Blackpool secured an impressive comeback victory over Aston Villa’s Under-21 team, while Port Vale delivered a stunning performance to defeat Manchester City 5-0 in Tuesday’s EFL Trophy fixtures.
Everton suffered a late defeat away to Shrewsbury Town, but Arsenal’s young side avoided another disappointing result for Premier League academies by recovering from a goal down to beat AFC Wimbledon.
Blackpool Fight Back to Defeat Aston Villa 3-2
Blackpool came from behind to claim a 3-2 victory against Aston Villa’s youngsters at Bloomfield Road, thanks to goals from Zac Ashworth, Jerry Yates and Jordan Brown.
Villa initially looked set for a positive result when Fletcher Boyd opened the scoring in the 29th minute. However, Blackpool responded strongly, with Ashworth, Yates and Brown finding the net to turn the match around.
Markie Meade scored a late consolation for Villa during stoppage time, but it was not enough to prevent defeat.
The result leaves Blackpool second in Northern Group B, while Aston Villa remain at the bottom without a single point.
Port Vale Hand Manchester City a Heavy Defeat
Port Vale produced one of the night’s biggest surprises, beating Manchester City 5-0 despite their position near the bottom of League Two.
The hosts established control early, scoring four times within the opening 34 minutes. Maleace Asamoah started the scoring, followed by goals from Jaheim Headley, Max Watters, Lewis Montsma and Keyrol Figueroa.
The convincing win puts Port Vale at the top of Northern Group D with seven points, while Manchester City sit third in the standings.
Vale manager Jon Brady expressed his satisfaction with the performance, praising his team’s attacking approach and their ability to score five goals in a competitive fixture.
Arsenal Produce Late Comeback Against AFC Wimbledon
Arsenal’s youngsters secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over AFC Wimbledon after scoring twice in the closing stages.
Wimbledon, a League One side, took the lead through Callum Maycock and looked capable of holding on for a positive result. However, Arsenal found another gear during the final 18 minutes.
Substitute Evan Mooney equalised just five minutes after entering the match, giving the visitors renewed hope. Emerson Nwaneri then scored with only three minutes remaining to complete the turnaround and secure all three points.
The victory places Arsenal at the top of Southern Group F with six points, while Wimbledon occupy second place.
Shrewsbury Score Late to Defeat Everton
Everton’s difficult EFL Trophy campaign continued with a 2-1 defeat against Shrewsbury Town, who secured victory with a stoppage-time goal.
Michael Golding put Shrewsbury ahead before Omari Benjamin restored parity for Everton. The match appeared to be heading towards a draw until Jeval Thompson-McKenzie struck in the second minute of added time.
The late winner earned Shrewsbury all three points and left Everton still searching for their first point in Northern Group E.
Shrewsbury manager Gavin Cowan praised his team’s performance, highlighting the players’ determination and describing the result as a reflection of the club’s quality.
EFL Trophy Results Highlight a Night of Surprises
Tuesday’s EFL Trophy action delivered contrasting fortunes for the participating clubs. Blackpool demonstrated their resilience with a comeback against Aston Villa, while Port Vale’s five-goal demolition of Manchester City stood out as one of the most remarkable results of the evening.
Arsenal also showed determination by overturning their deficit against Wimbledon, whereas Everton were left disappointed after conceding a decisive late goal at Shrewsbury.
With the group standings beginning to take shape, the results could prove important as teams continue their push for progression in the competition.
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