Manchester United’s strong run of form hit something of a stumbling block earlier today as they were held to an entertaining 1-1 draw against Everton at Old Trafford.
Leighton Baines’ cross was turned into his own net by Victor Lindelof who had one of his worst performances in a Manchester United shirt. As the game drew on there was no way of getting around the fact that the Toffees were still confident, but United were growing minute by minute. They seem to have found a rhythm in the wake of their wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City, and while that may not be enough to help them surge into the top four, it’s certainly a start.
A fascinating clash
Red Devils youngster Mason Greenwood was the man who got them out of trouble with a lovely equaliser that ensured United’s form as of late continued to bolster Solskjaer’s momentum as manager.
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reacted to the draw, focusing especially on youngster Mason Greenwood.
“You wanted the ball to drop to Mason, because he’s so calm and composed – when he gets chances, he takes them.
“It is just so natural for him, he knows what to do. If you open or get close, he bends it round you. Too many chances are missed in general, or strikers rush the finish, but the best have that extra half second, and he does.”
A new era?
Everton caretaker boss Duncan Ferguson couldn’t help but praise his side.
“It was a fantastic performance,” said Ferguson. “We couldn’t hang on but I can’t complain and I’m delighted with a point.
“The players seem to be motivated. They are in a perilous position and understand that – they have to fight for the shirt and that’s what I’m doing. They should have been doing it all season. I’ve managed to galvanise them and push them on.”
Manchester United will host Colchester United in their League Cup quarter-final next week, as they attempt to move a step closer towards winning a piece of silverware. Everton, on the other hand, will also try and reach the final four of the competition when they host Leicester City – meaning that these two sides could meet yet again in the not so distant future.
Match Report
Manchester United: De Gea (6), Shaw (7), Maguire (7.5), Lindelof (5.5), Wan-Bissaka (7), Fred (7), McTominay (8), Rashford (7), Lingard (6), James (7), Martial (6.5), Greenwood (7), Mata (6)
Everton: Pickford (7), Coleman (7), Keane (6.5), Mina (6.5), Digne (6.5), Iwobi (6.5), Davies (6.5), Holgate (7), Bernard (6.5), Richarlison (6.5), Calvert-Lewin (7), Baines (6.5), Niasse (6), Kean (5.5)
Referee: Michael Oliver
Goals: Greenwood :: Lindelof OG
Yellow Cards: Lindelof, Davies, Richarlison
Red Cards: N/A
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