Everton vs Manchester United: Moyes Praises Draw

David Moyes pleased with Everton's draw against Man United

Everton boss David Moyes praises James Garner's performance in 2-2 draw against Manchester United. Read more about the match.

“I thought Jimmy was probably our best player in many ways...”

Everton boss David Moyes expressed satisfaction with his team's performance in their preseason friendly against Manchester United, which ended in a 2-2 draw. The match saw Iliman Ndiaye score in the first half to cancel out Bruno Fernandes' early penalty for United. Mason Mount later gave Manchester United the lead, but a late own goal restored parity for Everton.

🔵 David Moyes on this evening's draw with Manchester United and his reflections on the Premier League Summer Series. pic.twitter.com/iIqhR6ldoM

— Everton (@Everton) August 4, 2025

Moyes highlighted the positives from the game, noting that his team executed their strategy effectively in the first half. However, he also pointed out areas for improvement, particularly in the second half where Everton's quality wasn't as evident. Moyes' primary goal now is to secure a win in their next match to bring happiness to their fans, who deserve it.

The draw has implications for both teams as they navigate their preseason preparations. For Everton, it's about building momentum and consistency, while Manchester United looks to refine their tactics under new boss Ruben Amorim. Amorim has acknowledged that Moyes is doing a better job than him, given Everton's current performance.

The draw was a morale boost for Everton, who had previously lost to Bournemouth and West Ham. Moyes emphasized that the team's performance was more encouraging this time around, with players like Ndiaye shining. Ndiaye scored a superb goal and led the match in duel count, winning 12 of 20 contested. Moyes hopes to build on this momentum as Everton prepares for their Premier League campaign against Leeds on August 18.

Everton boss David Moyes expressed satisfaction with his team's 2-2 draw against Manchester United in their preseason friendly. “I'm more pleased with tonight's game than I was with the other games because we got something from it,” Moyes told evertontv. The match saw Iliman Ndiaye score in the first half to cancel out Bruno Fernandes' early penalty for United. Mason Mount later gave Manchester United the lead, but a late own goal restored parity for Everton.

Moyes' comments suggest that he values the point earned from the draw, particularly given the team's recent performances. The draw has implications for both teams as they navigate their preseason preparations, with Everton looking to build momentum and consistency. Manchester United, meanwhile, continues to refine their tactics under new boss Ruben Amorim.

FT. Our final #PLSS game ends in a draw as we continue our preparations for the new season. 💪

Thank you to everyone who has backed us in the USA! 🇺🇸@EvertonInUSA pic.twitter.com/BZB1AeuetR

— Everton (@Everton) August 3, 2025

“But it wasn't so much the result, it was more the performance was much more encouraging. And look, to be fair, we weren't probably ready in the first two games regarding players fit and available for the games.

“But we knew that tonight we were a bit closer to something which looked like an Everton team. The other games, we've not really looked that way. So, yes, much happier tonight.”

Everton boss David Moyes praised James Garner's performance in their 2-2 draw against Manchester United, stating, “I thought Jimmy was probably our best player in many ways. I thought he grew into the game even as the game went on and kept going.” This impressive display showcases Garner's skills as a defensive midfielder, who has been instrumental in Everton's recent matches.

Garner, a former Manchester United youth player, has transitioned well to Everton since joining the club in 2022 for a reported £9 million transfer fee, potentially rising to £15 million with add-ons. He has become a key player for the Toffees, contributing significantly to their midfield. Moyes' comments highlight Garner's ability to adapt and perform under pressure, making him a valuable asset to the team.

“There are a few of them who’ve had 90 minutes, there are some who've not had 90 minutes. Some have had to play more 90s than we'd want because of the lack of depth we've got in the squad at the moment.

“But no, I'm really pleased. I thought Jimmy certainly had his best game and it was a bit more looking like the Jimmy I know tonight.”