Manchester United were forced to get a victory on the road after Manchester City rescued three points at home on Saturday. It was not going to be easy leaving Everton with three points.
Just four minutes into the game, Everton, in a four versus three counter attack, opened their scoresheet. James McCarthy took control into his own hands and finished the counter attack all by himself after taking United defenders inside the box and then beating David De Gea.
Three minutes later, Manchester United had the equalizer but could not finish. Marouane Fellaini stole the ball in the back line and was pressured by another defender. He was then forced to finish outside the box. As Tim Howard was coming out, Fellaini shanked the ball way over the goal.
Everton found their second goal of the game on a wonderful set piece corner kick to the first post and a magnificent finish by John Stones to second post. First goal in the Premier League by this young defender.
Louis Van Gaal had no other option but to attack more and subbed out Fellaini at half and added another striker into the pitch. Radamel Falcao was given the opportunity to step onto the field. Manchester United was dominating in ball possession but could not find a way to be a threat.
On the 74th minute, Everton scored their third goal to seal the victory. Ross Barkley played a ball over the top as United’s defense was coming out, leaving Romelu Lukaku off. The United defense did not see Kevin Mirallas coming in from the left side in inside position and left him open one versus one against their goalkeeper. Mirallas sealed the victory by beating De Gea to first post.
With this defeat, Manchester United drops to fourth place and are behind Manchester City and Arsenal by two points. Manchester United will receive West Bromwhic Albion at Old Trafford next weekend for a great opportunity to forget about this game.
