Fernandes inspires Man Utd fightback to salvage draw at Everton

Bruno Fernandes led Manchester United's comeback from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Everton at Goodison Park on saturday, preventing another damaging defeat for Ruben Amorim.

United seemed destined for their ninth loss in 13 league matches after first-half goals from Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure put Everton 2-0 ahead within 33 minutes.

The visitors had failed to register a single shot on target until Fernandes' free-kick 18 minutes from time sparked the revival. Manuel Ugarte then capitalised on a poor clearance to level the score.

Late drama unfolded in stoppage time when Everton were awarded a penalty after Ashley Young was brought down by Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt. However, referee Andy Madley overturned the decision following a VAR review, ensuring United escaped with a point.

The draw lifted Everton to 12th place, while United remain 15th.

Everton's resurgence under David Moyes has been remarkable. Since the Scot returned for his second spell last month, they have collected 14 points from a possible 18, securing their top-flight status for another season. Moyes' impact contrasts sharply with Amorim's struggles at United, where the Portuguese coach has overseen just three wins in 13 Premier League games since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in november.

The Toffees, playing their final matches at Goodison Park before moving to a new 53,000-capacity stadium next season, started strongly. They capitalised on United's defensive frailties to open the scoring in the 19th minute. A chaotic scramble from a corner saw the ball break for Beto, who struck into the ground and over Andre Onana.

Beto, rejuvenated under Moyes with five goals in his last four league outings, was instrumental in the second. His run behind United's backline created space for Jack Harrison, whose shot was parried by Onana, allowing Doucoure to outmuscle Maguire and head home the rebound.

Everton nearly extended their lead early in the second half, with Doucoure forcing a fine save from Onana. But Fernandes once again proved United's driving force. His curling free-kick wrong-footed Jordan Pickford to halve the deficit.

The equaliser came from another Fernandes set-piece. Beto's headed clearance fell perfectly for Ugarte, who drilled home his first goal for United.

Both sides pushed for a winner in a frantic finale. Beto's close-range header was straight at Onana, while Pickford tipped Fernandes' dipping strike over the bar.

United's luck held when Young's penalty appeal was overturned, sparing Amorim further scrutiny.