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      Man Utd vs Middlesbrough LIVE REACTION: Elanga MISSES crucial penalty as Boro WIN FA Cup fourth-round classic – latest

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      MIDDLESBROUGH have defeated Manchester United on penalties in an FA Cup fourth-round thriller.Anthony Elanga missed the crucial spot-kick in a stunning shoot-out which Boro won 8-7 after the tie ended 1-1 following extra time.

      Kick-off: 8pm GMT
      TV/ live stream: ITV 1/ ITV Hub
      Manchester United XI: Henderson, Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Shaw, McTominay, Pogba, Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Sancho Ronaldo.
      Middlesbrough XI: Lumley, Dijksteel, Fry, McNair, Jones, Howson, Crooks, Tavernier, Taylor, Balogun, Sporar

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      Rangnick speaks on Lingard
      Ralf Rangnick has spoken on the Jesse Lingard situation following the FA Cup humbling to Middlesbrough, on which Lingard was not in the squad.
      Rangnick had said Lingard asked for some time off to “clear his head”, which Lingard has denied.
      Rangnick said: “We were one outfield player less on the team sheet, so why would I have allowed him [Lingard] to have four or five days off, I would have loved to have had him in the squad.”
      Rangnick speaks on Elanga penalty
      Boss Ralf Rangnick said: “Anyone can imagine how he [Elanga] is, he is shattered and absolutely disappointed.
      “We will try to encourage him [Elanga] again, be there for him and it can happen to more experienced players. We could not have had more players to take it, there was Luke Shaw, Phil Jones and the goalkeeper.”
      That’s all from Old Trafford
      Manchester United crash out of the FA Cup after losing to Middlesbrough on penalties.
      The Red Devils were dominant throughout the game but did not make the most of the goalscoring opportunities they created.
      Chris Wilder will be delighted with the result as his team sail through to the FA Cup fifth round.
      Thank you for reading, and goodnight!
      Credit: Getty
      Why was Middlesbrough’s goal allowed to stand?
      The new law states that ‘If an attacking player’s accidental handball immediately precedes another player scoring, the goal will now be awarded, when last season it was likely to have been ruled out.’
      Watmore’s accidental handball occurred before he passed the ball to Crooks, who scored the equalising goal.
      Chris Wilder reacts
      “I talked to the players about making memories and taking that opportunity. Listen, not always the best team wins and we’re up against world class players and you know you’re going to be up against it.”
      “We missed a few chances, we rode our luck at times but we showed plenty of spirit.”
      “I thought straight away that it was hand ball.”
      “There were a few doubters on the side when penalty takers five and six with a combined age of about 110 stepped up, but yeah they were really good!”
      Duncan Watmore reacts
      “If I’m honest it was completely accidental so I was hoping it wouldn’t be [disallowed].”
      “Me and Crooksy were in a United age group together here so it was quite special for us.”
      Paddy McNair reacts
      “It was unbelievable! I thought we started the first half quite slow but in the second half we played really well.”
      “I felt confident hitting it [the penalty] and thankfully it went in!”
      “I think obviously they weren’t taking their chances so every time they missed it gave us a bit of a lift.”
      “In the last 10 games we’ve won eight so we’re on very good form. When you come to a stadium like this you have to ride your luck at times but I think overall we took it to penalties and I think that was a great way to finish it.”
      Full Time (AET) Manchester United 1-1 Middlesbrough (PENS 7-8)
      Ralf Rangnick will be incredibly frustrated with that result.
      The Red Devils should have scored a number of goals in the first half alone, but they simply could not finish their chances.
      Meanwhile, Chris Wilder will be delighted as his team head through to the FA Cup fifth round.
      Full Time (AET) Manchester United 1-1 Middlesbrough (PENS 7-8)
      Manchester United have been knocked out of the FA Cup!
      Middlesbrough are through after an intense penalty shootout.
      Credit: Getty
      Penalties – Man Utd 7-8 Middlesbrough
      Elanga strikes over!
      Middlesbrough are through!
      Man Utd are OUT!
      Penalties – Man Utd 7-8 Middlesbrough
      Peltier scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 7-7 Middlesbrough
      Dalot scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 6-7 Middlesbrough
      Fry scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 6-6 Middlesbrough
      McTominay strikes, McTominay scores – but it is almost saved by Lumley.
      Penalties – Man Utd 5-6 Middlesbrough
      Watmore scores!
      Penalties – Man Utd 5-5 Middlesbrough
      Fernandes sends Lumley the wrong way.
      We’re into sudden death!
      Penalties – Man Utd 4-5 Middlesbrough
      Bamba is calm and collected as he passes the ball into the bottom left corner.
      Penalties – Man Utd 4-4 Middlesbrough
      Ronaldo steps up but he doesn’t miss this one!
      Penalties – Man Utd 3-4 Middlesbrough
      Tavernier scores the fourth will an excellent strike!
      Penalties – Man Utd 3-3 Middlesbrough
      Fred rifles a brilliant strike into the bottom right corner.
      Penalties – Man Utd 2-3 Middlesbrough
      Howson scores his penalty and sends Henderson the wrong way.
      Penalties – Man Utd 2-2 Middlesbrough
      Maguire strikes into the bottom right corner.
      Penalties – Man Utd 1-1 Middlesbrough
      Peyero is next.
      He aims for the bottom right and the ball sneaks underneath Henderson and into the goal!
      Penalties – Man Utd 1-2 Middlesbrough
      Mata is next.
      He strikes into the top right corner – brilliant penalty!
      Penalties – Man Utd 0-1 Middlesbrough
      Middlesbrough take the first penalty…
      McNair steps up and slots the ball into the bottom right corner.
      Load more entries… More

