Fernandes’ goal sparked a quick-fire turnaround for United in their 2-1 victory, but debate raged about whether Rashford was offside
Manchester United’s equaliser against Manchester City was hugely controversial as debate raged over whether Bruno Fernandes’ strike should have been disallowed for offside.
The Portuguese fired home from just outside the area after running on to a pass behind the City backline by Raphael Varane. But City were furious, with Marcus Rashford – who the pass was originally intended for – clearly offside when the ball was played.
Rashford ran towards the ball but did not make contact, backing off to allow Fernandes to score as he raced onto the pass from midfield.
What was the reaction?
City were utterly furious, surrounding referee Stuart Attwell as he awarded the goal. They felt that defender Manuel Akanji may have been able to reach the ball if Rashford had not been offside, and that the striker was clear target of the intended pass.
What was the outcome?
United were emboldened by the goal, with Rashford scoring again almost immediately to give his side the lead and ultimately.