03/08/2025 95comments  |  Jump to last
Manchester Utd 2 - 2 Everton

Everton approach the final game of the Premier League Summer Series in Atlanta on Sunday night, hoping to prevent Manchester Utd winning the trophy.

No surprises in the Everton line-up as David Moyes sticks with his tried if not so trusted group of senior players, spurning any new signings and young pretenders, while a couple of high-profile and very expensive new stars feature for Man Utd.

Everton played all in Blue and kicked things off but the game quickly descended into walking football. Alcaraz was called for tackling Shaw around the neck and the Mancs built their first attack, Cunha shooting across goal. Ndiaye was fouled high up and Garner tried one from 35 yards that was going inside the post, parried out to O'Brien who hit the other post when it looked easier to score.

Iroegbunam got past his man and crossed but straight to Bayindir with Beto loitering without intent.  Iroegbunam had a great run at Yorro and stole the ball off him but then lost it. Everton had had the better start but without taking full advantage. 

Beto broke a year early to take a good forward ball from O'Brien and round the keeper to finish but he was flagged offside. At the other end, Cunha's shot was blocked away.  Amad fell to ground as soon as Trakowski handed him off and Man Utd were gifted a soft penalty and Fernandes sent Pickford the wrong way.  

Everton worked the ball up nicely, Ndiaye's deflected shot winning a corner, punched out. Alcaraz then tried a shot that was wild and wooly. Alcarz then fouled Fernandes but Mbeurmo hit the one-man wall. Amad fell over again when touched and another free kick this time reached Pickford.  

Fernandes was allowed to waltz through but fired at Pickford, the rebound falling ti Mbuemo, his shot blocked as the Red Devils were now finding it a lot easier to get up the field and into the Everton area. Everton did mount an attack of sorts through Beto then Ndiaye but the cross evaded Ireogbunam. An Everton corner was lofted high to the back post by Garner, where it was easily headed away.  Garner put in a decent cross from the right which found Beto but Dalot was there to block his shot.

Everton tried to build again, the ball coming out for Gueye who completely missed the ball with his attempted strike. Good work by Mykolenko to recover a clearance saw Gana swing over a great cross to Iliman Ndiaye who finished very neatly first time at the back post for a nice equalizing goal.  

O'Brien almost scored again, reacting to a defender's glancing header but could only put it over the angle. Ugarte had a good chance to shoot but Pickford saved it confidently. And that was the end of the half in which Everton had actually played quite well and deserved more than one goal. 

No changes for the Blues. Beto almost got in with a chance but Yorro's tackle stopped him at the expense of an early corner, but Keane or Beto were offside when Garner headed the ball back over the Man Utd defence. 

Garner stopped a ball with his arm as he went down, the ball going out for a corner, no penalty. Alcarz drove through but the one-two with Beto went sadly wrong and a clear goal chance was spurned. Moyes then made four subs after Amorin had made three and the game became very disjointed.

Beto caught Heaven across the face as he turned, largely accidental. Iroegnbunam and Onyango got bypassed as Mount came inside, spun round, and curled an excellent strike beyond Pickford to restore Man Utd's lead, 

Great work by Ndiaye saw the ball break for Onyango as Ferrnades kicked out at Ndiaye from behind, those two fighting while Amad boots the ball into his own goal as Barry was about to shot! Another Everton equalizer and 2 yellow cards. 

Barry tangled with Heaven off the ball and then rolled around in agony for a good few minutes, until the referee stopped the game. Then O'Brien and Onyango tried to head the same ball.

A great ball forward to Barry was poorly controlled, a gift for Maguire to clear. But Armstrong came on and won a corner that almost saw Bayindir struggle to save. At the other end, Mount played in Dorgu who forced a great save from Pickford. 

Good work from Chermiti won a late corner for Garner to balloon across to Onyango. Everton tried to go for a late goal to win it but the play was scrappy, and the game played out to a draw, with honours not exactly even, Man Utd having won the series while Everton finished ignominiously with the wooden spoon. 

Man Utd: Bayindir, Shaw (57' Mount), De Ligt (88' Fredricson), Yoro (57' Heaven), Dalot, Mainoo (57' Maguire), Ugarte (72' Hojlund), Amad, Cunha (72' Casemiro), Fernandes [Y:74'], Mbeumo (46' Dorgu).

Subs: Heaton, Mee, Leon, Collyer, Kone, Mantato, Williams, Obi.

