At Hill Dickinson Stadium on 6/9, Man Utd initially led through Bryan Mbeumo's solo effort, before Everton equalized with Tyrique George's shot into the top corner. The Red Devils believed they had secured all three points when substitute striker Benjamin Sesko scored with a header in the 88th minute. However, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Maitland-Niles, on his Everton debut, surged from midfield and fired into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Senne Lammens rooted as he sealed the draw.

"We are disappointed," Carrick said post-match. "Twice we were close to victory, but we ended up leaving with this result. It feels like we just suffered a defeat, even though we secured one point. Man Utd deserved more."

Coach Michael Carrick applauds fans after Man Utd's 2-2 draw with Everton in the third round of the Premier League at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool, England, on 6/9. *Photo: Man Utd*.

Carrick praised his team's attacking performance, though he admitted Man Utd should have scored more than two goals. He also noted that Everton's two goals came from excellent shots, suggesting that Man Utd is unlikely to concede such goals regularly.

This marks only the second time in 50 years that Man Utd have conceded two or more goals in each of their opening three league matches, a statistic last seen in the 2020-2021 season. Previously, Man Utd lost 0-2 to Hull City and secured a 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town.

After three rounds, Man Utd has recorded one win, one draw, and one loss, placing them 11th with 4 points. Despite this, Carrick dismissed claims of a poor start to the season. "Not bad at all," he stated. "Today, we were just a step away from victory. That's football. There were moments we could have managed better, but the team is still in good shape."

Man Utd's upcoming schedule includes a match against Azerbaijan's Sabah on 10/9 in the first leg of the champions league qualifying round, followed by a premier league clash against Man City this weekend. "The next two matches will be different," Carrick stated. "Today provided many positives to build upon. We've learned valuable lessons from the Hull, Ipswich, and today's matches. However, there are still areas we need to improve."

Benjamin Sesko echoed Carrick's disappointment, lamenting Man Utd's inability to secure the win. "Conceding a goal in that manner in the final minute is truly painful, especially when the entire team fought hard for three points," he remarked. "In moments where a single, late shot decides everything, it's a very tough feeling."

Despite the setback, the Slovenian striker focused on the positives. He expressed satisfaction at returning to play for Man Utd, emphasizing that scoring and contributing points are his primary responsibilities. Sesko urged the team to quickly move past the result, learn from their shortcomings, and prepare for the next fixture.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Manutd.com)