Fellaini Helps Everton Stun Manchester United

Everton's Marouane Fellaini celebrates his goal that turned out to be the winner against Manchester United. (Peter Powell)

One of the biggest storylines coming into this Premier League season was Dutch scoring machine Robin van Persie's 24 million pound transfer from Arsenal to Manchester United. United was already among the favorites to win the Premier League. With the addition of van Persie, the United faithful were already salivating about the possibilities. Manchester United got their first chance to prove themselves at Everton on Monday evening.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson made the interesting choice to leave van Persie on the bench to begin the game. Injuries also led to changes in the United starting lineup. The only regulars in the back four were Antonio Valencia at right back and Nemanja Vidic in the center. The defensive uncertainty was evident from the very beginning. Everton got a number of good opportunites in the first half, but all were denied by Machester United goalkeeper David de Gea.

Marouane Fellaini was an attacking machine for Everton throughout the game. The midfielder from Belgium created his own shots, set up others with opportunities, and wreaked havoc on the United defense. Fellaini's efforts were finally rewarded in the 57th minute. On the Everton corner kick, midfielder Darron Gibson sent a cross into the box. Fellaini rose up and headed it inside the near post for the goal. Just like that, Everton was suddenly up 1-0.

In the 68th minute, van Persie got his first opportunity with Manchester United as he came on as a substitute. As Everton began to sit back defensively, United gained more possession and scoring opportunities. Their best chance to level the score probably came in the 79th minute. Van Persie worked the ball down the right side and managed to find a charging Shinji Kagawa. Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard came out and made the save though to protect his lead. Manchester United had a few more opportunities, but came up empty.

As the final whistle blew, the Everton crowd cheered their side's hard fought victory. The win was only Everton's fourth home victory over Manchester United in 21 Premier League matches. The win is huge for the home boys, Everton. Wins this big don't come around that often, especially this early in the season. Fellaini was the definite man of the match. His play was clearly the difference in jump starting the Everton offense and testing the United defense.

The opening match loss is very disappointing for Manchester United. The team seemed to have definite rust, and their inexperience playing together was evident. United will have to work hard to get everyone healthy and van Persie integrated into the scheme in order to begin playing better. It will be interesting to see how they rebound from this disappointing loss.