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      Man Utd verdict: Pogba offers something no-one else can but Rashford, Ronaldo & Fernandes must rediscover cutting edge

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      MANCHESTER UNITED supporters may have been denied a half-time pint but the return of Paul Pogba was more than enough to whet the whistle.That was despite a night of missed chances leading to Middlesbrough dumping them out of the FA Cup on penalties.
      Paul Pogba returned to action for Manchester United against Middlesbrough in the FA CupCredit: Reuters
      Cristiano Ronaldo and United’s forwards must improve their finishing to get in the top fourCredit: AFP
      Pogba shone on his big return to action – but his blunt team-mates had no bite as a host of missed chances proved costly.
      The midfielder had not played since the 2-2 Champions League draw away to Atalanta on November 2.
      He then picked up a thigh injury the following week while training with the French squad.
      Pogba was back in the starting XI for the first time since then for the defeat to Boro and looked to be instantly back on form.
      United’s record £89million transfer signing still looks set to walk away for nothing this summer when his contract expires.
      But boss Ralf Rangnick and the Stretford End will not give one jot if he keeps producing displays like this to help them soften that financial blow by qualifying for the Champions League – if the forwards rediscover their shooting boots!
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      After such a lengthy absence, it took him no time at all to get his side going with one and two-touch football.
      Pogba’s trickery led to an early penalty, amazingly missed by Cristiano Ronaldo, but it was his defensive abilities that equally stood out.
      He stopped Boro speedster Isiah jones’ early surge forward and then won the ball back to start the move that led to Jadon Sancho’s opener.
      Having a strike from distance himself, he then showed he is also willing to do the dirty stuff by taking a booking for the team when Marcus Tavernier was breaking clear.
      That was just in the first half – which ended with the Old Trafford PA announcing no food or drink was available in the concourse kiosks due to a technical fault.
      United fans laughed it off, but in typical fashion of late, they were desperate for something from the top shelf before long as Boro equalised.
      Pogba, who came off on 80 minutes, definitely provides something that no-one else can in the United midfield.
      And his return in this form can certainly provide a spark to seal a top four finish.
      But it’s the men ahead of him on the field that need to rediscover their shooting boots and fast.
      Marcus Rashford, who did have one ruled out for an obvious offside, could have continued to play until next Friday and still not got off the mark.
      Middlesbrough progressed in the FA Cup on penalties after awful finishing from UnitedCredit: PA
      LIkewise Bruno Fernandes, who fluffed a superb chance to win it when hitting the post.
      That is now three goals, two coming in the draw with Aston Villa, in 19 games for last season’s top scorer.
      And then there is Ronaldo, the sulky and frustrated figure who also could not hit a barn door against the Boro on the day before his 37th birthday.
      The Portuguese legend is still undoubtedly one of the greatest on the planet, but that’s four matches in a row for him without finding the net.
      Hardly worrying – but when you set your standards as high as he has both fans, team-mates and himself expect more.
      And they will all have to be a lot more cut-throat when they had to battling Burnley next week.
      ⚽ Read our Manchester United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford More