Everton: Pickford, O’Brien, Keane, Tarkowski (61' Aznou), Mykolenko, Gana, Iroegbunam (84' Armstrong), Garner (61 Onyango), Alcaraz (61' McNeil), Ndiaye [Y:74'] (84' Chermiti), Beto (61' Barry).

Subs: Travers, Tyrer, Thomas,  Heath, Clarke.  

 

Reader Comments (95)

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Ian Bennett
1 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:16:21
Moyes out.

I've gone early, but one day i'll be right.

Jim Bennings
2 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:29:41
Who in Ian?
Colin Metcalfe
3 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:30:38
No Patterson ? Picked up an injury ?
Jim Bennings
4 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:33:27
Colin,

Patterson picks up injuries like no-marks pick up used cigarette butts lol

Liam Mogan
5 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:34:25
Patterson is awful, unfortunately.
Colin Metcalfe
6 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:37:38
Big shame for £15M I had high hopes for this kid, so we definitely need to sign a right full back
Tom Bowers
7 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:39:54
Back four top heavy. Midfield too weak and offense impotent. Result, we all know will not be good.
Jim Bennings
8 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:40:01
Patterson is one of those players where the idea of him being a good player is very different from the actual reality.

There have been many like that over the years, because they hardly feature we build up this imaginary phenomena in our minds but it never comes to fruit.

He'll probably have the same season as he did last season and the season before that, smattering of games and then 20 games not seen nor heard.

Ian Bennett
9 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:41:25
Thelwell for me, Jim.

The guy's a genius; each passing day, he gets better and better.

Colin Malone
10 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:43:15
I would have liked to see Armstrong starting, instead of Tim or Jimmy.

Ndiaye and Charly need forward balls to run on to.

Dale Self
11 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:44:43
Supposedly Juanlu of Sevilla, who played well right-back at Wolves, is being approached.

And Pereira is pissed off about it.

Liam Mogan
12 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:45:34
Not a good look to have the manager calling out players on the pitch minutes before the game.

Moyes is defo feeling the pressure.

Kevin Molloy
13 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:49:52
Not a bad side, it all looks better with Tarkowski back. Suddenly I think the defence will be okay.

I would be nice to see Iroegbunam and Alcaraz have a good game. I see nothing to fear from Man Utd.

Neil Copeland
14 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:51:17
What a fantastic stadium although higher up than Newcastle even! Outnumbered by Man Utd glory hunters but still well represented and quite a few from home.

There was a tailgate meet of Toffees outside the stadium and quite a few blue flares (security not impressed ha!).

Anyway, COYB!

Brendan McLaughlin
15 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:55:44
Enjoy Neil #14
Kieran Kinsella
16 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:56:08
Liam,

What are you referring to?

Peter Moore
17 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:57:12
Cracking update, Neil.

Wishing you and all blues a performance from the lads befitting of your support. UTFT

Mike Gaynes
18 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:59:00
Enjoy, Neil!
Michael Kenrick
19 Posted 03/08/2025 at 21:59:22
Why does that look more like Travers in green?

Or is it Pickford with a scraggly beard?

Liam Mogan
20 Posted 03/08/2025 at 22:01:32
Moyes was interviewed by Tim Howard, etc, on pitch and said he wasn't happy with Beto.
Neil Copeland
21 Posted 03/08/2025 at 22:17:03
Thanks all, decent so far.
Neil Copeland
22 Posted 03/08/2025 at 22:42:28
Goalll!
Andrew Merrick
23 Posted 03/08/2025 at 22:43:04
Great goal
Neil Copeland
24 Posted 03/08/2025 at 22:48:38
The better team so far, a little unlucky with the penalty.

Overall, much improved.

Danny O'Neill
25 Posted 03/08/2025 at 22:59:18
Decent half. Man Utd look a bit sharper and quicker on the break, but we've worked hard and mostly look comfortable. Looked marginal for Beto's offside, but VAR would have given it by a shoulder blade.

No complaints about the penalty. Tarkowski got caught playing catch-up.

Is that now a goal and assist by Gana in 2 games?!!

I was thinking, maybe cynicism, but I wonder how long before Ndiaye gets labelled by so-called big club managers for going down easy and refs start being influenced?

No, it's just his pace and box of tricks catching defenders out.

Neil Copeland
26 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:06:59
I thought the penalty was very soft, unlikely that is given in the Premier League.

Just been refused alcohol because I have no ID. Should be flattered really but ridiculous and very annoying.

Ryan Holroyd
27 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:20:01
Beto is so bad, it's criminal he's an Everton Number 9.
Danny O'Neill
28 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:29:33
Neil, I remember in Vegas a decade ago, meeting up with a cousin and her husband in one of the hotels.

Not only did we have to show ID, we had to show all four and be present each time we went to the bar.

Ben King
29 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:33:43
Never was a penalty. Beto is poor. Tim poor too in the Doucoure role. Garner has been good.

O'Brien's distribution is really poor.

We desperately need some quality to help Ndiaye.

Ian Bennett
30 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:47:11
Onyango and Iroegbunam are miles away from the level needed.
Paul Kossoff
31 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:50:45
To the person who stole my anti-depressants, I hope your fucking happy.😕
Ian Bennett
32 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:55:13
Need more talent in midfield and up top. Solid enough at the back.

But keeping possession and creating chances looks a difficult task. Nothing we didn'tt already know.

Kevin Molloy
33 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:58:01
Slowly getting better.

Playing teams like Port Vale and Man Utd, whilst you can't take anything from giving them the run around, it's good for fitness and takes us up a notch.

Ernie Baywood
34 Posted 03/08/2025 at 23:58:20
Interesting enough run out. Probably full strength for what we have available.

Obvious limitations. Tim Iregbunamo is an odd one – looks like he should be able to have an impact but fails on the most basic stuff.

Too early to judge Barry but he hasn't really got involved yet.

Oh well. Last test event and then we do it for real.

Neil Copeland
35 Posted 03/08/2025 at 00:01:36
Much better overall. Never a penalty and Beto onside prevented us from winning. Still plenty to do and we need to bulk out the squad but much more encouraging.

Off for a drink! 🤣

Danny O'Neill
36 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:03:04
Result didn't matter, but a much improved performance.

Even though an own goal, a very well worked move for the second equaliser.

David West
37 Posted 03/08/2025 at 00:04:40
Better all round.

We need a right-winger, nothing comes down our right. Shows that Barry will need time to settle I think.

I'd love Mason Mount from Man Utd. Highly unlikely, I know, but exactly the type we need.

Just playing 4 at the back makes us look solid, and we will be again this season; add some creativity and goals and it's easy to see us pushing up the league.

4 players in please before Leeds: right-winger, right-back, 2 x Midfielders.

Gavin Johnson
38 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:08:47
A much better performance tonight. The players looked more up for it and lost some more of the ring rust. Hopefully we bring in Dibling this week, as we desperately need to bring one in if we are bringing in 4 or 5 players before the start of September.

Tonight will be Onyango's last appearance, so good luck to the lad at his next club. If we bring in Luiz or Dewsbury-Hall, I'd probably keep Armstrong in and around the team and sell Iroegbunam.

Mark Fitzgerald
39 Posted 03/08/2025 at 00:13:02
Game shows exactly where we are: a solid group of players who performed well to the end last season. But we are crying out for some reinforcements and ones of quality at that.

At this stage, I'd be happy to settle for 2 or 3 proper players signed in the next couple of weeks: a right-back, a right-winger and central-midfielder at a minimum. If they could manage to recruit the likes of Juanlu, Dibling & Grealish, then I'd look at the upcoming season with genuine expectation.

Peter Moore
40 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:13:43
Neil (26), refused a drink as you have no ID?? You must have been using Oil of Ulay since we last met. Meant in jest of course mate!

UTFT though!

Considering that should not have been a penalty for them, the lads put in a good shift against a bigger much more expensive squad.

Mike Connolly
41 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:16:18
Thought we played okay today.

It's hard playing against these relegation-battling teams… UTFT

Dave Abrahams
42 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:19:34
I thought James Garner was Everton's best player tonight, with Ndiaye not far behind, along with Gana. But we still need a solid mid field player to help them out. Armstrong should be kept here and let Tim go on loan to learn a bit more — especially about being in the game for 90 minutes.

A better performance tonight and we will get better when we sign those six players before the end of the window —- well, as they are better than some of the mediocre players still with us!

Mark Taylor
43 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:22:39
I thought Jimmy Garner, Ndiaye and Mykolenko were the standout players.

The youngsters looked well off the pace, Aznou and Onyango. Shows the Premier League is a real step up. But the former is supposedly a big talent and he's young. Right-wing is a big problem and, while O'Brien does a job at right-back, we really can't afford to waste him there.

Given the paucity of our squad, I'd suggest Patterson and Chermiti need to be looking for an exit strategy given their lack of minutes. It's pretty clear Moyes rates neither. Beto might be a blunderbuss but he will start; Barry hasn't done anything yet to change Moyes's mind on that. Or mine.

