Craven Cottage was left in a state of disbelief and sheer fury on Saturday as Manchester United stole a dramatic 2-1 victory against Fulham, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty awarded after a lengthy VAR review.
The match, which had been a tight, cagey affair for over 90 minutes, exploded into life in the most controversial fashion. With the game seemingly destined for a draw, a United attack saw the ball strike the arm of Fulham defender Christian Romero from point-blank range.
Referee John Brooks initially waved play on, but was immediately instructed by the VAR official, Stuart Attwell, to review the incident on the pitchside monitor. After a long, tense delay, Brooks pointed to the spot, overturning his original decision.
Bruno Fernandes Seals the Deal
Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes, keeping his nerve amidst a cauldron of boos and protests from the livid home support, stepped up and coolly dispatched the penalty past a helpless Bernd Leno. The goal secured all three points for Erik ten Hag's side, sparking wild celebrations from the travelling fans and utter despair on the Fulham bench.
Marco Silva's Post-Match Outburst
Fulham manager Marco Silva did not hold back in his post-match press conference, launching a scathing attack on the officiating. "It is a complete disgrace," he fumed. "We played our hearts out, we were the better team for large parts, and to have it taken away by a decision like that is incredibly hard to accept. The players are devastated."
The contentious call overshadowed what was otherwise a fiercely contested London derby. Fulham had taken a deserved lead through Joao Palhinha in the first half, only for United to draw level in the second period through a Scott McTominay header.
The result sees Manchester United climb the Premier League table, while Fulham are left to rue what they feel are two points brutally stolen from them by the video assistant referee system.
