In the midday kickoff, Manchester United defeated Everton 2-0 in a much-needed win, but head coach Erik ten Hag saw very little good come from the outcome.
Manchester United returned to winning ways in the Premier League following Everton’s acquiescence.
Alejandro Garnacho, who was taken down in the box by James Tarkowski and Ben Godfrey, won both of the first-half spot-kicks, setting up the triumph. Bruno Fernandes scored the first goal on minute twelve, while Marcus Rashford scored the second goal just nine minutes before halftime.
Everton, who had the better start, had opportunities but was unable to capitalise on them as they suffered another setback in their survival mission. Here are the things Erik ten Hag did well and poorly as United came away with a much-needed but unimpressive victory.
Terrible beginning
Having a 2-0 lead after thirty-six minutes would indicate that United had gotten off to a flying start against a struggling team. Not at all.
United was terrible for the first ten minutes and didn’t play much better after that. They seemed to be half asleep and frequently lost control. At a kid’s birthday party, Casemiro in particular didn’t seem to be able to pass the parcel.
Everton were lively in contrast, but thankfully for United, the Blues were utterly helpless in the closing third until grabbing the opportunity and completely dominating the game with some careless challenges that resulted in both of the first-half penalties.
The second half was a non-event, with the Toffees losing their challenge and confidence. On this occasion, United got away with their poor start, but they won’t have the same luck the next Saturday when they play the other Merseyside club in the FA Cup.
Defence needs to be updated.
As has been the case all season, even if United turned things around after taking the lead, they still let up far too many opportunities for Ten Hag’s satisfaction. There were many fearless blocks and desperate attempts. However, at this point, it merely covers up the flaws in a team that frequently appears fragmented.
The seasoned Casemiro falls short in protecting a defence that is aware it lacks speed and must sit deep as a result. If Ten Hag is given the opportunity, this is only one of several problems he needs to take care of this summer.
Garnacho shines in the shadows.
Garnacho has been one of the few bright spots in a terrible season, and he once again excelled against Everton.
Although he did not replicate the overhead kick he scored in the rematch at Goodison, the Argentine’s cunning and straight running were equally menacing.
Everton were genuinely terrified every time he got the ball, and on two raids, Tarkowski and Godfrey made clumsy foul actions that cost them spot penalties.
Even though Ten Hag has earned a lot of flack for this inconsistent season, he should be commended for drawing the best play from the 19-year-old, who had the opportunity to score a third early in the second half but missed from an angle. The young player should have scored, but in the last ten minutes, he was replaced, and at least he received a standing ovation.
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