Danny O'Neill
44 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:26:24
Dave @62, James Garner was only a very good save away from a perfectly executed free kick goal.

I still don't think he gets enough recognition for how much energy and aggression in the tackle he puts in. He does from me. As well as his ability to play forward when it's on.

Brian Wilkinson
45 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:29:57
Much better performance that; overall, I thought we were the better team.

As for the penalty, softer than the one Young got turned down against them after Fernandes got in the refs face at Goodison last season, one sly rat face Fernandes getting a sly one in on McNeil.

Like I said last week, forwards look raw, would still bring Vardy in for a season, send Chermiti out on loan.

Beto looks better and winning more challenges, laid the ball off better tonight as well.

All-in-all, we won a lot of the second lose balls and 50/50 challenges.

If we can get another 4 players in, it will make a big difference.

Neil Cremin
46 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:30:04
What did people think of Charly's performance?

I'm a bit concerned that he is not going to deliver on the expectations here on TW.
Dave Abrahams
47 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:33:12
Danny (44),

Yes, Garner gets a lot more stick than praise off a lot of fans but he is a very tidy player for me.

Kevin Molloy
48 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:33:32
Man Utd were building some real momentum on tour, I fear we may have shat on all their plans.

If they go into a nosedive from here, I'll never forgive myself.

Rob Halligan
49 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:37:11
Solid performance from start to finish. It was never a penalty in a million years, and had there been VAR, then surely it would have been overturned.

The back four looked their reliable best… yes, even Keane, but with Branthwaite returning next Saturday, they will look even stronger. Jimmy Garner and Ndiaye probably MotM for me, but everyone played well.

Our starting eleven (with Branthwaite in for Keane) I reckon is more than a match for anyone, it's the depth in the squad that's a concern, but I'm sure this will be put right in the next couple of weeks.

Mark Taylor
50 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:38:18
Neil,

I think he needs to play in the position Tim was occupying and a proper right-winger in his place. That would work better, especially if there is a player in Barry (none spotted so far, but early days)…

Si Cooper
51 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:42:43
Ben (29),

I don't think anyone should be playing the ‘Doucoure role'. It was an aberration caused by how light we have been in key attacking positions and hopefully a couple more recruits will banish that jerry-rigged system to history.

Which of the better, more successful, teams really play with a ‘Doucoure Role'?
I'll be much happier when we can ask our midfielders to simply play as such.

Kieran Kinsella
52 Posted 04/08/2025 at 00:46:51
“Beto broke a year early”

That is some offside trap.

Ed Prytherch
53 Posted 04/08/2025 at 01:15:02
I think that was the best game that I have seen from James Garner. If he can maintain this form, we will be a competitive team. Mykolenko has also played better than last season.

Our two strikers may not be the most skilled but they are a pair of rough buggers; add that to the aggression of Alcaraz, there will be some defenders who will not fancy it!

Christine Foster
54 Posted 04/08/2025 at 01:55:57
Considering where we are in squad depth, it was a good performance. In truth, we were far behind the quality of some Man Utd players but better tactically. When I look back to last year's pre-season stuff, it's light years ahead of where we where then — both in terms of fitness and structure.

Whilst our effort and playing to our strengths were excellent, the shortfalls in depth and quality of play are still of concern. Man Utd flattered to deceive, good quality but went nowhere; conversely, we battled and, on another day, deserved to win it on chances created. Lucky penalty, offset by a lucky equaliser, unlucky to hit a post and have one disallowed, never mind Beto getting in the way of Alcaraz.

Beto will cause chaos with some defenders but his finishing is just not good enough. Barry, frankly, did little to push his claim for a starting place ahead of Beto, looking decidedly lightweight as a replacement. We cannot play the same way, pumping balls up to him, he is not a like-for-like replacement.

All-in-all, a better performance all round.

Paul Kernot
55 Posted 04/08/2025 at 01:57:45
Kieran.

You reminded me of my mate many years ago who was pretty artistic and wrote his club's weekly newsletter.

He called it 'late tackle' — the picture he drew for the front page was of a guy at a bus stop wearing a suit, bowler hat & carrying a brief case, with a guy in full kit, studs up, sliding in towards his ankles.

Bob Parrington
56 Posted 04/08/2025 at 03:12:09
Chuckle! Nice one, Kevin!
Craig Scott
57 Posted 04/08/2025 at 03:27:22
I don't want to be negative but, if I was a neutral watching us today, I'd have to say that there was very little quality football from us (or them) that actually entertained.

Our first goal and their second were pretty good but the rest was average bordering on garbage. For those who thought we played well or that it was a 'good' performance, well it just goes to show how our expectations have dropped over the years.

Fans pay a lot of money to be entertained by quality football and our team ain't displaying that at present.

Si Cooper
58 Posted 04/08/2025 at 03:50:46
What do you mean ‘entertained', Craig?

It cracks me-up that people aren't engaged by a decent sporting competition. What are people expecting to see?

The commentators thought it was an entertaining first half and they will quite often say if they think it wasn't.

Then you have a second half massively disrupted by mass substitutions because, guess what, this is a largely meaningless pre-season fixture.

I was pleased that we stayed competitive for the whole 90 minutes and some players, Garner the stand-out, seemed happy to step-up and take on more of the workload.

I think it's harsh to say Barry's control was poor on the chance that Maguire snuffed out. Like a similar one against Bournemouth, sometimes you just have to credit the defender with doing their job well.

Same with Dalot being in just the right (wrong?) place at the right time to foil Beto in the act of converting what would otherwise have been credited as a neat bit of skill.

Nil-nil draws can be entertaining if the teams are evenly matched. If you don't feel the same, then there are some aspects of the game you must be incapable of appreciating.


Terry Farrell
59 Posted 04/08/2025 at 03:59:12
Neil, outstanding away support, my friend! I only went out for a paper.

We look okay with the core squad but we all know we need to add some quality signings. I think they will come. Keep the faith, brothers and sisters.

Jay Harris
60 Posted 04/08/2025 at 04:31:31
I thought we matched Man Utd's craft with determination and graft and really could and should have won this one. O'Brien hit the post when it was easier to score and put a header just past the post.

Jimmy Garner had one of his best games for us; I thought Ndiaye looked off the pace in the first half but what a cracking goal.

Beto and Barry look the weak links right now but hopefully with reinforcements their link-up play will improve.

So sad we didn't get Delap.

Onyango and Armstrong didn't look out of place but McNeil is still a major concern for me. His lack of pace means he gets closed down too quickly and we end up going backwards.

Craig Scott
61 Posted 04/08/2025 at 05:32:00
Si.

A fixture between two Sunday pub teams can be competitive and entertaining I guess, but most fans pay to see our players play a higher standard than that with passing and ball control that justifies their huge salaries.

The majority of posters and fans are recognising that we're well short of quality and our play over the last five or six fixtures reflects that.

I'm just stating it as it is.

Jerome Shields
62 Posted 04/08/2025 at 05:53:38
Improvement in they didn't get beat. Long way short on quality against a mediocre Man Utd team.

A few players still needed, which Everton should be on the way to getting. Barry needs more Premier League game time.

Sam Hoare
63 Posted 04/08/2025 at 06:21:55
Man Utd spent the best part of £135M on two of the better Premier League attackers last season, Mbuemo and Cunha, so no surprise if they look a little sharper in attack. But we still matched them for the most part.

Replace Iroegbunam with a better midfielder (or play Alcaraz there), put in a more dangerous right-winger and right-back and I think we'll be okay.

Beto and Barry will frustrate of course but they are a handful and Beto proved he can get goals last season.

Add Dibling, Fofana, Douglas Luiz and Juanlu Sanchez to this side and I think it's got a decent shot at Top 10, with a young core who could form the basis for a team challenging in Europe over the next 5 years.

Let's see who we get.


Danny O'Neill
64 Posted 04/08/2025 at 07:24:09
Neil @46, on Alcaraz, I thought he was trying, but it just wasn't coming off for him. He's the type of player who will rely on the midfielders behind him (he doesn't belong there), and what's in front of him, otherwise he tries to go alone, which happened a few times last night. He cut a frustrated figure on a few occasions.

He did strike up a good understanding with Beto last season, so I'm hoping this will continue once we get down to real business.

As mentioned above, I wouldn't be rushing to judge Thierno Barry just yet after just about 90 minutes of accumulated time on the pitch in cameos. Give the kid time to settle.

I thought Aznou looked okay for his brief run out. Iroegbunam showed a few signs again, I'm just not sure he's ready to claim a starting berth in a fully fit and added to squad. Similarly with Onyango, although he looked bright. A shame that Armstrong didn't get longer than 10 minutes.

On the senior players.

We've already mentioned Garner. Pickford did his usual when called upon. He looked a bit more composed and commanding of his box.

Ndiaye; read what I put for Alcaraz, the difference he spent a lot of time being kicked, pulled and pushed, often surrounded by 2 or 3 opposition players. I think he's going to have to get used to that as he seems to be becoming a target out of respect.

