Manchester United had another afternoon to forget as they dropped points away to Everton on Saturday.
It was a clash where the Red Devils once again lacked spirit, composure and a basic game plan, while the win is a massive boost for the Toffees’ hopes of survival.
It was a first half where both teams looked nervous and misplaced too many passes. However, United started the better and forced Jordan Pickford into two saves, while Michael Keane blocked Cristiano Ronaldo’s shot from a dangerous area.
But the momentum swung midway through the half with Everton beginning to assert themselves, before Anthony Gordon grabbed the only goal on 27 minutes when his effort from the edge of the box deflected off Harry Maguire and gave David De Gea no chance in the away goal.
Buoyed by the goal, Everton remained on top and tested De Gea with efforts from Keane and Richarlison before the break.
Everton continued that in the second half, with Ben Godfrey having a header that went just over.
But as the hosts dropped deeper, United saw more of the ball and created chances through Paul Pogba’s strike from distance and a double opportunity for Aaron Wan-Bissaka at the back post, one of which was saved and the other went over.
Despite that, Everton dealt with United’s chances well and defended diligently, limiting the Red Devils to only a handful of efforts.
Their best of the second half came in injury-time, when Ronaldo fired at goal, but Pickford got a big hand to the ball and kept it out. The full-time whistle went soon after and Everton grabbed a massive three points.
Here’s how we rated the players at Goodison Park...
1. David De Gea- 5
Made two decent saves in the first period, but had little to do in the second half. De Gea’s kicking was a little better than it’s been in recent weeks.
2. Aaron Wan-Bissaka- 6
Demonstrated some good moments defensively, but was also beaten by Richarlison on a few occasions. The full-back could have applied more pressure in the build-up to Gordon’s goal.
3. Victor Lindelof- 4
Had an off day on Merseyside and found the physical battle difficult against an out-of-form Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Lindelof’s passing was also sloppy, although that did improve slightly after the break.
4. Harry Maguire- 4
Deflected Gordon’s shot en route to goal, although it would be harsh to crictise United’s No.5 for that. The centre-back’s passing was awkward and he struggled to deal with Everton’s pressing.