Everton fell to a 1-0 defeat to Manchester United at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday evening.
Jarrad Branthwaite felt Everton were unlucky not to pick up a result, but ultimately, the forwards weren’t efficient enough in front of goal.
Everton were really piling on the pressure, especially from set-pieces, with David Moyes’ side seemingly taking inspiration from Arsenal.
The Toffees were crowding United’s goalkeeper Senne Lammens at every opportunity and being very physical.
What’s your thoughts after that, Toffees? 😫
Three points were there for the taking!
Everton vs Man United full time score
Credit: Getty Images/Simon Stacpoole/Offside
Lammens dealt with it well, though, and Moyes heaped praise on him after the game: “I thought their goalkeeper did a great job. It looked like he would take every corner; it made it difficult for us.
“We didn’t expect the goalie to do what he did tonight. He was bloody brilliant tonight. For me, he was the best player tonight.”
Kobbie Mainoo made a reference to Everton’s set-piece tactics after the game, as he posted a WWE comparison on social media.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
What did you make to George’s cameo? 🧐
Tyrique George stats vs Man United.
Kobbie Mainoo aims sly dig at Everton’s set-piece tactics vs Man United
Mainoo posted a picture of Everton’s set-piece tactics to his Instagram story after the game last night.
The Man United midfielder then compared them to the WWE’s Royal Rumble, which is a chaotic wrestling event.
Mainoo compares Everton’s set-piece tactics to WWE! 🤔
Evidently, the United players had been discussing the Toffees’ tactics, as Lammens also made a comment about them in his post-match press conference, labelling them ‘over the top’.
“Everton are a physical team, their defenders are really big,” the Belgian goalkeeper explained.
“We knew the corners and set pieces would be difficult. It’s a strength of mine (dealing with crosses), but today it was a bit over the top!
“I had to be behind the line in order to come out. It was too much, but it can be difficult for the referee to see it.”
The Toffees are back in action on Saturday afternoon, as they take on Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
They’ll be up against Nick Pope from set-pieces, so it may be another challenging tactical battle, as he’s very dominant in his area.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox