Everton 1-1 Manchester United: Instant Reaction | War

Everton - Manchester United was a match between two clubs angling for a European place, and it was a match defined by high profile mistakes. The Blues really did play well in several different stretches, but as much as they benefited from a David De Gea howler, they were also undone by more questionable Jordan Pickford positioning.

More than anything, this was a scrap. There were 7 yellow cards in total, and a near-brawl when Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Tom Davies got fed up with the rough treatment of their teammate Richarlison. The Brazilian picked up several knocks, but the worst injury was to Seamus Coleman, who had to be replaced in the first half.

In previous eras, the Blues may have folded like a cheap suit after giving up the equalizer to Bruno Fernandes. Under Ancelotti, though, they held their nerve, and continued to create chance after chance, particularly from set pieces. Leighton Baines enjoyed a throwback game, both defensively and in attack. Class, as they say, is permanent.

The truth is, Don Carlo’s Everton will think they could have gotten more from this match, and they wouldn’t be wrong. For all of the wages that Manchester United pay out, they have a soft underbelly.

No matter. A point is a point. Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to be dominant, and is only four goals off the golden boot lead. Andre Gomes nearly went 90, and was superb. These are pretty good times at Goodison Park, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Everton ahead of United at the end of the season.