Everton’s troubling home form continued as they fell to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Manchester United at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Benjamin Sesko’s second-half strike extended the Toffees’ winless run at their new stadium to six matches in the Premier League - seven in all competitions - as David Moyes’ side’s aspirations of European qualification sustained a blow.
Everton vs Man United match report
Both sides lacked any real quality in the first half, although United were probably the better side. The visitors went close to breaking the deadlock in the fourth minute when Matheus Cunha’s shot was blocked by team-mate Dallo. However, the loose ball dropped for Dallo, whose shot was partially saved by Toffees goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and James Tarkowski hacked clear on the goal-line.
Pickford was called into action five minutes later when he pushed away a cross-cum-shot from Diogo Dalot.
Everton had to wait until the 39th minute to register an effort on goal, with James Garner’s 35-yard free-kick well held by United keeper Senne Lammens.
The Toffees were much improved in the second half and spurned a big chance to break the deadlock within 30 seconds of the restart, with Harrison Armstrong’s shot well kept out by Lammens. Five minutes later, United threatened when Tarkowski could only partially clear a cross but Bryan Mbeumo blasted over the crossbar from close range.
The game started to open up and the breakthrough was coming, which went in the visitors’ favour. In one fell swoop, Matheus Cunha’s perfectly-weighted long pass picked out the run of Mbeumo and he teed-up substitute Sesko to finish with aplomb.
Everton did try to rally, with Michael Keane having a long-range effort tipped over the crossbar by Lammens. And although the Blues had several corners, they failed to make them count and Pickford had to make a late stop from Sesko when United mustered another counter.
Everton displayed signs of spirit and defensive resolve but ultimately lacked a cutting edge - and the home faithful have yet to see a victory since a 3-0 triumph over Nottingham Forest on 6 December.
Everton player ratings vs Man United.
5. Jarrad Branthwaite - 7
Generally solid in the first half, although lucky to escape a booking when tugging Amad's shirt. Tried to offer an outlet in the second half as a makeshift left-back. Photo: Jan Kruger
6. Idrissa Gana Gueye - 6
Scrapped away in the first half and had a shot blocked. Similar in the second period. | Getty Images
7. Tim Iroegbunam - 6
Put himself about in the first half but a couple of passes went astray. Continued to battle away after the break and subbed in the 79th minute. | Getty Images
8. Iliman Ndiaye - 6
Went on a couple of runs and battled away but didn't see enough of the ball in the first half. More of a threat in the second half but still been much better. | Getty Images