Maitland-Niles scores stoppage-time stunner as Everton deny Manchester United

Ainsley Maitland-Niles marked his Everton debut with a spectacular stoppage-time equaliser as his side fought back twice to draw 2-2 with Manchester United at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The deadline-day signing from Lyon struck deep into added time, curling an unstoppable effort into the top-left corner after Everton had only partially cleared a pull-back. Senne Lammens was given no chance as the ball flew beyond him, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.

The result extends Everton’s unbeaten start to the season and gives David Moyes’ side a much-needed boost after a turbulent week dominated by frustrations during the transfer window.

Manchester United, meanwhile, will be disappointed to have surrendered the lead twice. They appeared to be heading for their first away victory of the season before Maitland-Niles produced the final dramatic twist.

United had controlled much of a first half that offered few clear openings. Bruno Fernandes came closest for the visitors when his effort struck the crossbar, while Marcus Rashford provided a threat from the left flank.

The visitors eventually broke the deadlock shortly after the interval through Bryan Mbeumo. The forward carried the ball into the Everton penalty area before delivering another composed finish, curling his shot beyond Jordan Pickford.

Everton initially struggled to create a response but began to grow into the contest. Thierno Barry headed over from Merlin Rohl’s cross, before Jarrad Branthwaite forced Lammens into action.

Moyes then made changes in an attempt to revive his side, bringing on Jack Grealish and Hayden Hackney. The substitutions helped Everton increase the pressure, with Hackney making a decisive contribution to the equaliser.

The midfielder supplied Tyrique George, who produced a fierce finish at the near post to beat Lammens and make it 1-1 with only five minutes remaining.

United quickly regained control of the match. In the 88th minute, Benjamin Sesko rose to meet Luke Shaw’s cross and headed past Pickford to put Manchester United 2-1 ahead.

That goal appeared to have settled the contest, but Everton continued to push forward and refused to accept defeat.

With virtually the final kick of the match, the ball fell to Maitland-Niles after Hackney’s pull-back had been only partly cleared. The former Lyon player reacted first, shaping a superb effort into the top corner to complete a remarkable Everton comeback.

The draw caps a dramatic finale in which Manchester United moved in front twice but were unable to protect either advantage. Everton’s players and supporters were left to celebrate a result that seemed beyond them until the final moments.

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