Sir Alex Ferguson Won’t Criticise Manchester United Despite Everton Defeat

Tuesday, 21st August, 2012

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has refused to criticise his team despite seeing them go down 1-0 away to Everton in their Premier League opener last night.

A powerful header from Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini in the 57th minute was enough to settle the contest and Manchester United, despite having Robin van Persie thrown on as a substitute in the second half, could not turn the game around.

Ferguson’s men did enjoy the lion’s share of possession, with 56% to Everton’s 44%, but shots on goal were slightly in favour of the Toffees, while shots on target were equal between the two teams, leaving only finishing as the difference.

And while that was something Ferguson accepted, he would not blast his players.

"I think it was a pretty good game", the Manchester United boss told MUTV.

"We had plenty of possession and made some great openings without actually finishing them.

"But I have no criticism of my team tonight, they applied themselves well."

Ferguson did see exciting signs for the season ahead too, with the Scot delighted at some neat interplay between his players at Goodison Park.

"We played really good football at times. We had some good combination play", added the Scot.

Next up for Manchester United is a visit from Fulham, before the Red Devils travel to newly promoted Southampton. After that they host Wigan and then play fierce rivals Liverpool at Anfield.