Manchester United beat Everton 3-0 in a Premier League match at Goodison Park last Sunday. The win meant that United is sixth in the league table with 24 points from 13 matches. They have now also won five of their last six league matches, which makes them one of the in-form teams in England.
Manchester United’s forwards scored goals in the match
United’s forwards scored goals against Everton to guide their team to victory. Alejandro Garnacho set the ball rolling with a wonderful acrobatic volley in the third minute to put his side ahead. Bruno Fernandes then combined twice with Anthony Martial for United’s two other goals.
It was a refreshing change for the Red Devils, whose forwards have found it difficult to find the net this season. It was a clinical performance by United, although they had to withstand an onslaught by Everton for a certain period of time in the first half.
Manchester United’s defenders kept playing long balls to an onrushing Marcus Rashford repeatedly to launch their attacks against Everton. Their defenders’ ability to play forward passes well was a stand-out feature in the match. Moreover, United’s passing against Everton’s high-press at times was also good and helped them deal with it.
In addition to that, a 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, who started alongside Scott McTominay in the midfield as the double pivot, came up with a refreshingly good performance in his debut for the senior team. He frequently dropped back and came up with vital interceptions and clearances to help United endure Everton’s onslaught in the first half.
Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof were also solid in the match with their marking of the opposition forwards and Diogo Dalot’s ability to play probing crosses from the right flank came to the fore again.
Some tough matches ahead for Manchester United
Almost every team dreads going to the St. James’ Park these days, as Newcastle United is a very dangerous side while playing at home. They have beaten teams like Arsenal, PSG and Manchester City at home this season, and almost did the same to Liverpool.
United’s next match is against the Magpies away, and should keep Erik ten Hag considerably worried. They will then face Chelsea and Liverpool, both of which could turn out to be really tricky fixtures. United should be targeting a top-four finish at the moment and it is imperative for them to do reasonably well in their next few matches for that.
Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool are a notch above the rest of the teams in the league and should account for the top three slots, in no particular order. Hence, United will have to realistically aim for the fourth spot. However, even for that, they will have to contend with the likes of Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle.
There is still a long way to go in the season and ten Hag’s men will have to continue the good work. Their potential early exit from the UEFA Champions league might enable them to focus on the Premier League fully.