Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko came off the bench to score the solitary goal that secured a 1-0 victory for Manchester United at Everton, propelling the Red Devils into the Premier League’s top four. Under interim manager Michael Carrick, United’s impressive run of form continued with this crucial away triumph.
Since taking charge, Carrick has overseen six matches in which Sesko has yet to start, but the young striker has consistently delivered off the bench. This was his third decisive impact in a similar role, having scored late winners or equalisers in previous fixtures.
At Goodison Park, Sesko replaced Amad Diallo in the 58th minute. Just 13 minutes later, he capitalised on a swift counter-attack to calmly slot the ball home in the 71st minute, marking his sixth goal in seven matches.
The goal originated from a precise long pass by Mateus Cunha, picked up by Bryan Mbeumo, who outmaneuvered the defender and squared the ball for Sesko to finish with composure.
Despite enjoying greater possession in the first half, United struggled to convert control into clear-cut opportunities. Early on, James Tarkowski cleared a Diallo shot off the line to deny the hosts. Efforts from Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes were off target, leaving the match scoreless at halftime.
Everton emerged slightly more assertive in the second period. Harrison Armstrong had a notable chance but failed to capitalise, while Michael Keane’s long-range effort was superbly saved by United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, ensuring the visitors secured their first away clean sheet since March.
The victory marked United’s fifth win in six matches, lifting them to 48 points from 27 games and into fourth place, just three points behind third-placed Aston Villa.
Meanwhile, Everton’s hopes of competing in European competitions suffered a setback. The Toffees remain ninth with 37 points from 27 matches, continuing a seven-game winless streak at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium under manager David Moyes.
Premier League Standings Snapshot
| Position | Team | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Aston Villa | 27 | 15 | 6 | 6 | 51 |
| 4 | Manchester United | 27 | 14 | 6 | 7 | 48 |
| 9 | Everton | 27 | 10 | 7 | 10 | 37 |
Sesko’s impact off the bench highlights United’s growing depth and resilience under Carrick. With consistent performances like this, the Red Devils are firmly in contention for a top-three finish, while Everton must urgently address their struggles to maintain European aspirations.
This victory not only reinforces United’s top-four credentials but also underscores the significance of tactical substitutions, demonstrating how a single decisive impact can define crucial league outcomes.