Everton secured a stunning 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on November 24, 2025, despite playing most of the match with just 10 players. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford revealed that manager David Moyes challenged his squad to prove they were a “proper team” by claiming this crucial win, which boosted their Premier League standing.
Moyes’ Motivational Words Spark Everton Triumph
Jordan Pickford opened up about the pre-match talk from David Moyes that fired up the Everton players. Moyes stressed that a win at Old Trafford would show the team’s true potential and help them climb the league table. This message came at a perfect time, as Everton faced a tough test against a resurgent Manchester United side under Ruben Amorim.
The victory marked Pickford’s first career win at the famous venue, a milestone he cherished after years of tough battles there. He highlighted how the team embraced Moyes’ words, focusing on their own performance rather than United’s recent form. This mindset shift proved vital, especially after an early setback that tested their resolve.
Pickford noted that Moyes was thrilled with the result, praising the intense training leading up to the game. The win not only earned three points but also built momentum for Everton’s busy schedule ahead, including upcoming fixtures against strong opponents.
Dramatic Red Card and Team Response
The match took a wild turn in the 13th minute when Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye received a red card for slapping teammate Michael Keane during an on-field argument. This left Everton with 10 men for 77 minutes, forcing them to defend fiercely against United’s attacks.
Despite the disadvantage, the team rallied. Pickford said the players quickly moved past the incident, focusing on unity and grit. Gueye later apologized at halftime, which helped clear the air and refocus the squad.
This resilience paid off, as Everton not only held firm but also took the lead. The red card could have derailed them, but it instead showcased their character, turning a potential disaster into a story of determination.
Key moments from the red card drama include:
- Gueye’s bizarre altercation with Keane, leading to his dismissal.
- Everton’s defensive adjustments, with players like James Tarkowski stepping up.
- The team’s ability to maintain composure, avoiding further mistakes.
Dewsbury-Hall’s Wonder Goal Seals the Deal
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall became the hero with a spectacular 29th-minute strike that proved to be the winner. Cutting inside from the edge of the box, he curled a left-footed shot past United’s goalkeeper, stunning the home crowd.
Pickford praised Dewsbury-Hall’s positioning and threat, noting his knack for finding space in dangerous areas. This goal was Everton’s reward for their bold approach, even shorthanded.
The second half saw United push hard, but Everton’s defense stood tall. Dewsbury-Hall’s effort highlighted the team’s attacking intent, proving they could threaten despite the odds.
Pickford’s Heroic Saves Keep United at Bay
Jordan Pickford delivered a masterclass in goalkeeping, making several crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. His stops, especially in the closing stages, denied United stars like Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount.
Pickford described the performance as a team effort, emphasizing how suffering together led to the result. His saves were pivotal, earning him man-of-the-match honors from many observers.
This win leveled Everton with United on points, shaking up the mid-table race. Pickford urged the team to build on this, looking ahead to maintain their form.
Here’s a quick look at Pickford’s key stats from the match:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Saves Made | 8 |
| Clean Sheets This Season | 5 |
| Minutes Played | 90 |
| Pass Accuracy | 72% |
Broader Impact on Premier League Standings
This result has big implications for both clubs. Everton’s victory ends a 12-year wait for a win at Old Trafford, boosting confidence under Moyes, who returned to the club with a point to prove.
For Manchester United, the loss halts their momentum, raising questions about their consistency. It underscores the Premier League’s unpredictability, where underdogs can triumph through sheer will.
Fans and analysts see this as a turning point for Everton, potentially sparking a climb up the table. Recent games show similar upsets, like Arsenal’s draw with Everton earlier in the season, highlighting the league’s competitive edge.
The win aligns with Everton’s improved form, including strong showings against top teams. It also reflects Moyes’ tactical nous, drawing from his past successes at the club.
What do you think about Everton’s gritty win? Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread the word on social media to join the conversation.
