In their pursuit of a top-four finish in the Premier League, Manchester United strolled to a 2-0 victory against Everton thanks to an explosive first-half display that was too much for the visitors. With the victory, they are now six points ahead of Tottenham in fifth place and in a good position to qualify for the Champions League the following year.
An unprecedented first half
The first half of United’s performance was one for the history books. The team took 21 shots, which is a club record for an opening session since Opta started tracking this information in 2003. The home team had more quality scoring opportunities in the first half than some teams do in the entire game, but they couldn’t break the score until Scott McTominay’s goal near the hour mark. With the quantity of United’s shots on goal, Everton custodian Jordan Pickford put on an excellent performance that helped to keep the score reasonable.
Man United's xG is already at 2.30 with just 30 minutes gone vs Everton #MUNEVE (@InfogolApp) pic.twitter.com/evPaEFy5or
— James Nalton (@JDNalton) April 8, 2023
Defense flaws for Everton
Ben Godfrey was thought to be the weak link in the Everton defence, which United had little trouble hitting long balls over. During halftime, he was removed by his manager Sean Dyche and Vitalii Mykolenko took his place. Yet, Michael Keane and Seamus Coleman occasionally had trouble as well, indicating that there may have been a tactical problem.
Crucial Moments in the Second Half
Even though Everton played considerably better in the second half, they were unable to get back into the game. With Marcus Rashford nearby, Coleman made a personal error that led to the second goal, which gave the home team the victory. Anthony Martial, a substitute, scored it. One of the loudest applause of the day greeted Christian Eriksen’s entrance after missing the entire month of January due to an ankle ailment.
"Glazers Out" banners at Old Trafford ahead of the game vs Everton. pic.twitter.com/IQbTcVe4K6
— James Nalton (@JDNalton) April 8, 2023
Importance of Champions League Qualification
For United to finish in the top four and advance to the Champions League for the following season, the victory is essential. A position among Europe’s elite will only be beneficial for the club’s valuation and help retain its status as one of the top clubs in the world, especially since the Glazer family is apparently looking to sell the club. Although there have been and will continue to be demonstrations against the club’s present owners, both United and Everton continue to support their team and club’s players and personnel.
Concerned about Rashford’s Injuries
From a United perspective, the one concern from today’s game might be Rashford’s exit later in the second half due to what appeared to be a groyne injury. It is unknown how long he will be sidelined, but United may suffer as a result of his absence as the season enters its final stretch.