Everton started the match in spectacular fashion, completely outclassing Manchester United in the opening 45 minutes. David Moyes’ side, buoyed by their recent good form, pressed high and capitalized on United’s defensive frailties. Their early attacking intent paid off in the 19th minute when Beto struck the opening goal. A poorly defended Jack Harrison corner led to chaos in the United box, and after multiple failed clearances, Beto pounced to send Goodison Park into celebration.
The Toffees doubled their advantage in the 37th minute through Abdoulaye Doucouré. The dynamic midfielder showcased his physicality by muscling Harry Maguire aside before reacting fastest to an Onana save from Harrison’s powerful shot. Everton’s dominance could have resulted in an even bigger halftime lead, but they failed to convert additional chances. Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United looked lifeless, failing to register a single shot on target in the first half.
United’s Second-Half Fightback: Fernandes and Ugarte Spark Revival
Recognizing his team’s dire situation, Amorim made crucial tactical changes in the second half, including the introduction of Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine winger injected pace and urgency into United’s attack, forcing Everton onto the back foot. The Red Devils finally found a breakthrough in the 72nd minute when Bruno Fernandes delivered a stunning free-kick past Jordan Pickford, who was caught out of position.
United’s resurgence continued, and in the 80th minute, Manuel Ugarte struck a thunderous shot from outside the box to level the score at 2-2. The Uruguayan midfielder capitalized on a poorly cleared Fernandes free-kick, blasting an unstoppable effort into the net. Everton, who had looked comfortable for much of the match, were suddenly rattled as United pushed for a late winner.
The Last-Minute VAR Controversy: Everton’s Denied Penalty
As the clock ticked into the final moments of stoppage time, the game took a dramatic turn. In the 96th minute, Everton launched one last attack. Idrissa Gana Gueye’s powerful shot forced a save from André Onana, but as Ashley Young attempted to follow up on the rebound, he was brought down in the box by Matthijs de Ligt. Referee Andy Madley immediately pointed to the penalty spot, sending the Everton fans into raptures.
However, after a lengthy VAR review, Madley was called to the pitchside monitor. To the shock of the home crowd, he overturned his initial decision, ruling that the challenge was not enough to warrant a penalty. The decision sparked outrage among Everton players and fans, with Moyes visibly frustrated on the touchline. United, having been given a massive reprieve, held on for the 2-2 draw.
David Moyes Left Fuming as United Escape Defeat
Speaking after the match, David Moyes expressed his disappointment at the late VAR decision. “I don’t understand how that’s not a penalty. Ashley Young was clearly impeded, and the referee initially saw it that way. VAR was meant to eliminate mistakes, but all it’s done is create more controversy,” the Everton boss said.
Despite the frustration, Moyes took pride in his team’s performance. “We dominated the first half and should have been out of sight. It’s disappointing to only come away with a point, but the players gave everything,” he added. Everton’s draw leaves them 12th in the Premier League table, while United remain in 15th, struggling to find consistency under Amorim.
Ruben Amorim Relieved After United’s Great Escape
For Ruben Amorim, the comeback was a much-needed morale boost after a difficult run of form. “We were poor in the first half, but I’m proud of how the team responded. Bruno [Fernandes] led by example, and Manuel [Ugarte] showed his quality with a fantastic goal,” Amorim said.
When asked about the overturned penalty decision, Amorim was diplomatic. “I haven’t seen the replay properly, but from what I saw live, it was a tough call. Sometimes these decisions go for you, sometimes against. Today, we were lucky.”
As the Premier League season progresses, both Everton and Manchester United will be looking to build on this result. For Everton, the frustration of a missed opportunity lingers, while United will take confidence from their spirited comeback, even if it came with a helping hand from VAR.