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      Man Utd 1 Middlesbrough 1 (7-8 pens): Red Devils dumped OUT of FA Cup after VAR controversy and Ronaldo missed spot-kick

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      ANTHONY ELANGA was the penalty villain as Championship Middlesbrough dumped Manchester United of the FA Cup fourth round in dramatic fashion. The teenager skied the 16th spot-kick of the shootout following the incident-packed 1-1 draw after extra time.
      Anthony Elanga blazed the crucial penalty high over the crossbar as United crashed outCredit: Reuters
      Cristiano Ronaldo consoled the teenager, 19, after the heartbreaking missCredit: AFP
      Manchester United’s long wait for a trophy looks set to continueCredit: Getty
      It was a thumping Cup tie from the off between two strong sides.
      A Manchester United finding it’s feet again under Ralf Rangnick.
      A Middlesbrough side revived under Chris Wilder who had won eight of his 12 games since taking charge in November.
      But if you thought Boro were going to sacrifice this with bigger fish to fry in terms of their renewed promotion push forget it.
      Wilder hated his eight months out of the game after an emotional departure from his own Sheffield United.
      It was for nights like this that he returned.
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      There is renewed heart and optimism in the Boro hoards and their team did them proud.
      The 9,443 visitors tickets for this game sold out in an hour and they saw their side go at it full throttle.
      Paul Pogba got a bruising welcome back having not played since November 2 when captain Johnny Howson clattered him early on.
      Nobody was blinking either when Matt Crooks and Scott McTominay contested a free ball.
      Sir Alex Ferguson always said on occasions like this, however, that if you can match your opponent for commitment the greater would show.
      So it was as United dominated at least in the first half but they missed chance after chance.
      They could have been ahead after just two minutes when goalkeeper Joe Lumley spilled a high ball on the edge of his box.
      Ronaldo picked it up, he is always there for the bits and pieces, and passed it short to Sancho.

