Manchester United got hit with a brutal injury-time equalizer, drawing 2-2 against Everton, and it left head coach Michael Carrick absolutely gutted. This wasn’t just a tough draw, it was a moment that underscored a shaky start to their Premier League campaign, especially after leading twice in the game.
Another Game, Another Two Goals Conceded
Man Utd had control for long stretches at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, even taking the lead multiple times. Tyrique George slammed home the first equalizer with a brutal strike, and then, BAM, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, making his debut as a substitute, nailed a blistering last-gasp shot from outside the box for the second. It was the first time an Everton player scored from outside the penalty area on their Premier League debut. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens might have done better on that first one, but George’s shot had serious pace. The problem? This wasn’t a one-off. Carrick’s side has conceded two goals in all three of their first Premier League games. Wayne Rooney, analyzing the game, saw “a lot more control in the performance” and praised the midfield, but even he’d be “disappointed with the result.” Carrick nailed it when he said it “feels like a defeat.” He’s “bitterly disappointed” because all the hard work to get ahead just vanished. He knows the optics aren’t great, and the basic reality is simple: if you give up two goals every game, you are not winning many Premier League matches.
Early Season Struggles and What Comes Next
After a European pre-season that should have had them flying, Carrick’s squad has already dropped five points from their first three league games. Their opponents so far? Two promoted teams and an Everton side whose fans are already distraught after a botched deadline day. It’s not a murderer’s row of opponents, which makes the dropped points even tougher to swallow. On the flip side, there are some positives. Striker Benjamin Sesko scored his first goal of the season, finally getting past a shin injury delay. Kobbie Mainoo has been really impressive overall and shows zero signs of being affected by his rough World Cup experience. Lammens also shows serious mental strength, and Marcus Rashford seems back with a real sense of purpose. But these bright spots get overshadowed when you keep giving away points. Now, they’ve got to gear up for their Champions League return against Sabah FK from Azerbaijan. After that? It’s Manchester City. This is the kind of week they would have dreamed of a year ago, but right now, the pressure is officially on. Carrick needs his team to concede fewer goals to stand any chance of winning games.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by BBC Sport.
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