Leicester City had history beckoning them as a win at Old Trafford would have guaranteed the 2015/16 Premier League title. However, there was the small matter of beating Manchester United to achieve that feat.
In the end, the task proved too much for The Foxes who now have to wait for another week to get their hands on the trophy which has virtually been theirs for a number of weeks now.
As for Manchester United, their top-4 quest for the season took a hit after they dropped 2 vital points at home. Louis Van Gaal’s job depends on where United finish this season, so dropping points tonight could have serious ramification on the Dutch manager in coming weeks.
On that note, we take a look at the key talking points and things learned from Manchester United’s 1-1 draw vs Leicester at Old Trafford.
Fellaini facing a 3-match ban for violent conduct?
No love lost between Huth and Fellaini. https://t.co/knqoKsCQJ2
— Arsène's Son ? (@hughwizzy) May 1, 2016
We all know Marouane Fellaini is a difficult character to contain when he reaches that irritated zone of his. He showed his naughty side tonight after lashing out with his elbow on Leicester’s defender Robert Huth.
Couple of days ago, Dele Alli was charged and punished on the base of a video evidence. Looking at the above footage, one gets the feeling that we could be seeing the same action taken against Manchester United’s midfielder in coming days.
Leicester showing sign of nerves?
It is often said that the last few yards are the hardest of any race and perhaps Leicester are feeling the same pressure at the moment. They know how close they are from clinching the most remarkable Premier League title ever which has got them playing a more cautious brand of football in recent weeks.
They could have easily been pegged by a more efficient Manchester United side had they had got their finishing sorted out. Jesse Lingard, Chris Smalling and Wayne Rooney missed good chances as once again Leicester’s defense held on to earn a vital away point for their team.
The Foxes would now be hopeful of a favor from Chelsea tomorrow night as a draw or defeat for Spurs would see Leicester crowned as the new Premier League Champions.
Leicester missed Jamie Vardy tonight
Time and time again tonight Leicester had the chance to play long ball but had no outlet in Jamie Vardy’s absence. The English striker served his final match of the ban received for his violent conduct against match official Jon Moss after being sent off against West Ham.
Leo Ulloa and Shinji Okazaki are not in the same league as Vardy considering his pace and 22 goals this season. Leicester would welcome their talisman next weekend as they look to clinch the Premier League title at their home ground – King Power Stadium.
Was that a penalty on Memphis Depay?
Late in the game, Danny Drinkwater tussled with Memphis Depay and brought him down to get his second yellow card and a subsequent red card as well. However, ref Mike Oliver decided not to award United a penalty despite the contact initiated on edge of the penalty box and it carried further.
In the end, Memphis tumbled inside the box but ref only decided to award United a free kick outside the penalty box. Fans were left gutted with the decision as it would have won the game for United given the incidence occurred in 86th minute of the match.
Top-4 race intensifies even further
Manchester United blew their chance to close the gap on Manchester City who at the time of writing were losing 1-0 against Southampton. If City lose tonight then the gap between Manchester rivals would just be a point with United having a game in hand as well.
Top-4 fight this season has been as fascinating as the title race. Arsenal now look to have pulled away from both Manchester clubs and will finish in the third position however United and City will have to battle it out for the right to play in Champions League next season.
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