Manchester United secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford, but the match was overshadowed by a controversial VAR decision that overturned a penalty award, sparking criticism from pundit Troy Deeney towards Fulham's players.
VAR Overturns Penalty in Key Moment
The incident occurred when Fulham defender Jorge Cuenca went to ground in a challenge with United's Matheus Cunha. Initially, the referee pointed to the penalty spot, believing a foul had been committed inside the area.
However, VAR quickly intervened, with replays showing Cuenca had clearly won the ball before any contact. Officials determined that while Cuenca had committed a holding offence by pulling Cunha's shirt, the infringement began outside the penalty area.
Free-Kick Leads to Opening Goal
The referee announced to the stadium: "After review, the Fulham 15 commits a holding offence outside the penalty area. The final decision is a free kick to Manchester United."
Bruno Fernandes delivered the resulting free-kick into the danger zone, where Casemiro rose highest to head home, giving Manchester United an early advantage they would never relinquish.
Deeney's Verdict on Fulham's Reaction
Speaking on Match of the Day, former Watford striker Troy Deeney offered his analysis of the incident and Fulham's subsequent reaction.
Deeney said: "Let's talk about really good play here from Cunha. Cuenca will say he's done well, but again as an attacking player when you are pulling me back it slows me down here, to allow you to get back. If he doesn't pull, Cunha is away from him."
While acknowledging the correct decision was made, Deeney took issue with Fulham's players: "I think it ultimately becomes the right decision, the biggest issue I have with all of this is the way that Fulham celebrated this, high-fiving and not doing their job - the danger is there. They give a good decision here because it is outside the box."
Manager's Reaction and Match Outcome
Fulham manager Marco Silva received a yellow card for his angry protests as his side found themselves behind following the free-kick goal.
Despite the controversy, Manchester United capitalised on their early advantage to secure a 3-2 victory, maintaining their push in the Premier League standings while leaving Fulham to reflect on what might have been.
The incident highlights the ongoing debate around VAR implementation in football, with pundits and fans alike scrutinising both the decisions themselves and players' reactions to them.
