Bruno Fernandes came agonisingly close to putting Manchester United on course for victory against Everton, but instead ended up making unwanted Premier League history during a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. Fernandes rattled the crossbar with a first-half volley before United twice took the lead through Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, only for Everton to fight back on both occasions. A stunning 95th-minute strike from Ainsley Maitland-Niles ultimately rescued a point for the hosts.
While Fernandes did not get his name on the scoresheet, his effort against the woodwork added another remarkable statistic to his Premier League career.
Bruno Fernandes Has Hit the Woodwork Six Times
No player has hit the woodwork more often in the Premier League since the start of last season than Bruno Fernandes, with the Manchester United captain doing so six times.
His latest effort came in the eighth minute at Everton, when Fernandes connected brilliantly with Bryan Mbeumo's clever header and struck a first-time volley that rattled the crossbar. It was an excellent attempt that left Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford with little chance had it been a few inches lower.
The statistic is particularly strange because Fernandes has been one of the Premier League's most productive attacking players during the same period.
The Portuguese midfielder enjoyed a phenomenal 2025/26 campaign, registering 21 Premier League assists, while his goalscoring contribution also remained significant.
Another Goal Almost Added to His Tally
Fernandes' near miss against Everton was especially frustrating given his excellent start to the 2026/27 season.
The United captain had already scored three goals and provided an assist in his first two Premier League appearances, including a spectacular hat-trick in the 5-2 victory over Ipswich.
Against Everton, however, he was unable to continue that goalscoring run. His biggest opportunity came when he struck the crossbar, while he also came close to releasing Matheus Cunha with a dangerous pass just before half-time.
What Next for Manchester United?
Manchester United and Bruno Fernandes will now turn their attention to the Champions League, with Sabah FK visiting Old Trafford on September 10. After dropping two points against Everton, United will be desperate for a response, while Fernandes will be looking to turn his impressive attacking influence into goals and assists. With Sabah making their Champions League debut, it represents an excellent opportunity for both United and their captain to make a statement in Europe.