Winger Crossley’s emphatic effort 20 minutes from time handed the Magpies a share of the spoils at Finch Farm, after Josh Stewart’s early own goal had given the Toffees the lead.

The hosts went ahead just eight minutes in, when Stewart inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Halid Djankpata.

And United stopper Max Thompson had a busy first period as he helped to keep out further Everton efforts, including one from Sam Coughlan which he managed to divert onto the woodwork.

After the break, leading goalscorer Michael Ndiweni saw a goal chalked off for offside but ten minutes later, 17-year-old Crossley – who netted on his first appearance for United’s under-23 side at Harrogate Town in pre-season – found the target, blasting home a fine effort to bring his side level.

The result leaves Newcastle in tenth place in the Under-18 Premier League, and potentially just one win off a place in the top four.

Newcastle United Under-18s: Max Thompson, Josh Stewart, Beau Beresford, Ellis Stanton, Josh Nicholson, Harry Barclay, Callum McNally (Nathan Nkunku 62), Jamie Miley, Michael Ndiweni, James Huntley, Kyle Crossley.

Subs not used: Shaun Mavididi, Nathan Robertson, Steven Bessent, Joel Green.