Everton 2 Manchester United 2

After last week’s win over Ipswich, I went to the Manchester United Supporters Club in Gozo with cautious optimism. Although the victory was encouraging, I still had reservations, and today’s match did little to ease them. 

United started slowly again. The build-up from the back lacked urgency and tempo. And after three league matches, I’m still not convinced this back four gives Carrick what he needs. 

As the first half went on, United gradually grew into the game. Early in the second half, Mbeumo produced a moment of real quality, driving at the Everton defence and finishing calmly to give United the lead. Confidence lifted, and for a while, we played some of our best football of the afternoon. However, the same defensive issues soon reappeared. 

Everton’s equaliser – Luke Shaw was caught out of position once again. And the Everton attacker had far too much space to control the ball and finish, with no close marking. Just when it seemed United had grabbed all three points, with substitute Šeško finding the net with a powerful header and only two minutes of normal time left, calamity.

United failed to manage the closing stages properly, and Everton struck back with a late equaliser. While many will point to the quality of the finish, United should never have allowed the opportunity to develop. Better game management should have seen the 3 points secured. 

At full time, it felt like two points dropped. More worryingly, United have now conceded two goals in each of their opening three Premier League matches, underlining the defensive problems Carrick must address if our beloved club is to challenge for a top-four finish. 

The next three matches are now crucial. United begin their Champions League campaign at Old Trafford on Thursday against opponents they should be expected to beat. That’s followed by next Sunday’s Manchester derby against City. These fixtures represent a real opportunity to build confidence, but could just as easily increase the pressure…

Numquam Moribimur.