Boss Baffled By Dropped Points

Sir Alex Ferguson was left bemused by his side’s inability to convert possession and goalscoring chances into three points as Swansea held the Reds to a frustrating stalement at the Liberty Stadium.

The boss was also angry with a number of key refereeing decisions throughout the games, including a foul on Robin van Persie in the lead up to Michu’s equaliser for Swansea. He was also angry with Swans defender Ashley Williams, who kicked the ball into van Persie’s head after the Dutchman had been fouled and was lying on the floor.

“How we didn’t win the game is the question of the year really because we absolutely battered them,” Sir Alex told MUTV. “We created a lot of chances and hit the post, the bar and there were a few scrambles in the box.

“In criticism, you would have to say that sometimes our final ball wasn’t good enough. In the second half it was an absolutely brilliant performance. But I’ve got to be disappointed with that result. We should have won the game by quite a margin really.”

Patrice Evra put United in front with another header from a set-piece – the Frenchman’s third goal of the season, which has doubled his Reds career tally to six. “We’ve done well from set-pieces this season an it’s a big improvement,” added the boss. “Patrice Evra has now got three goals and Jonny Evans has got three. That’s a good contribution they are making in terms of the goal tally for the season.”

However, disappointment and anger followed for the Reds boss. “I thought it was a foul [on van Persie] in the lead up to their goal, but then the referee had one of those days where we didn’t get anything, so I am not surprised we didn’t get the foul.

“Robin van Persie is lucky he wasn’t killed today. I think it was the most disgraceful thing I’ve seen for a long time. I think the FA should look into it. I know [Ashley Williams] was booked but irrespective of that it should be examined by the referee again because it was the most dangerous thing I’ve seen for years.”

Attentions now turn to Newcastle at Old Trafford on Boxing Day, then West Brom’s visit to Manchester on 29 December and the short trip to Wigan Athletic on New Year’s Day. “It is [a busy period],” added the boss. “And we just have to assess a few injuries.”