Amorim Criticizes Manchester United's First-Half Performance Despite Comeback

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim slammed his team's first-half performance despite their comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Everton.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim expressed his disappointment with his team's first-half performance, despite their impressive comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday. Amorim acknowledged that his team was substandard in the opening period, saying, “We just played one half and we managed to draw the game, we didn't exist in the first half.” United's struggles in the first half were evident, as they failed to muster a shot on target and conceded two goals to Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure.

The visitors' lackluster first-half display was characterized by careless mistakes and an inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Amorim noted, “Everything we did during the week, I think the free man was there, I think the space was there, I think we lose balls we cannot lose.” However, United's fortunes changed in the second half, as fine finishes from Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte rescued a point for the visitors.

Amorim revealed that he had urged his players to adopt a more energetic approach in the second half, saying, “For the second half, I said no matter what, we are going to do what we did during the week but with a little bit more energy.” The manager acknowledged that every game has its unique challenges and that he focuses on helping his players overcome them. Amorim concluded, “I know that every game has a history, so in that moment I just focus on trying to help my players. Now I am going to be worried when I see the games like this in the first half.”

Manchester United's 2-2 draw against Everton was nearly undone by a late penalty decision, but a VAR review ultimately overturned the on-field call, preserving the point for United. The penalty was initially awarded for a foul on Ashley Young, but after a review, the decision was reversed, much to the relief of United manager Ruben Amorim.

Everton manager David Moyes, however, was left frustrated by the decision, feeling that the on-field referee's initial call should have stood. “I think everybody who watches football we are all looking forward to a referee saying no I am sticking to what I have done,” Moyes said. “They are being told they are absolutely wrong. If it was absolutely clear and obvious, that is what we have got VAR for.”

"We didn't exist in the first half."

Watch as Ruben Amorim gives his reaction to Man Utd's second-half comeback that secured a point against Everton

— Premier League (@premierleague) February 22, 2025

Moyes expressed his disappointment with the VAR system, suggesting that referees should be more confident in their decisions. “I am too old to get involved and start fighting the world again,” he said. “I thought the referee made the correct decision at the time and he should stick with it.” Moyes' comments reflected his frustration with the inconsistent application of VAR, which he feels can undermine the authority of on-field referees.

Here are some fitting title and search description options: