April 27, (THEWILL)- Manchester United’s hopes of finishing in the top four in the English Premier League, were dented after being held to a 1-1 draw by relegation-threatened Burnley at Old Trafford. Antony had put the hosts ahead in the 79th minute, only for Burnley substitute Zeki Amdouni, to equalise from the penalty spot four minutes from time after Andre Onana clumsily brought him down in the box.
It was a crucial point for Vincent Kompany’s Clarets in their battle to beat the drop. After squandering several good chances in the first half through Wilson Odobert and Lyle Foster, they looked set for defeat when Antony broke the deadlock late on. However, Amdouni kept his composure to convert the spot kick past Onana.
Despite dominating possession, Manchester United lacked a cutting edge in attack for long periods. Bruno Fernandes hit the post in the first half and Alejandro Garnacho went close twice after the break, but goalkeeper Arijanet Muric produced a string of fine saves to keep Burnley in the contest.
The result leaves United still needing points to cement a top four berth, while Burnley remain in the bottom three but are now just two points from safety with four games remaining. Manager Erik ten Hag will be frustrated by his side’s profligacy in front of goal on a night when victory was crucial.
After this setback, United must quickly regroup before their next EPL fixture at home to Brentford on Saturday, May 4. For Burnley, the survival scrap goes on with a crunch away at relegation rivals Nottingham Forest looming next weekend.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
