A goal early in the second half proved the difference and the Sky Blues could not find a leveller for the 40,000 crowd.

Despite the narrow loss, Lavicka believes his team will be all the better for the experience.

"We played compact in defence and created some good moments in attack but they punished us early in the second half, we made some mistake and they scored," Lavicka said.

"It's a very good experience for all of us and a great present for Sydney FC fans as well. I am happy to be playing this game as there are not many opportunities to play against a good international team, which Everton is.'

Another member of the camp far from despondent was skipper Terry McFlynn .

"Intensity wise it was great for us to put ourselves against a premier league team to see where we sit in the spectrum of football," he said.

"Both sides are in the pre-season. It's about fitness; it's about preparation for our season so I think it was a good outcome for both sides tonight."