Everton 2-2 Manchester United: Ugarte finishes off late comeback

Manuel Ugarte’s first Manchester United goal finished off a comeback to salvage a 2-2 draw against Everton at Goodison Park.

The Uruguayan’s 80th-minute volley ensured United avoided a third consecutive defeat in the Premier League.

It had looked like a comfortable afternoon for the Toffees. Beto had fired them in front early in the first half, latching onto Abdoulaye Doucoure’s nod down to send a bouncing volley over Andre Onana’s outstretched arm.

Doucoure then doubled their lead shortly after with a close-range header. Jack Harrison’s low drive was parried into the air by Onana, with the Malian on hand to nod it in.

Bruno Fernandes pulled one back with a stunning free-kick in the 72nd minute, which was United’s first shot on target of the game, and almost scored a late winner, though he was denied by Jordan Pickford.

Everton, meanwhile, thought they had a chance to win it in stoppage time as Ashley Young was awarded a penalty after a tug by Harry Maguire, but the decision was overturned following a VAR review.

David Moyes’ side moved up to 12th in the table, though remain one point above United, who stay 15th on 30 points.

A spirited second-half comeback earns us a point on the road #MUFC || #EVEMUN

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 22, 2025

Data Debrief: Leaving it late

It is the first time the Red Devils have avoided defeat when trailing by two or more goals in the Premier League since December 2023 (a 3-2 win over Aston Villa), and the first time away from home since November 2020 (3-2 v Southampton).

Fernandes led the charge for his team – he has now had a hand in more Premier League goals against Everton (11 – six goals, five assists in 11 appearances) than against any other side.

While Moyes will be disappointed not to have won a third straight game against his former team, Everton did extend their unbeaten streak to six games in the Premier League.

However, Everton have now failed to win 22 Premier League games in which they have had a 2+ goal lead (D16 L6). Only Southampton (25) have failed to win more games in the competition’s history.