Five things we learned from Manchester United's draw against Bournemouth on a tough Premier League evening at the Vitality Stadium.
Michael Carrick selected an unchanged starting XI as Manchester United travelled to face Bournemouth in a tough Premier League test on Friday evening.
The tie started with both sides having their fair share of shots on goal, and although the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Amad came close, the deadlock could not be broken before the first 45 minutes were concluded.
After 60 minutes had been played, United were handed a well-deserved lead as Fernanddes converted a penalty in his usual, calm fashion. However, the home side were able to fight back, with Ryan Christie slotting an equaliser home.
However, yet another dangerous Fernandes corner proved profitable, with United restoring their lead as Bournemouth's James Hill turned the ball into his own net.
With fewer than ten minutes to play, Harry Maguire then brought Evanilson in the area and was shown a red card, with Eli Junior Kroupi and making sure the points were shared on Friday evening.
#1 – A good first half for once
In the last four or so ties, United fans have complained about the lack of intensity in the first half of games, but against Bournemouth, the Reds started with plenty of intent.
Carrick's side created several big chances in the first half, forcing goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic into four saves, although they could not convert due to some stunning stops from the Serbian.
#2 – Mbeumo not quite getting to grips up front
While Bryan Mbeumo started the season brilliantly in Red, his form of late has been a lot more mixed. The Cameroon international has looked a little flat-footed with the ball at his feet, and this was present again during the first half.
When Šeško came on, he was unfortunate in the way that the Reds were a man down and being cautious, but the Slovenian should be starting once United return from the international break.
#3 – Cunha adapting well on the left
Earlier on in Carrick's reign, complaints were made about Matheus Cunha and his tendency to drift away from the left flank and conjecture the middle, but the tie against Boronemouth was another example of the Brazilian adapting to his new role.
Cunha did very well in the first half, sticking to the left while still using his energy and unpredictability to gain an advantage over Bournemouth's Álex Jiménez, creating multiple openings.
In the second half, it was his brilliant work off the left that won the penalty, and it was slightly perplexing to see him come off when United were down to ten men.
#4 – United completely robbed of a valid two points
There is no other way to describe the game than as one in which United were completely and utterly robbed of two points, given they secured only one of their rightful three.
Before Bournemouth's first goal, Amad was brought down in the box. The home side gained possession, ran up the other end of the pitch, and scored. The fact that the goal was not overturned for a United penalty is a blatant disgrace to the game.
#5 – Champions League still probable
Despite the horrid referee decision costing United a well-deserved three points, their ultimate goal of qualifying for the Champions League remains well intact.
It is now almost certain that the Premier League will be handed a fifth spot for next season's competition, and if Aston Villa were to win the Europa League and finish within the top five, this would go to sixth.
The two dropped points sting badly, considering they were unfairly snatched from the Reds, but their position remains strong.