Ajani Burchall’s return to the Aston Villa’s Under-18 Premier League team did not go as planned as their run in the Cup ended with a 3-1 defeat at Crystal Palace.
The hosts raced into an early lead inside the first minute and established a 3-0 advantage before the break.
Chisom Afoka reduced the arrears prior to half-time to give Aston Villa hope, but they were unable to force a turnaround after the restart.
Burchall who has been out injured for several weeks made an appearance in the match coming off the bench in the 72nd minute.
Villa exited the competition in the group stages having previously lost to Manchester City and Liverpool.