Manchester United maintained their strong start under interim boss Michael Carrick, extending an unbeaten run to six matches with a hard-fought 1-0 Premier League victory over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The result means Manchester United have now won five and drawn one since Carrick stepped in, with Benjamin Sesko proving the difference through a composed second-half finish.
United arrived on Merseyside aware of their recent struggles on the road, having won just once in their previous five away league games. The visitors showed intent from the opening whistle and nearly struck inside four minutes. Amad Diallo forced a low save from Jordan Pickford, before James Tarkowski cleared off the line to keep the scores level.
The away side continued to look the more dangerous in possession. Diogo Dalot came close with a fierce long-range effort that narrowly missed the target. Everton, however, grew into the contest as the first half progressed. Their best opportunity before the break came from James Garner, whose free-kick was held well by Senne Lammens.
The second half began with greater urgency from the home side. Within a minute of the restart, Harrison Armstrong tested Lammens with a curling strike from close range, but the goalkeeper reacted sharply. United responded soon after, only for Bryan Mbeumo to fire over when well placed.
Despite pressure from David Moyes’ men, United found the breakthrough in the 71st minute through a clinical counterattack. Matheus Cunha launched the move with a precise long pass that released Mbeumo down the flank. The forward waited for support before sliding the ball into Sesko’s path, and the striker produced a confident first-time finish into the far corner.
Speaking after the match, Carrick praised his side’s discipline and composure. “We showed resilience and patience. It was a tight game, but the players stuck to the plan and took the chance when it came,” he said.
Everton refused to surrender. Michael Keane forced another strong save from Lammens with a powerful effort from distance, while Tyrique George was denied late on as the goalkeeper stood firm under pressure.
Moyes acknowledged his team’s effort but admitted the finishing touch was missing. “We created moments and tested their goalkeeper, but at this level you must be clinical. That was the difference,” he noted.
United saw out the closing stages to secure a valuable three points in the Premier League. The victory moves them to within three points of Aston Villa in third place, underlining the momentum building under Carrick as the season gathers pace.
