Moore - a two goal hero from the first leg - a constant threat, and Peter Hynes impressing on the right wing.

Everton's goal came too late to enable them to seriously threaten Villa's lead. After 72 minutes, Liam Ridgewell who had performed impeccably up to that point, tried to play the ball out of defence but instead gifted a chance to Scott Brown who finished smartly from inside the box.

Carney then went close as Everton maintained the pressure, but they ran out of steam in the closing minutes, and Villa and their manager Tony McAndrew had their victory.

"I'm so proud of the lads", said McAndrew, "but the Everton boys did very well. We were a little bit too negative today but we're absolutely delighted. These kids have been fantastic, and the Club is so proud of them."

Everton boss Colin Harvey was generous in defeat. "We gave ourselves too much to do after the first leg, but full credit to Aston Villa who deserved their victory."