EPL Match Recap - Everton v Manchester United
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 20: Nani of Manchester United in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Manchester United at Goodison Park on August 20, 2012 in Liverpool, England.
Manchester United were handed their first defeat in their season opener. Everton defeated Manchester United 1-0 at Goodison park.
Everton 1-0 Manchester United
It didn’t turn out to be the perfect start for last season’s runners-up when they travelled to Goodison Park to take on Everton. Recently, the Toffees have became a thorn in the side for Manchester United: last season’s 4-4 draw at Old Trafford cost them the season. As expected, Everton were solid on their home turf, which gave them a 1-0 win with a header from Marouane Fellaini in the 58th minute.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 20: Marouane Fellaini of Everton celebrates scoring the opening goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Manchester United at Goodison Park on August 20, 2012 in Liverpool, England.
Despite having 70% of the possession, United performed below their capability with fewer shots on goal.The first half was one of frustration for the visitors, with Everton controlling play and finding themselves with numerous opportunities to score. It was David De Gea’s remarkable reactions that prevented United conceding a minimum of three goals. The star of the match and lone goal scorer, the six foot four inch Belgian Fellaini provided the breakthrough for the home side with a solid header and a little help from United’s lackluster defense. Former Arsenal hotshot Robin van Persie was brought on in the 68th minute but he did not have any shots on goal. De Gea aside, the only other United player to impress was the newly signed Japanese midfielder Shinji Kagawa, who shone with his great movement and passes throughout the match.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 20: Shinji Kagawa of Manchester United in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Manchester United at Goodison Park on August 20, 2012 in Liverpool, England.
The win is Everton’s fourth win in 21 games against Manchester United at Goodison Park. For United, it was a disappointing season opener, one from which they can only hope to improve.
Upcoming Matches: Chelsea vs Reading (Thurs-12.15 AM)