By Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana’s error cost his team victory as Zeki Amdouni converted a late penalty to secure a crucial point for relegation-threatened Burnley in the Premier League clash at Old Trafford.
Despite an underwhelming performance from Erik ten Hag’s side, they appeared on course for victory after Antony’s well-taken 79th-minute goal.
However, reminiscent of his error against Wolves on the opening day, Onana rashly charged off his line in an attempt to clear the ball but instead collided with an opponent.
Although referee John Brooks missed the incident initially, the video assistant referee, Peter Bankes, intervened. Substitute Amdouni, despite the earlier clash with Onana, calmly dispatched the penalty, sending the keeper the wrong way.
The result brings Burnley within two points of fourth-bottom Nottingham Forest, setting up a crucial clash at Turf Moor on the final day of the season.
The result means that United are yet to secure consecutive league victories since February. With new technical director Jason Wilcox observing from the sidelines, the final whistle was met with boos from the home supporters, albeit not as vociferous as those prompted by Ten Hag’s decision to substitute teenage midfielder Kobbie Mainoo after 65 minutes.
Onana’s previous altercation with Wolves striker Sasa Kalajdzic has been a focal point in the numerous controversial VAR incidents this season.
Andre Onana Photo Courtesy: Getty Images
Antony celebrates goal with Diogo Dalot Photo Courtesy: Getty Images
At least referees’ chief Howard Webb can take solace in the fact that, on this occasion, the technology operated as intended at the same end of the same ground.
Burnley manager Vincent Kompany will also find some satisfaction in this outcome.
Antony, Casemiro Photo Courtesy: Peoples Person
Burnley could have capitalized further on their opportunities in this match. Onana thwarted Lyle Foster with an impressive reaction save in the first half, and the Burnley striker was once again denied by the United goalkeeper when he surged past Harry Maguire and aimed straight for the home goal.
Bruno Fernandes Photo Courtesy: Sky Sports
Nevertheless, regardless of how they accomplish it, Burnley will have to depend on the shortcomings of Forest and Luton in the coming three weeks to set the stage for a decisive final-day showdown against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, offering them a glimmer of hope in their battle for survival.
Source: BBC
