United View: Reds grind out win at Everton

Manchester United’s first trip to Bramley Moore Dock was always going to be a difficult night for the Reds. 

Everton, compact and physical, were determined to make life uncomfortable for United, and for long stretches, they succeeded. 

But, United found a way, grinding out a 1-0 win thanks to a moment of brilliance from Benjamin Sesko and a composed display from Senne Lammens in goal.

The Reds had an extended break with no FA Cup action, looking to improve upon their 1-1 draw against West Ham in the previous game. 

And with Chelsea and Aston Villa both dropping points at the weekend, the pressure was on to make up on their lost ground.

The Hammers had already shown that United struggle against a side that sits deep, and this continued for much of the contest at the Hill Dickinson, with United’s frontline not linking up as fluidly as they have been in recent weeks.

A wet evening, coupled with a physical Everton performance, probably helped throw United off their game, until Benjamin Sesko was introduced and provided the game’s only piece of effective attacking.

Matheus Cunha’s switch out to Bryan Mbeumo was followed by the Cameroon international putting the ball perfectly in the path of Sesko, who had burnt James Tarkowski for pace before delivering a precise first-time finish past Jordan Pickford.

The Slovenian has had a fantastic start to 2026, scoring six goals in his last seven games, and is starting to show why United were keen to spend big money on him in the summer.

He’s been utilised as a sub under Michael Carrick, but after his recent form against West Ham and Everton, it might be best to start Sesko when facing a side that is happy to sit back and soak up pressure.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the pitch, Senne Lammens was the standout on the night. 

Making big saves, claiming the ball and dealing with extensive pressure on corners to ensure United came away with a clean sheet for the first time in an away game this season.

The Belgian has been one of United’s best players this season and arguably their most transformative signing, bringing a level of calmness with his saves and his composure on the ball, too.

Speaking after the game, the 23-year-old said, “I just try to stay calm, play my own game.” 

“I know I have the qualities, I wouldn’t be here otherwise. 

“So, I just believe in myself, the players around me and my teammates support me a lot.”

“Now I just keep on building, keep getting that confidence. 

“Like today, getting those wins, feeling important, is really important.”

The fact that he delivered this performance with Edwin van der Sar in the Sky Sports studio was all the more fitting, drawing comparisons to the Dutchman who played 186 games for United.

That win was important as it keeps the Reds three points ahead of Liverpool and Chelsea and puts Carrick’s side just three points behind Aston Villa. 

Finally, United are starting to capitalise on those around them dropping points.

United next face Crystal Palace at home, who will likely adopt a defensive approach at Old Trafford. 

The Eagles have had a tough time replicating last season’s success, but they should still prove to be a difficult opponent.