Marcus Rashford delights as ‘smelly’ Man United punish ‘lazy Everton star’
Marcus Rashford’s “beautiful” strike delighted Dean Ashton as Man United took the lead in “smelly” fashion against Everton.
Ruben Amorim collected his first Premier League victory in emphatic fashion as his side easily put away Everton 4-0 at Old Trafford on 1 December. Braces from Joshua Zirkzee and Rashford saw the Red Devils home.
The hosts attempted to sign visiting defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the summer and it was a game to forget for the Toffees defender, inadvertently contributing to the Red Devils’ first two goals. Rashford’s low strike deflected in off the centre-back’s outstretched boot for the opener to break solid Everton resistance to that point.
He then dawdled on the ball allowing Amad Diallo to nip in and feed Bruno Fernandes, who laid it off for Zirkzee to convert.
Dean Ashton said in regard to United’s opening goal on Sky Sports News (14:05): “It’s a smelly goal that has gone in… Your thinking it’s going to be something special because Fernandes has taken the corner and he just drills it out sort of [David] Beckham-esque to the edge of the area where Rashford is completely free… Branthwaite sort of lazily just sticks a leg out thinking he has to put something on it.
“When it comes out Rashford catches it beautifully on the half volley with his side foot. It’s going to the far post, it’s debatable whether it’s going to go in or hit the post. I don’t think Pickford is going to get across, maybe Branthwaite feels he has to react. It comes of the bottom of his studs and past [Jordan] Pickford for the Man United opener.”
Man United see Joshua Zirkzee flourish under Ruben Amorim
Football Insider opinion
The result leaves Everton 15th in the league, just two points above the relegation zone, as pressure continues to mount on manager Sean Dyche. Meanwhile the Red and White Army move up to ninth and are just four points of the top four as they prepare to face Arsenal next.
Rashford has flourished under Amorim, scoring three goals in two Premier League games. Whether playing as a centre forward or in a narrow attacking midfield role in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation, the England international has become a consistent attacking threat, running at defenders with confidence and pace.
Dutchman Zirkzee has already doubled his goal tally for the season in just one game under Ruben Amorim, showcasing a growing impact under the Portuguese head coach despite links to an exit.
United’s striker doubled their lead in the match with a close-range finish from another Fernandes assist after Branthwaite had lost possession in Everton territory.
His link-up and hold-up play, as well as his passing flourished, offering United a much-needed presence in attack. The 23-year-old striker almost helped the Red Devils open the scoring in the first 10 minutes, providing a perfect pass to Amad Diallo, who squandered the opportunity.
Zirkzee then played a key role in Rashford’s third goal, flicking the ball to Diallo and using his six-foot-four frame to bully the Blues defence. His physicality and intelligent play were crucial in the buildup.
There was a lot to be pleased with for United but after going behind in unfortunate fashion it was much the opposite for Dyche and Everton.
In other news, United scouts have been closely watching Matheus Cunha this season.
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