[AMERICANS ABROAD] Perennially slow starter Everton stunned Manchester United, 1-0, for a rare opening day victory for Tim Howard in goal for the Toffees.

Belgian Marouane Fellaini had the lone goal in the 57th minute to secure the victory, Everton's first on opening day in five years.

Fellaini was a handful for the suspect United backline and both he and Leon Osman hit the woodwork.

Howard got a lot of help from defender Phil Jagielka, who blocked one shot by United forward Danny Welbeck, tackled Welbeck to stop another dangerous opportunity in the second half and then cleared Tom Cleverley's shot off the line.

United brought on new signing Robin van Persie, but he could not make an impact.