WATCH NOW: Paul Coyte discusses the latest sport headlines February 21 2025
Manchester United and Everton shared the points in an enthralling 2-2 draw at Goodison Park
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Bruno Fernandes inspired a remarkable Manchester United comeback as they fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday.
The United captain transformed the match with a stunning free-kick in the 72nd minute, sparking a revival that saw Manuel Ugarte grab an equaliser eight minutes later.
Ruben Amorim's side had looked destined for a third successive defeat after a poor first-half display left them trailing to goals from Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure.
The dramatic turnaround earned a vital point for United, who had failed to register a shot on target until Fernandes's brilliant strike changed the complexion of the match.
Bruno Fernandes helped United come back from 2-0 down against Everton
PA
Everton dominated the opening period, with Beto continuing his impressive scoring run by netting his fifth goal in four games.
United's defensive frailties were exposed as they failed to clear their lines from a corner, allowing Beto to fire home after reacting quickest to a bouncing ball.
The hosts doubled their advantage through Doucoure, who capitalised on more poor defending from the visitors.
Harry Maguire was caught static after Andre Onana had saved from Jack Harrison, allowing Doucoure to leap in and head home Everton's second.
The defensive display from United was described as "dreadful" as they struggled to cope with Everton's attacking threat, with multiple instances of two United defenders challenging for the same ball.
The momentum shifted dramatically when Fernandes delivered United's first shot on target of the game, curling a magnificent free-kick into the bottom corner after Doucoure had blocked his initial set-piece with his arm.
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The Portuguese star's influence continued to grow as he orchestrated United's equaliser, delivering the free-kick that eventually led to Ugarte's well-taken half volley in the 80th minute.
Fernandes's inspirational performance completely changed the perspective of the match, with United showing the passion and desire that had been missing in the previous 70 minutes.
Both Beto and Fernandes had opportunities to find a winner in the closing stages, but neither could convert their chances into a decisive goal.
The drama continued into stoppage time when referee Andy Madley initially awarded Everton a penalty after Ashley Young went down under challenges from Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire.
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Everton had a last-minute penalty overturned by VAR
PA
However, following a VAR review, Madley was directed to check the pitchside monitor and controversially overturned his original decision, much to the anger of the home crowd.
The point earned provides some relief for under-pressure United manager Ruben Amorim, whose side had been just 12 points above the relegation zone before kick-off.
The final 20 minutes marked a remarkable turnaround for United, giving their beleaguered boss something to build on despite remaining in a precarious position in the table.
The result maintains David Moyes's impressive transformation of Everton, who sit a point above United and 14 points clear of the bottom three.
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