      His chip looked perfect over the back-peddling Boro goalkeeper but struck the bar and Bruno Fernandes spooned the rebound over.
      Ronaldo came close to scoring one of his spectacular specials when he attempted an overhead kick but Lumley was well positioned and this time held it.
      Fernandes was running the show in the first half and even had a verbal set too with Ronaldo over where who should be when a through ball was wasted.
      He might ask him if he can take back the penalty-taking duties as well after a 19th-minute miss.
      A smart turn by Pogba forced Anfernee Dijksteel into a tap tackle with his arm which saw Anthony Taylor point to the spot.
      Ronaldo stepped up, hit a ball that was aimed for the bottom left-hand corner but it curled away in its last couple of yards.
      The home side would not have to wait for the net to be found.
      Pogba’s good interception allowed Fernandes to feed Sancho.
      He still had work to do with Diksteel trying to block the angle to goal.
      But Sancho has magic in those feet and slipped to one side before firing a shot that found the far bottom corner with the help of a slight deflection off the Boro player.
      Up and running, United went for more.
      Cristiano Ronaldo missed the target completely with his penalty at 0-0Credit: AFP
      Jadon Sancho opened the scoring with his deflected strikeCredit: AP
      Sancho was jumped for joy after grabbing just his third United goalCredit: Getty
      Ronaldo was desperate to make up for his earlier miss and with a quick burst of pace got away and shot across goal.
      Marcus Rashford found the net but was ruled out for offside.
      Fernandes fed Ronaldo who hit it straight at the goalkeeper.
      Shame behind the scenes the United catering staff could not feed the fans as they announced just before the break that due to a technical fault no food or drink could be sold at the break.
      This prompted chants of ‘We want Glazers out’.
      That sudden change of mood did not improve when United went on to miss more chances in the second half and Boro equalised.
      Rashford had refound his scoring boots with goals after coming on from the bench in each of United’s previous two games.
      He lost them last night spurning chances one of which was a golden chance early in the second half.
      Shaw was buzzing and laid a ball down the left flank to Sancho who brilliantly held off his man before curling a low cross into the box for Rashford but he fired over from eight yards.
      With one goal still the difference Boro had a chance and they came close to taking one just short of the hour.
      Both managers laid wreaths to remember the Busby Babes who died in the Munich Air DisasterCredit: Getty
      Ronaldo tried his luck with an overhead kick but his effort was savedCredit: Getty
      Paul Pogba returned to action after his injury lay off but did pick up a yellow cardCredit: Getty
      Jones broke down the right and cut the ball back to Crooks whose shot to the near top corner was turned over by Dean Henderson’s outstretched palm.  
      There was another palm involved, this time when they did get the equaliser.
      Watmore had just come on when he was found in the area by a cross from Jones.
      He tried to control it with his instep but the ball flipped up off his foot and hit his hand before he chipped it across goal for Crooks to scoop home.
      The Boro players celebrated as did their fans but surely VAR would rule this out.
      There was no intent and he was not the scorer but the handball led to the goal. Still it stood.
      Watmore and Crooks, two former United trainees celebrating at Old Trafford.
      The visitors were flying and when Watmore set up Sparar at the near post Henderson had to be sharp to deny him.
      Then United wasted a great chance to decide the encounter in the 72nd minute.
      Goalkeeper Lumley rolled out a pass to Howson but Fernandes nicked it off him, had an open goal to aim at and….hit the post.
      In injury time academy graduate Elanga could have hit the headlines for the right reasons, but instead hit the ‘keeper with a free header.
      So extra time it was.
      But neither side could find the all-important breakthrough – Aaron Connolly’s flick was saved by Henderson while McTominay had a header tipped over before the lottery of the shootout.
      The first 15 all found the back of the net, getting better and better as the pressure mounted.
      But after Lee Peltier found the top of the net to put Boro 8-7 ahead, Elanga blazed his effort high into the Stretford End and his side tumbling out.
      More to follow…
      Duncan Watmore was not penalised despite a blatant handballCredit: Getty
      Manchester United complained to referee Anthony Taylor but their moans fell on deaf earsCredit: Getty
      Matt Crooks carried on and slid in at the back post with the goal emptyCredit: AP
      Crooks celebrated the goal in front of the 9,443 away fans at Old TraffordCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd outraged after Middlesbrough equalise despite clear Duncan Watmore handball.. even AFTER VAR check

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED were left fuming after Middlebrough equalised at Old Trafford – despite a blatant but crucially accidental handball. The ball clearly bounced up off sub Duncan Watmore’s hand as he controlled it in the penalty box.
      Duncan Watmore was not penalised despite a blatant handballCredit: Getty
      Manchester United complained to referee Anthony Taylor but their moans fell on deaf earsCredit: Getty

      Anthony Taylor did not blow his whistle, though.
      And knowing if he scored with his next touch the goal would be ruled out, the Middlesbrough striker lifted the ball over Dean Henderson but off target.
      Matt Crooks, a team-mate of Watmore’s in the United academy, carried on and arrived at the back post to slam in to make it 1-1 in their FA Cup fourth-round clash.
      However, United players, staff and fans could not believe the goal was allowed to stand – especially after a VAR review.
      Even Boro’s bench look bemused it was not ruled out.
      But like Taylor on the field, VAR Stuart Attwell adjudged the handball to be accidental – because the ball came off the player’s body onto his arm.
      And as Watmore didn’t score, the Championship side levelled, to the delight of the 9,443 travelling fans.
      @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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      The change in the wording of the laws of the game last summer meant it could not be overruled.
      The update, explained on the Premier League website, says: “If an attacking player’s accidental handball immediately precedes another player scoring, the goal will now be awarded, when last season it was likely to have been ruled out.
      “However, a player will still be penalised if he commits an accidental handball immediately before scoring himself.”
      Apoplectic Cristiano Ronaldo led the angry protests with his United team-mates as they surrounded ref Taylor.
      But their complaints came to nothing and the goal was given.
      United legend Rio Ferdinand and rested goalkeeper David De Gea were having none of it.
      Ferdinand tweeted: “What’s the point of VAR…” followed by a poo emoji.
      De Gea shared the post and simply added a shocked emoji.

