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In a Premier League game in which Manchester United rallied from two goals down to share a 2-2 point with Everton, manager Ruben Amorim was blunt in his praise of his team’s play. Despite the comeback in the second half, Amorim labeled his team “soft” and was thoroughly displeased with their first half.
Manchester United’s game began on a weak note as Everton capitalized on slips in defense to score first. Beto opened the scoring for Everton, his fifth goal in four games, as United’s defense was unable to clear the ball effectively. Matters were worsened when Abdoulaye Doucoure doubled Everton’s advantage before halftime, following a muffed attempt by goalkeeper Andre Onana to deflect Beto’s shot.
Facing a 2-0 deficit at the break, Manchester United emerged in the second half with renewed determination. Captain Bruno Fernandes ignited the comeback with a well-placed free-kick, reducing the arrears. The momentum continued as Manuel Ugarte unleashed a powerful volley ten minutes from time, leveling the scoreline.
The later part of the game was tainted by controversy. Everton had been originally awarded a stoppage-time penalty after Harry Maguire was ruled to have tripped Ashley Young inside the penalty area. Later, however, a VAR review led the referee Andrew Madley to change his original ruling and much wrath from home fans. VAR, it has come to light from the Premier League now, advised on-field interpretation, citing no foul had occurred.
In his post-match press conference, Amorim was not afraid to put the blame on his team’s poor start. “We did not exist in the first half,” he bluntly stated. “The worst thing is that we are losing the ball without pressure and we are not doing what we have to do. We were soft.”
This result places Manchester United 15th on the Premier League table, behind Everton by three places. The draw, while as much an indication of the team’s solidity, also hinted at ongoing defensive frailties and inconsistency of output.
Everton manager David Moyes, with his former club to face, reacted dually after the game. Though impressed with his team’s first-half display, he was disappointed at not being able to keep it intact and the penalty reversal decision. “All eyes were on Everton manager David Moyes before kickoff against his former.” Reuters conveyed.
As Manchester United prepare to get back into their league programme, the burden is on Amorim to address the issues of his side. The hard-hitting assessment by the manager highlights the imperative for change as the team prepares to climb the table and regain the support of fans.
They could’ve lost