David Unsworth hailed Everton Under-23s’ performance in the 2-2 draw at Chelsea as one of their best of the season.
The young Blues needed to win at Aldershot’s EBB Stadium to clinch the Premier League 2 crown but the point means they can now only be denied top spot on goal difference.
Unsworth’s charges could be confirmed as champions if second-placed Manchester City fail to win at Liverpool on Monday.
Goals from Bassala Sambou and Liam Walsh earned the point in Hampshire and Unsworth told evertontv: “It was a fantastic performance, one of our best of the season against a really good Chelsea team.