      And Alex Bruce was having none of it.
      The former United youth-team defender and Hull City stalwart fumed on BBC Radio: “You can clearly see Duncan Watmore, the ball has popped up and hit his hand as he sets it up.
      “It hits his hand, oh my gosh he has given the goal. I don’t believe it.
      “You can clearly see as the ball comes into the box!”
      Lee Dixon added on ITV: “Watmore’s touch wasn’t the best and he controls it with his hand.
      “It has to be given as handball. If that was a defender it would be a penalty.”
      Gary Lineker added on Twitter: “The right decision given the absurdity of the law. Clearly accidental but If he’d scored himself it would have been disallowed.
      “The handball law used to be fine. They’ve made it ridiculous.”
      The decision proved crucial as Middlesbrough held on for penalties.
      Anthony Elanga missed after 15 successful spot-kicks as the Red Devils crashed out.
      Watmore lifted the ball over Dean Henderson as Harry Maguire appealed for handballCredit: Getty
      Matt Crooks carried on and slid in at the back post with the goal emptyCredit: AP
      Crooks celebrated the goal in front of the 9,443 away fans at Old TraffordCredit: Getty More

    • 263 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Watch Man Utd star Cristiano Ronaldo miss awful penalty after firing wide from 12 yards in FA Cup clash vs Middlesbrough

      by

      HE’S usually faultless from 12 yards – but even the great Cristiano Ronaldo is guilty of the occasional error.After Paul Pogba was felled inside the area during the FA Cup clash against Middlesbrough Ronaldo stepped up from the spot, only to MISS the target completely.

      Cristiano Ronaldo failed from 12 yards with a shocker of a penaltyCredit: AFP
      Ronaldo could barely believe it as he sent the ball flying wide of the markCredit: Getty
      Ronaldo looked to the turf in the hope of finding an excuse for his shockerCredit: Getty
      And it proved to be costly as Man Utd crashed OUT of the FA Cup – on the lottery of penalties.
      Goalkeeper Joe Lumley wasn’t even forced into making a save as CR7 dragged his effort wide of the mark.
      After sending his effort the wrong side of the post Ronaldo turned and looked to the penalty spot in disgust, perhaps hoping for something to spare his blushes.
      But he could have nothing to blame but himself, with the carpet-like Old Trafford turf remaining pristine, and the score staying 0-0.
      Despite having the reputation of being ice-cold from the spot, Ronaldo’s miss was actually the fourth time in his career he had failed to score a penalty for United.
      He previously failed to net from 12 yards against Wigan, West Ham and Barcelona, in 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.
      He also famously missed a spot-kick in the 2008 Champions League final against Chelsea, although United went on to win that shootout.
      @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in FA Cup.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
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      The likes of Pogba, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford are all known for their prowess from their spot, but unsurprisingly it was Ronaldo who stepped up.
      And with the entire of Old Trafford expecting the net to bulge, Ronaldo was in as much shock as everyone else as his effort smashed into the advertising hoardings, not the back of the net.
      Ronaldo did score a thunderous effort in the shootout, but to no avail as Boro prevailed 8-7 after Anthony Elanga missed his sudden-death effort.

      ⚽ Read our Manchester United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford More

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      in Soccer

      Will FA Cup games have replays or are extra-time and penalties used if it’s a draw in fourth round?

      by

      THE FA Cup fourth round has finally arrived, starting with Manchester United’s hosting of Middlesbrough on Friday night.But what happens if matches are drawn, will there be a replay to decides who gets to the next round?

      Some rounds of the FA Cup continue to use replays to decide tiesCredit: PA:Press Association
      The FA Cup replay rules have changed extensively in recent years and 2021-22 is no different, especially due to the Coronavirus pandemic.Will FA Cup games go to replays or extra-time and penalties?
      The FA Cup will not go to replays this season to help fixture congestion.
      Replays were first scrapped from the quarter-finals onward in 2016.
      And then last season they were scrapped completely due to Covid-19.
      Because of the fixture build-up caused by the pandemic this term, replays from the third round onwards have been ditched again.
      Games which end in a draw will now be settled by 30 minutes of extra-time and a penalty shootout if necessary.
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      Which FA Cup rounds have replays and which go to extra time?