As Rob mentions, the defence were mostly resolute. O'Brien, Tarkowski, Keane and Mykolenko looked more assured in a settled back 4. Is it me, or does our Ukrainian seem to perform better against better opposition? Our captain just needs to keep adding oil and deep heat to get rid of the rustiness. Maybe the more lethal Tiger Balm. Not pleasant if you leave your post match boxers exposed to mischievous team mates or forget to wash your hands before heading for a pre-match number one.

In all, and not bothered about the result, a much more positive performance to finish off the US venture. There was a lot more resilience than we've seen to date, coming back from a goal behind twice.

Onto the next one against I Giallorossi.

Andy Griff
65 Posted 04/08/2025 at 07:51:49
"The Mancs"? Really?
Robert Tressell
66 Posted 04/08/2025 at 07:58:06
Paul # 31, I’m stealing all these jokes btw. Keep them coming.
Daniel A Johnson
67 Posted 04/08/2025 at 08:08:20
Barry didn't look great for the money.

McNeil offered nothing when he came on.

Myko looked solid and beto was a handful.

Ian Bennett
68 Posted 04/08/2025 at 08:09:52
Well last night highlighted we need a minimum of

Two right wingers
One right back
Another centre half
One defensive midfielder
One box to box midfielder
A striker
Some emerging talent to stick out on loan to support the squad going forward.

The squad is desperately thin of quality and quantity, and only allows park the bus tactics and then nicking the ball. A boisterous crowd will make it more difficul for the opposition, but last night highlighted technically how far off they are in retaining and releasing the ball with teal quality. That has ti be overcome to get ahead of the mid pack.

The effort was there. The penalty was soft, the 2nd was poor closing down, and there were moments where we should have punished more - obrien and beto.

Danny O'Neill
69 Posted 04/08/2025 at 08:21:00
What upsets you about the term Mancs Andy?

A throwback really.

It opens up another debate. If I recall correctly, back in the day we used to distinguish between United and City as Mancunians and Mancastrians. I don't know if that is correct, just what we used to say.

Similarly, I resent being called a Liverpudlian and always correct people. Too close to being associated as a Kopite.

I prefer being labelled a Scouser or coming from the city of Liverpool.

If I am correct, and I stand to be corrected, I think there is an official term of Liverpolitan. I'd prefer that, just don't call me a Liverpudlian.

Ray Jacques
70 Posted 04/08/2025 at 08:33:55
We have a manager who will get the best out of the players available, without showing any flair or overperforming (?). That is a solid stance and will see us in the lower half of the table.

We need 4 or 5 in to allow some flexibility/ account for injuries and we can then have a reasonable season and finish 7th to 12th.

The right back situation scares me. I struggle to believe this hasnt been addressed for 5 years. O brien is a makeshift as he will be needed at centre back as Tarkowski isn't getting any younger.

Mal van Schaick
71 Posted 04/08/2025 at 08:45:56
Having lost several players from last season, to me it’s the same as last season, start off with low expectations and Everton scrap and struggle to get something from a game and occasionally surprise everyone by getting a win against the odds. Whereas, we should be building a squad with high expectations of winning every game and to date we have failed to recruit to fulfill those expectations.
Mike Doyle
72 Posted 04/08/2025 at 09:19:36
During the last week I've spoken to 1 x Bournemouth and 2 x Man U fans.
All 3 thought that their teams have looked fairly poor in the USA tournament.
Perhaps we shouldn't be too hard on ourselves at this stage?
Rob Halligan
73 Posted 04/08/2025 at 09:21:47
Mike, is there a ToffeeWeb equivalent for those clubs, and if so, do their fans rip the team and the club apart like they do on here?
John Williams
74 Posted 04/08/2025 at 09:24:52
Having watched last nights game, it is clear, both United and Everton are going to have a difficult season.
Lack of quality is there for all to see and looking at Barry last night, well. he was nt on long, but he is not first choice by a long way.
Beto is Beto.
We need a quality striker and a top class midfield player for starters.
A right winger (I don t mean Farage) and a quality rightback.
Ernie Baywood
75 Posted 04/08/2025 at 09:25:12
Definitely, Mike. These games are about getting ready for the opening day and giving some local fans an experience.

Add in terrible pitches and you can expect the games to be unimpressive.

Realistically if we've got some minutes into the new boys and returning players then we've done alright.

Peter Mills
76 Posted 04/08/2025 at 09:41:59
I quite enjoyed the game. We created a number of chances, but at the same time some of our passing and ball control was awful.

