- Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford’s successful penalties secured three points for Man United.
- Manchester United move closer to the top four after overcoming a wasteful Everton side.
- Erik ten Hag’s side secures a home win, although not at their best, doing enough to clinch the victory.
Manchester United secured a 2-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford, with penalties from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford earning them three crucial points.
Despite not being at their best, Manchester United did enough to pick up a home win against Everton. Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford scored from the penalty spot, securing a 2-0 victory for the Red Devils.
Man United successfully held on to their lead in the second half, securing an important but uninspiring 2-0 victory against Everton. The Red Devils are pushing closer to the top four as they aim for Champions League qualification.
How the game unfolded
Despite a bright start from Everton, who applied early pressure with Ben Godfrey coming close to scoring in the first two minutes, Manchester United managed to overcome their recent struggles and secure a crucial 2-0 victory at Old Trafford.
Despite Everton’s early pressure, they conceded a penalty in the 10th minute when James Tarkowski fouled Alejandro Garnacho. Bruno Fernandes calmly converted the spot-kick, giving Manchester United the lead with a well-placed shot beyond Jordan Pickford’s reach.
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Dwight McNeil came close to an immediate response for Everton, unleashing a volley that narrowly missed Andre Onana’s right post. James Garner, facing his former club, had a powerful long-range strike well saved ten minutes later as the visitors looked to level the score.
Bruno Fernandes continued to be influential for United, testing Jordan Pickford with a powerful free-kick that the Everton goalkeeper matched with a solid save. On the flip side, Dwight McNeil, who had been lively for Everton, narrowly missed the target with an effort from the edge of the box.
Everton found themselves in trouble once more as Alejandro Garnacho danced through their defense, only to be brought down by Ben Godfrey in the box. Marcus Rashford stepped up to take the penalty and calmly placed the ball into the bottom corner, extending Manchester United’s lead.
Alejandro Garnacho remained a constant threat for Everton in the second half, creating opportunities for himself. He fired a shot over the crossbar from a tight angle, and shortly after, Abdoulaye Doucoure had a chance inside the Manchester United penalty area, but his near-post strike was comfortably handled by goalkeeper Andre Onana.
Bruno Fernandes continued to threaten Everton’s goal, testing Jordan Pickford with a well-placed effort towards the far post. Pickford managed to tip the shot just wide. The resulting corner created a scramble in the six-yard box, with Victor Lindelof attempting to poke the ball goalward, but the Swedish defender couldn’t get it past Pickford.
In the closing stages at Old Trafford, substitute Lewis Dobbin delivered a tempting ball across the six-yard box for Everton, but an unfortunate Dominic Calvert-Lewin couldn’t capitalize on the opportunity as the ball narrowly passed his outstretched leg.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Casemiro both missed headed opportunities in the closing moments, leaving Manchester United to secure a crucial two-goal victory at Old Trafford.
Man United player ratings
GK: Andre Onana – 7/10 – Should have been tested more given Everton’s frequent pressure, but the Cameroonian stood firm against the shots he faced.
RB: Diogo Dalot – 6/10 – Challenged by McNeil’s effective movements, put in a passable display.
CB: Raphael Varane – 8/10 – Made a crucial block just before half-time and showcased a classy performance despite United’s defensive challenges.
CB: Jonny Evans – 7/10 – Solid against Beto, although not heavily tested by the striker.
LB: Victor Lindelof – 6/10 – Not entirely comfortable in the left-back role, but a more convincing display compared to recent games.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo – 7/10 – Another mature performance from the 18-year-old in the midfield.
CM: Casemiro – 6/10 – Struggled with passing in the first half but improved in the second period.
RM: Alejandro Garnacho – 7/10 – Displayed electric feet, causing problems for Everton’s defenders and winning two penalties in the first half.
AM: Scott McTominay – 6/10 – Quiet outing just off Fernandes, not heavily involved in the final third.
LM: Marcus Rashford – 7/10 – Scored a penalty and used his pace effectively to stretch Everton’s defense.
ST: Bruno Fernandes – 8/10 – Led the line effectively, showcasing leadership and orchestrating his side’s best moments, also grabbing a goal.
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