Mark Bower's Bradford City comeback lasted only an hour as the reserves were beaten 3-1 by title-chasing Everton at Widnes last night.

The young centre half has been on loan with York City and only returned to the club yesterday. But his game ended abruptly when he landed awkwardly and had to be carried off on a stretcher after twisting an ankle.

Walter Kidd's side played some excellent football in the first half, with Craig Fishlock particularly impressive with his long passes from midfield. He had City's first proper effort with a 25-yarder which flew just wide of Steve Simonsen's goal.

Kevin McLeod headed over for the home side before they took the lead in the 41st minute. Nick Chadwick drew Jon Worsnop from his line before slipping the ball under the Bantams keeper.

Early in the second half Fishlock, who had been limping, was replaced by Adam Hardy. But straight away, Everton increased their advantage when Chadwick struck again with a thumping header. Phil Jevons could have made it three from the restart but Worsnop brought off a fine save.

Morgan replaced Bower and City kept pressing forward, showing determination which was lacking a week earlier in the wild 6-4 loss at Hillsborough and they were duly rewarded on 71 minutes when Keith Brodie crossed from the right, Simonsen fumbled and Dean Saunders rifled home.

Four minutes later Everton's two-goal advantage was restored when a midfield mix-up allowed Chadwick in for his hat-trick. The win lifted Everton back to the top of the FA Premier Reserve League (North) table, two points clear of Sunderland who play their final match against Leeds tomorrow.

Everton: Simonsen, Hibbert, Naysmith, O'Hanlon, Pilkington, Southern (Curran), Valentine, McKay, Jevons, Chadwick, McLeod. Subs (not used): Kearney, Hogg, Degn.

City: Worsnop, Brodie, Emanuel, Kerr, Bower (Morgan), Locke, Lee, Fishlock (Hardy) Saunders, Ongala, Grant. Subs (not used): Jones, McGahey, Lo Piccolo.