Everton beat Mexicans Cruz Azul in Junior Milk decider

Everton's players celebrate after their penalty shoot-out win in the Junior final

Everton clinched the Junior title at the Northern Ireland Milk Cup as they edged out Mexicans Cruz Azul in the penalty shoot-out.

Normal time failed to produce a goal at the Ballymena Showgrounds but Everton took the title by winning 5-4 in a tense shoot-out.

It was the Mexican club's second successive defeat in the junior final.

In contrast, the English outfit were winning their third Junior Milk Cup title in four years.

Edson Valerio had an early chance for the Mexicans but Everton goalkeeper Russell Griffiths produced a fine save.

Griffiths came to Everton's rescue again as he blocked an Andres Mellado effort and the keeper made further great saves to deny Rloger Solis and Mellado.

Randolfo Albert almost headed the Mexicans ahead with with five minutes of normal time remaining and at the other end George Newell nearly tapped in from close range after a corner.

The game went to penalties and George Newell's spot-kick sealed the win for the team from Merseyside.

Captain Jon Joe Kenny lifted the trophy as the Evertonians recorded their third Junior Milk cup victory in four years.