Synopsis
In a dramatic Premier League clash, Manchester United came from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Everton. Manuel Ugarte's late equalizer and Bruno Fernandes' stunning free-kick were pivotal in this thrilling match at Goodison Park.Key Takeaways
- Manchester United avoided a third straight Premier League defeat.
- Bruno Fernandes scored a spectacular free-kick.
- VAR overturned a late penalty decision for Everton.
- David Moyes has improved Everton's performance.
- Ugarte's return had a significant impact on United's attack.
Liverpool, Feb 22 (NationPress) A thrilling late equalizer from Manuel Ugarte allowed Manchester United to escape a third straight Premier League loss, as they rallied from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday. The Toffees controlled the match for large stretches, with Beto giving them the lead in the 19th minute. A clever header from Abdoulaye Doucoure extended their advantage just 14 minutes later, finishing off a parried shot from Jack Harrison.
Facing immense pressure, United initially struggled but began to show signs of recovery in the second half. Bruno Fernandes ignited hope for the visitors in the 70th minute, curling in a magnificent free-kick to reduce the margin. The United captain was not finished; just eight minutes later, he sent another ball into the box, which Ugarte skillfully volleyed past Jordan Pickford to equalize.
The encounter was filled with tension, with Everton seeking a third goal. Beto nearly secured his brace, but Andre Onana pulled off a remarkable save to thwart the striker. Everton's frustration boiled over in stoppage time when they were awarded a penalty after Harry Maguire tugged on Ashley Young, but a VAR review overturned the call, leaving the home side furious about the late twist.
Everton, who had shown strength under David Moyes, seemed destined for a vital win but currently sit 14th, with United close behind in 15th. United’s late fightback is something manager Ruben Amorim can build upon, with their upcoming match against relegation-threatened Ipswich Town presenting an opportunity to regain form.
Amorim implemented one change to his lineup from their previous match. After missing last weekend's narrow loss to Tottenham Hotspur, midfielder Manuel Ugarte returned to the starting eleven, pushing Alejandro Garnacho to the bench. The Portuguese coach had previously faced Everton in just his second match at the helm of the Red Devils, winning 4-0, but insisted that Saturday's game would be ‘entirely different’ from their last meeting.
And it indeed turned out to be so, with Everton delivering a significantly stronger performance under the recently appointed Moyes, who took over after Sean Dyche was dismissed as the club faced relegation threats. Under the guidance of the former Manchester United head coach, Everton has climbed to 14th place in the standings, sitting 13 points clear of the relegation zone.
