A humiliating defeat at Anfield meant that Everton had to play at Old Trafford with desire and reassure their fans. Ronaldo Koeman’s men looked like they were set-up to counter after soaking pressure and that was working well. A corner was handled horribly by United and Phil Jagielka capitalised upon it to get the touch after stretching that would see the ball cross the goal-line.
Everton held on pretty well clearing away waves of United attacks until Ashley Williams handled Shaw’s shot in the penalty area and was sent off, giving United and Zlatan the perfect opportunity to equalise and that wasn’t wasted. The game finished 1-1, harsh on Everton but that’s football. Here’s how the Blues have been rated:-
GK: Joel Robles – 7/10
Made two impressive first half saves and made up for his poor performance in Anfield.
RB : Mason Holgate – 6/10
Matched Rashford toe to toe and manned up big time to prevent Everton’s right-flank from being exposed. He has much more to learn but he’s certainly developing well.
CB : Phil Jagielka – 7/10
A heroic interception to deny Rashford from getting away and his stretched effort saw him give Everton the early lead which eventually made them settle in the game and play according to their preparation. A captain’s delightful performance!
CB : Ashley Williams – 6/10
He was resolute and aggressive but stupid at the end to handle the ball. Cost his side 2 vital away points.
LB : Leighton Baines – 6/10
His vision threatened to open up United and he was decent enough defensive wise. Nothing extra-ordinary but effective and a disciplined performance.
CM : Gareth Barry – 5.5/10
Not really into the game, made harsh tackles but at times a few positive interceptions as well.
CM : Tom Davies – 5/10
He was hardly involved in the game.
CM : Idrissa Gana Gueye – 6/10
Tried hard to keep United’s midfield at bay and took up good positions as well. He didn’t get the chance to gain control in the game like he usually does but he was good enough time and again.
LW : Kevin Mirallas – 6/10
Buzzed around United and tried time and again but United’s defence was too tough enough for him.
RW : Ross Barkley – 7/10
Tried valiantly to pull something off and served as an attacking outlet for Everton at every given opportunity. He has to maintain some bit of a consistency and discipline with critics swarming around him.
Romelu Lukaku – 5.5/10
He was more involved than he was at the derby but he got outclassed by Rojo and Bailly.
