Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been quoted by BBC Live’s coverage of his side’s 2-1 win over Everton on Sunday – as saying that Goodison Park is a “difficult” place to go, praising Everton fans for getting behind their team.
In an unusual late kick-off on Sunday, Everton took the lead after a mistake from Casemiro. The Brazilian gifted possession to the Toffees, and the in-form Alex Iwobi curled a delightful effort into David De Gea’s top corner.
But that was as good as it got for Frank Lampard’s side. Like Casemiro, it was an experienced new signing in Everton’s midfield to give the ball away – this time, Idrissa Gana Gueye. Antony was put through, and he duly obliged.
Cristiano Ronaldo had replaced Anthony Martial in the first half, and it was the footballing legend that got the winner. Casemiro’s gorgeous pass saw Ronaldo slide his 700th club goal into the back of the net. The scoreline remained.
Speaking after the match, ten Hag was aware that it was a good win for his side. Everton came into the game, seven without loss. He described Goodison in nine words: “Goodison Park is difficult, the crowd get behind them.”
Ten Hag: Everton’s Goodison Park difficult place to go
After losing their first two games of the season, Manchester United are now showing improvement. That is five wins from their last six Premier League games, and they have propelled themselves into fifth place in the Premier League.
Sunday evening was a steely win against a much-improved Everton side. Lampard has also got his Everton side playing better; new signings integrating, centre-backs gelling, and Dom Calvert-Lewin is returning.
For a Sunday evening match, and with Everton taking the lead, it was certainly a tricky game. But ten Hag and United pulled through – a really good win for the Dutchman. He will be hoping for a better outing in Europe on Thursday.
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