This was certainly not the Manchester United that ruled English football for so long.
But there was no shame for Everton or Duncan Ferguson in, towards the end, clinging to a point that will, no doubt, boost confidence ahead of Wednesday's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Leicester.
Like they did a week earlier at Goodison Park, Ferguson's side played in the image of their manager; aggressive, willing, determined and solid in the face of adversity.
Adversity, perhaps, is not a strong enough word to describe the injury crisis currently crippling Everton's campaign and forcing the manager into picking Mason Holgate as a central-midfielder.
So where does the point leave Ferguson?
With Farhad Moshiri, Bill Kenwright and Marcel Brands all watching from the stands, he is undoubtedly in an even stronger position than 90 minutes previous.
A head-scratcher of a decision is being made even more difficult by what Ferguson has brought to the table in a mind-blowingly short space of time.
Everton inspired the travelling support into roars of frenzy at times with their commitment and simplicity. It went long when it had to, but they were not afraid to try and play when the moment was right.
How Everton's players rated in the 1-1 draw at Manchester United - click here
This team is everything that Marco Silva could not provide in the dismal, dying embers of his reign.
The embarrassment at Anfield felt light-years away from what was served up on a rainy day at Old Trafford when Ferguson, once again, could not settle on the touchline.
He was up and down – with his blazer on and off – for the entirety and once again went parading down the line when Victor Lindelof turned the ball into his own net.
Moshiri is not in an ideal situation. Candidates aren't exactly forthcoming unless Carlo Ancelotti, perhaps, could be tempted.
But Everton supporters would not get sick of Ferguson-ball until the end of the season on this evidence.
Every man looks inspired to play under the Scot and it has completely transformed the mood.
Even down the M62 you could feel a Goodison energy from the Everton support.
Victory on Wednesday could seal the deal for Duncan to be at the wheel of this rollicking, racing and riotous bus for a little longer than expected.
