Everton beat misfiring Man Utd to boost survival hopes

Everton beat Manchester United 1-0 on Saturday to boost their Premier League survival hopes and deal a blow to United's chances of finishing in the top four.

Victory at Goodison Park, courtesy of Anthony Gordon's first-half deflected effort, lifts Frank Lampard's team four points clear of the bottom three having played a game more than 18th-placed Burnley.

But United's season is in danger of imploding - they remain three points behind fourth-placed Tottenham having played a game extra and look increasingly unlikely to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Top-scorer Cristiano Ronaldo returned after missing last week's 1-1 draw with Leicester, along with out-of-form fellow forward Marcus Rashford.

United were content to let Everton pass the ball around in the spring sunshine in the early stages.

The visitors were the first side to threaten against a team desperately short of confidence following a string of disappointing results, including a 3-2 loss to Burnley in midweek.

AS IT HAPPENED | Everton 1-0 Man United

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made two fine early saves from Rashford, first keeping out a powerful drive and then scrambling low to his right to keep out a downward header.

The home side scored against the run of play in the 27th minute, courtesy of a huge deflection off the luckless Harry Maguire, who has struggled to find his form this season.

United lost the ball in midfield and Richarlison, initially forced wide on the left, cut the ball back towards the box, where it fell for Gordon.

The winger struck his shot well but a deflection off England defender Maguire left David de Gea stranded.

The goal lifted the tension and energised the home crowd and Everton came close to doubling their lead in the 36th minute,