Solskjaer reveals errors cost Manchester United three points

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has claimed that two incorrect refereeing decisions cost Manchester United three points against Sheffield United.

Under the lights at Old Trafford, the Red Devils hosted Sheffield United in a pivotal Premier League fixture almost a week ago.

Prior to the game, it seemed to be an easy task for Solskjaer’s in-form side. Then the table toppers, United only had to play to their strengths to secure all three points. On top of that, the Red Devils had not lost a game of football against Sheffield United since 1992. Confidence for a positive result was at its peak.

As the saying goes, there is no easy fixture in the Premier League. From the experience of past, United have had gone behind several times in this ongoing 2020-21 season but have also managed to force their way back into the game. It is as if they love playing with their backs against the wall.

More from Manchester United News

• Aaron Wan Bissaka out for ‘several weeks’ with injury
• Sofyan Amrabat set to miss game against Brighton
• Preview: Manchester United vs Brighton – What you need to know
• Jadon Sancho set to train away from first team squad
• Mike Phelan blasts Manchester United teammates over Ronaldo exit

Manchester United failed to make a comeback

This time it was a robust Sheffield United defence, the hungry hunters who had nothing to lose, standing between United and a potential comeback. In what was a controversial goal by Kean Bryan, United conceded the first of the night in the 23rd minute.

It looked as if the leap of Bryan had given him an unjust advantage over David de Gea. And hence, the Spaniard failed to gather the header directed towards the goal. Despite protests from the players, the goal stood.

The second controversial moment came when Anthony Martial guided the ball into the net following a situation where it was adjudged that Harry Maguire had unfairly stopped Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale from grasping the ball. The goal, thanks to the VAR technology, was ruled offside right away.

With United equalising through Maguire’s header, there was hope about another comeback. However, that also faded away as soon as Oliver Burke, scoring his first goal in the league, gave Chris Wilder’s men the advantage.

Ahead of the midweek’s Premier League clash against Southampton this Tuesday, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was found confirming that the officials had admitted that they were wrong with both controversial decisions.

In the pre-match press conference on Monday, as reported by BBC journalist Simon Stone, Solskjaer said:

"“Got the delegate’s report through and the two decisions were wrong. They have admitted our goal should have stood and theirs should not.”"

Manchester United currently sit at 2nd on the league table, only three points behind league leaders Manchester City. And as the Cityzens have a game in hand, the Red Devils need to win their upcoming Premier League games to make sure that they can keep up with Pep Guardiola’s side.