      Third round – Extra time and penalties (Since 2020/21)
      Fourth round – Extra time and penalties  (Since 2020/21)
      Fifth round – Extra time and penalties (Since 2018/19)
      Quarter-final – Extra time and penalties (Since 2016/17)
      Semi-final – Extra time and penalties (Since 1999/00)
      Final – Extra time and penalties (Since 1993/94) More

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      Long-serving Cambridge United groundsman has been going for 43 YEARS and beat Beast from East, earned gong from Queen

      by

      IAN DARLER was man of the match the last time Cambridge United hosted FA Cup opponents Luton.But that’s far from the biggest accolade that the Abbey Stadium groundsman has received in his 43 seasons at the club.
      Cambridge United groundsman Ian Darler with his British Empire MedalCredit: Jamie McPhilimey
      In 2020, Darler was awarded the British Empire Medal for his long service to the U’s and for his charity work. 
      Beating the weather four years ago so that Cambridge’s League Two clash with Luton could go ahead was just another day at the office.
      Darler said: “It was the Beast from the East. 
      “I was here just before 4am. We put one floodlight on and using a rubber snow plough I’d made myself over the years, we cleared 200 tonnes of snow off the pitch before 7am.
      “But that was just the start of it because we had to get the stands clear and all the areas around, put salt down.
      “To hear the announcement, ‘Man of the match: Cambridge United groundsman Ian Darler and his staff’, was amazing.”
      But being told he had been honoured by the Queen was too much for Darler.
      He said: “When I got the phone call, I thought it was a wind-up. 
      “I did tell the chap, ‘Who the hell do you think you’re kidding?’ Because you just don’t expect it.”
      Ian Darler was just 19 when he took charge of the Abbey Stadium turf in 1979
      No-one at the club or in the wider community would argue that Darler didn’t deserve the gong.
      He was the youngest groundsman in the Football League when he took over at the Abbey Stadium in 1979 at the age of 19.
      Darler received his first transfer offer at his very first home game because the visiting Leicester board were so impressed with his pitch.
      And in 1987, Coventry joint boss John Sillett pronounced the Abbey turf better than the Wembley surface where his side had won the FA Cup months earlier.
      But Darler turned down a move to top-flight HIghfield Road and a number of others down the years.
      He said: “Cambridge gave me the opportunity and I thought I should remain loyal. 
      “And, forgive the pun, I don’t always believe the grass is greener on the other side.”
      Darler’s pitch has won multiple awards – but not from former Cambridge boss John BeckCredit: Jamie McPhilimey
      The main reason why the grass at the Abbey has (mostly) stayed green is Darler’s devotion.
      The multi-award-winning groundsman estimates that he has blagged materials and equipment worth a million pounds from suppliers during his tenure, as well as putting in about £30,000 of his own money.
      Legendary U’s boss John Beck did effectively force Darler to down tools at one point, telling him the pitch was too good for his team’s style of play.
      But Darler was soon back after complaints about the surface. He has a different take on claims in former Cambridge striker Steve Claridge’s autobiography that he let the grass grow longer in the corners, under orders from Beck, to hold up long balls into the channels.
      Darler said: “The pitch had been destroyed from them training on it and we were left with a diamond shape that was permanently waterlogged.
      “The only way they could play was with an inch of sand on it.
      “The only part of the pitch that HAD any grass was the corners!”
      @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}MOST READ IN FOOTBALL.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      Watch entire Cambridge team copy Man Utd star Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siu’ celebration after stunning Newcastle in FA Cup
      Like all Cambridge fans, Darler enjoyed the club’s amazing win in the last round at Premier League Newcastle when their Geordie striker Joe Ironside grabbed the only goal.
      It reminded him of one of his favourite Abbey Stadium moments. In April 1984, a Newcastle team featuring Kevin Keegan, Peter Beardsley, Terry McDermott arrived needing a point to secure promotion back to the top flight.
      Darler said: “They were practically already celebrating when they got off the bus.
      “For us to win 1-0 at home – Kevin Smith took the penalty, who was a Geordie – to deny them that with the team they had then – incredible.”
      Darler has dozens of great stories and put the printable ones in his book “Life’s A Pitch”.
      They include how he became involved in charity work and why his current bid to raise funds for mental health service Shout is so close to his heart.
      Cambridge gave Darler a testimonial in 2004 and he donated some of the cash to East Anglian Children’s Hospices.
      That led to him establishing Cambridge Charity Fundraisers and generating tens of thousands of pounds for local causes through sportsmen’s dinners and fishing events.
      But in 2013, Darler had a serious accident at work that resulted in multiple surgeries and years of mental health problems. After contemplating suicide, he was diagnosed with depression and eventually with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
      Darler returned to work fully only in 2019 but his experiences have helped change attitudes within the club and beyond.
      He said: “We are now without doubt one of the best clubs in the country for talking about and dealing with mental health.”
      Net gains – Darler has completed a million-step challenge in aid of Shout 85258Credit: Jamie McPhilimey
      This season Cambridge are supporting the Shout 85258 text message service by displaying it on their training kit.
      But Darler has gone further, completing a million-step challenge and raising £12,000 for the service.
      Darler, who lost a friend to suicide a year ago, said: “The money isn’t even the key thing. 
      “I wanted to get people talking and what has happened over the last three months has been life-changing. 
      “If I could prevent one other person going through what I went through and what my friend went through, that’s all I’m looking for.”
      But at 62 Darler is not looking for a new job, despite working days of 11 hours or more as he combines his head groundsman role with being matchday safety officer and stadium manager.
      He said: “I’ve just renegotiated my contract and  it could keep me here until I’m 70.
      “I love the job. I love most of the people in and around the game. 
      “I live it and breathe it. My wife says I spend more time on the pitch than I do with her. 
      “But that’s the job.” More