We have only got two players, Pickford and Branthwaite, who are excellent. Below that there is a number of competent, decent footballers who could improve with more quality around them.

Manchester Utd showed last night what the addition of a couple of £60m players can do. It seems we cannot compete in that market, which makes me think that a £10m season from Jack Grealish might not be such a bad idea if it can be brought about.

Derek Knox
77 Posted 04/08/2025 at 09:42:57
Watched the whole game, and felt an improvement on the previous two. It seems to be coming together better but still too many wayward passes and defensive lapses.

Having said that, many predicted a mullering from Manure, I thought considering the immoral amount of money they have spent (Cunha, Mbuemo etc) they didn't look any better than us. With a bit of that rare commodity (luck) we could have come away as victors in this one.

I was hoping that had our luck been in, the ' mullering ' would have had our team defeating them, and West Ham picking up the meaningless trophy, by virtue of a narrow goal difference.

They have a very tricky opening 3 of 5 games, Arsenal, Man City and Chelsea, so it will be interesting to see how they fare, hoping we have significant space between us and them again.

Danny O'Neill
78 Posted 04/08/2025 at 09:56:55
Derek @77,

Lord knows how they are still managing to spend the amounts they are given the debt they are in and claiming the need to cut costs by laying of non-playing staff.

If I was to put a bet on, Armoim could be first to go if it doesn't start well. He got a let off last season with hopes they would win the Europa League and gain Champions League qualification. With the player investment, I doubt he will be afforded the same patience this time around.

Behind him, I would suggest the Bournemouth manager, for different reasons. If someone else comes sniffing, he may decide to take his chance.

Stu Darlington
79 Posted 04/08/2025 at 10:09:24
Rob@49 and Christine @54 sum the game up pretty well for me.
We looked to move the ball quicker and get it forward more than last season,although it was very predictable and easy to read.
Jimmy Garner played well but overall the performance highlighted our desperate need for a creative midfielder and right winger to mix up our attacking play.
Long balls up the middle,and occasional dangerous crosses to two big strikers are meat and drink to Premier League centre backs,hence the need for more creativity from midfield.
Was it just me or was Gana playing further forward than usual,seemed to be breaking up play higher up the pitch than usual?
I said it last season,but Alcaraz is a worry for me.He seems to be blowing hard in the 2nd half,can we get a full 90 out of him?
Tim Iroegbunum has either got a lot to learn or just doesn’t have it for me.Only my opinion,but certainly doesn’t have the quality to improve our midfield at the moment.
Sam@63
Love your optimism but really? Dibling,Luiz,Fofana and Sanchez?
I reckon,Dibling a chance if we offer £40m plus add ons,
Luiz isn’t falling over himself to come to Everton and looks like he is going to Forest,Sanchez to Wolves and Fofana to any CL club.
Hackney,Fellows,Souceck,Brownhill and Maitland-Niles look a more realistic prospects to me given our pulling power.Whatever happens our performance last night,lacking quality though it did,makes me think we will be better than most teams in the bottom half of the table.
I know,a terrible accolade for Everton FC,but at least a foundation to build on.
Derek Knox
80 Posted 04/08/2025 at 10:17:44
Danny, good to hear from you mate, it almost beggars belief, how certain teams, seem to be exempt from FFP and PSR, whereas us and many like us have to be more frugal and prudent.

It can't be disputed however they can boast a much bigger (and global) fanbase, hence increased revenue, as opposed to ourselves and others like us ! Which brings me to a point, that I, and many others have raised about our commercial ineptitude. We don't even have Everton TV. (as such)

I would have thought being involved in this Summer Series, would have been an ideal opportunity to boost fan numbers, sales and the whole gamut of Everton F C. No nothing, de nada, whether the Friedkins have goofed or didn't think along those lines, is almost unthinkable in this day and age.

John Pickles
81 Posted 04/08/2025 at 10:36:50
Apparently, from the Echo:

'It is understood referee Thomas Bramall apologised to Everton’s players, admitting he got it wrong in awarding Manchester United a penalty.'

Derek Taylor
82 Posted 04/08/2025 at 10:38:21
Purely on the evidence so far, we are in for yet another season of struggle. The 7/1 available as odds against relegation looks generous 'in extremis' with the Moyes effect likely to have dissolved and the failure - so far- to replace the players sacked by others anywhere near their quality.

Indeed, if the manager had a hand in replacing the generally successful DoF with the much vaunted 'flat structure', he may well come to regret his desire to be 'in control'.

But it's still early days and we never wake up before Christmas, do we ?

Sam Hoare
83 Posted 04/08/2025 at 10:53:38
Stu@79 I definitely think it’s unlikely we’ll sign all 4 of those. Fofana especially seems unconvinced.

But it would be fun if we did!

Dibling, Dion Lopy (we’ve bid apparently), KDH and Grealish on loan is probably more likely.

Jake FitzGerald
84 Posted 04/08/2025 at 10:54:41
Everything else going okay for you, Derek?
Brian Harrison
85 Posted 04/08/2025 at 10:58:27
Last nights performance was nearer to the form we showed at the back end of last season. But we do need more of a goal threat than we have at present, and hopefully we may get some players in who can help with that part of our game. With having last seasons back 4 playing with the exception of Keane for Branthwaite, we looked very solid, and I doubt that penalty would have been given in the Premier league.
Moyes certainly looked very animated on the touchline, and sometimes our players would test the patience of a saint with there poor passing when in good positions. How Alcaraz and Beto messed up that chance in the 2nd half was unbelievable.

But we looked sharper and more aggressive all over the park and while still short of quality up front we still created some good chances. Moyes interviewed after the game said he thought that was Garners best game so far. He also said he expected some signings this week but added I thought that a few weeks back, but we seem closer this time.

Derek Knox
86 Posted 04/08/2025 at 11:04:51
John @ 81, the bent ref looked like a quarterback, but instead of padding it must have been all those 'brown envelopes'.

It's all very well these twats saying after the event, " they made an error of judgement " it never alters the outcome, and if an important match, points lost, or exit from a Cup is a bitter pill to swallow.

Rob Halligan
87 Posted 04/08/2025 at 12:01:52
Had there been VAR it would have been overturned.
John Pickles
88 Posted 04/08/2025 at 12:26:56
With our luck with VAR Rob, they probably would have sent Tarkowski off as well!
David West
89 Posted 04/08/2025 at 12:37:40
Think this exercise of playing 3 PL teams in quick succession could prove to be a big positive for the start of the season.
Last night was played at a really good pace, with a good bit of commitment.
We would like to have had a better squad of course, but it should see us ready fitness wise for Leeds.
Rather see them play these games preseason than lots of lower league opposition.

Beto looks like he might have found a pair of boots that fit him.. and improved his touch a little.
Charly has been a bit disappointing, although working hard his effect on games has been minimal. I hope it's not a case of downing tools now his loans permanent.
Mcneil needs to improve too.

With the numbers in squad we can't afford these players to underperform !

Derek Knox
90 Posted 04/08/2025 at 12:42:44
David W, some good points there you made. I am hoping that there will be some activity in a positive sense Transfer-wise !

" Beto looks like he might have found a pair of boots that fit him.. and improved his touch a little."

Unfortunately they are roller boots ! :-)

Si Ord
91 Posted 04/08/2025 at 13:14:10
He would also do better if he put them on the correct feet.

Recruitment is pretty standard Everton going after players out of reach and being left with the scraps.

Why are we not looking at Arnau Martinez at right back?

Martin Berry
92 Posted 04/08/2025 at 14:16:45
I thought we were impressive when you consider the lack of new players. Also four player change on 60 minutes, we did not buckle but buckled down.
We matched Utd who have done most of there business.
The defence looked more solid, the Manager tweeked the midfield allowing Garner to have a great game, he was the best player on the pitch.
Dead balls, a bane of the boss last season have improved, corners dispatched away from the keeper etc.
Beto is learning to hold up the ball better and is going to be a right handful.
The new signings on show will be fine as they adapt to the rigors of the Prem.
With additional signings hopefully ? sorting out the right and midfield I think we will do ok on yesterdays showing.
Ian Bennett
93 Posted 04/08/2025 at 14:20:57
Sociedad are signing a wolves winger. Could free up kubo if they get a couple in
Si Cooper
94 Posted 04/08/2025 at 18:47:48
“The majority of posters and fans are recognising that we're well short of quality and our play over the last five or six fixtures reflects that.”

Craig, I would hope the majority have been aware of the deficiencies in the squad for a much longer time than that.

You pay money to see a sporting contest, which can be adversely affected in many random ways. What you don’t pay for is some scripted and rehearsed performance that is guaranteed to satisfy high expectations.

We hope the necessary level of quality will come sooner rather than later but anyone expecting it right here and now hasn’t been paying attention.

Colin Malone
95 Posted 04/08/2025 at 23:03:34
Armstrong Garner and Gana for me in midfield.

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