Bournemouth captain Adam Smith has made a stunning claim that Manchester United players privately agreed a pivotal refereeing decision was incorrect during Monday night's Premier League thriller at Old Trafford.
Controversial Call Overshadows Eight-Goal Spectacle
The match, which ended in a dramatic 4-4 draw, was overshadowed for the Cherries by a major refereeing error from official Simon Hooper. The incident occurred when Smith was penalised for handball just outside the area, with Bruno Fernandes scoring directly from the resulting free-kick.
Smith insists the ball struck him high on the bicep, almost on the shoulder, from a distance of barely one yard. He described the decision as "unfathomable" and expressed deep frustration that Hooper refused to offer any explanation at the time.
"Even United Players Said It Wasn't Handball"
The veteran defender, who has been with Bournemouth for over a decade, revealed the surprising reaction from the opposition. "He didn't even want to talk to me, which is even more disappointing," Smith said. "Even the Man United players said it wasn't handball!"
Smith detailed the exchange, stating Hooper told him, "I don't want to talk to you right now," before booking the Bournemouth player after Fernandes' goal. "As a defender I just do not know what to do anymore," Smith added, highlighting the confusion over current handball interpretations.
Decision Shifts Momentum in Chaotic Encounter
The controversial moment proved to be a major turning point in a breathless encounter. Bournemouth had fought back from a goal down to lead 3-2 early in the second half and seemed to be controlling the game.
Hooper's decision and Fernandes' superb finish reignited the contest, leading to a final flurry of goals. Matheus Cunha subsequently put United ahead before Eli Junior Kroupi netted a late equaliser for the visitors.
Smith believes his side were denied a famous victory. "We should have won. I was honestly gutted not to win," he stated, pointing to United's vulnerability on the counter-attack.
The result extends Bournemouth's winless run to seven Premier League matches, but Smith feels their performances deserve more. "It's been little things that have gone against us," he concluded, citing the officiating at Old Trafford as a prime example.
