MANCHESTER, Oct 2: There was a trademark Cristiano Ronaldo celebration at Old Trafford on Saturday, even if it didn’t come from the Portugal superstar himself.
Everton winger Andros Townsend did a cheeky yet passable imitation of the spin-in-the-air celebration in front of his team’s jubilant fans after scoring the 65th-minute equalizer in a 1-1 draw at Manchester United.
With Ronaldo starting on the bench and not entering until the 57th, United produced another sloppy performance but managed to take the lead through Anthony Martial in the 43rd following an exquisite touch and pass by Bruno Fernandes.
Everton was dangerous on the counterattack throughout the game as United’s concentration and discipline waned in its third game in an eight-day span — and less than 72 hours after a home win against Villarreal in the Champions League sealed by Ronaldo’s late goal.
And the hosts were picked off on a break by Everton that resulted in Townsend’s goal, as Fred failed to gather possession in two attempted tackles in midfield following a corner by United before Abdoulaye Doucoure charged through to set up Townsend.
It was a fifth goal of the season for the winger, who has been revitalized since his move on a free transfer after leaving Crystal Palace.
Ronaldo also has five goals this season after joining United for a second spell, but couldn’t add to that total in a quiet cameo after coming off the bench. He had one shot but it flashed wide off his left foot. United dropped points for the third time this season and a week after losing 1-0 at home to Aston Villa.
Everton looked to have snatched the win when Yerry Mina tapped in from Tom Davies’ pass in the 75th, again as United’s defenders switched off, but the goal was ruled out for a narrow offside.
Leeds held on for its first victory of the Premier League season after defender Diego Llorente scored early in the 1-0 win over Watford.
Hwang Hee-chan’s two goals earned Wolverhampton a 2-1 victory over winless Newcastle who earned a goal through Jeff Hendrick.
Burnley and Norwich saw their winless starts to the Premier League continue as they fought out a 0-0 draw which provided a first point of the season for the Canaries. (AP)