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      Man Utd REMOVE Mason Greenwood from match-day programme for FA Cup clash with Middlesbrough amid rape probe

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      MASON GREENWOOD has been removed from Manchester United’s matchday programme.The Red Devils were knocked out of the FA Cup on penalties at the hands of Middlesbrough in their first match since the 20-year-old forward’s arrests on suspicion of rape, GBH, sexual assault and threats to kill on Friday night.
      Mason Greenwood’s name has been removed from the Manchester United squad listCredit: PA
      The matchday squad had no mention of No11 GreenwoodCredit: PA
      But the squad list for the FA Cup clash against Boro omitted Greenwood’s name.
      Manchester United suspended the player indefinitely following his arrest and released an updated statement after his re-arrest earlier this week.
      A spokesman for the club said: “Manchester United reiterates its strong condemnation of violence of any kind.
      “As previously communicated, Mason Greenwood will not train with, or play for, the club until further notice.”
      He has since been bailed after being arrested for the string of alleged offences.
      A Greater Manchester Police spokesman confirmed the force were granted more time to quiz the £75,000-a-week footballer, who joined United aged six and has scored 35 goals in 129 appearances.
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      Greenwood was axed from video game FIFA 22 on Tuesday following claims made against him last weekend.
      His employers also removed any merchandise with his name on from their website.
      And fans wanting to exchange shirts bearing his name can now do so for free.
      Meanwhile sportswear giants Nike have suspended their sponsorship of the one-cap England striker.
      As revealed by SunSport, Greenwood will not be considered for Three Lions selection until any potential legal proceedings against him are completed.
      He appears to have had security at his Bowdon mansion home toughened up since being released on bail.
      Two security guards were seen standing watch outside the home and an expert was also pictured arriving to install a £350 home security system.
      United manager Ralf Rangnick touched on his striker’s arrest yesterday at a press conference ahead of tonight’s Boro showdown in the fourth round.
      He suggested players have been discussing the incident when asked if it had been “distracting”.
      The German added: “We had a good normal week of training with five training sessions including today’s training, obviously it was a topic within the team but they’re human beings and Mason was part of the group before we had our break.
      “It was a good week of training, we could train under normal circumstances and we are looking forward to the game tomorrow.”
      ⚽ Read our Manchester United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford More