Accusing referees or authenticity of the goals fired by the opponent is not a new thing especially in English soccer hence whenever there is a painful loss, it is mandatory that losing team will raise questions over the biasness of the game and last FA Cup game between Manchester United vs Preston was one such match that saw United almost crushed the North End side along with throwing them out of the competition and Preston manager Simon Grayson took no time in raising questions over all the three goals fired by the Manchester giants. Though, initial goal by Scott Laird gave Preston an early lead but it was not a lengthy joy as Ander Herrera leveled the score in no time. As far first United goal in concerned, 45-year-old mentor says it would have not been possible had Wayne Rooney not been on offside position causing interference with the play. The second goal for the Red Devils was a header by Marouane Fellaini but here too Preston feels defender Tom Clarke should have been awarded a free kick for a shove by the Belgian.
Talking about all the goals in detail, English mentor said in the post-match news conference, “Wayne Rooney wasn’t directly in line, he was just to the side. It is a grey area. For the second Tom Clarke was pushed by Fellaini and the third, Wayne Rooney has not been touched by the goalkeeper; yes, he has had to jump out of the way but he has not been touched.
“I am not saying it wasn’t a penalty. I am saying there was no contact. You can interpret that how you want. It wasn’t a dive. He has gone to get out of the way and take evasive action. I am not complaining but all three goals were slightly contentious.”
No reaction has until came either from the FA or Old Trafford side itself hence it is likely no one would take a note on Preston grievances about the refereeing in the game. While on the other side, ManU is celebrating their good form with hand in hand success on all English leagues and with the pace they are moving, it is possible they could give a tough fight to Chelsea or Manchester City in the English premier league as well. Anyways, Preston manager also showed his satisfaction over the performance of his players and added, “The players can wake up in the morning very proud of what they have done. I certainly am.”