Aston Villa’s Dean Smith has claimed that Manchester United were undeserving of the penalty that allowed them beat his side 2 – 1 in an English Premier League game played on Monday night.
The Red Devils had taken the lead through Anthony Martial before Bertrand Traore drew level for the visitors just before the hour mark.
But, things didn’t stay that way after Paul Pogba went to ground in the box and the hosts were given a penalty.
Bruno Fernandes converted from the spot – his 15th successful attempt from 12 yards since arriving at Old Trafford a year ago.
“I thought it was a penalty at the time, but I looked at it after the game and saw he tripped himself. I don’t see why [referee] Michael Oliver couldn’t have looked at it. That’s what VAR is for isn’t it?” he told Sky Sports.
“He’s tripped himself up. There are margins in football. I’ve seen it again, and I don’t think it’s a penalty.”
Overall, he was pleased with how his side responded after a disappointing start to the game.
“First half we were miles off it. The first 15 minutes felt like a testimonial,” he said. “Then they injected some pace into it and deservedly went ahead.
“I asked for more at half-time and we deserved to get back in the game. Our goalkeeper has had to make some good saves but they were all outside the box.
“We know we’re on a good journey at the moment. We believe we’ve got five key arrivals to go with the players who are Premier League ready now.
