Rooney nets pair as Man U wins
Refereeing controversy erupts again after red card
Manchester United rode its luck Saturday as England captain Wayne Rooney scored twice in a 2-0 win against struggling 10-man Sunderland, but his success was overshadowed by another refereeing controversy in the Premier League.
One week after the fury at Chelsea’s home clash with Burnley, referee Roger East was at the centre of an alleged case of mistaken identity at Old Trafford.
Rooney scored from a penalty after 66 minutes when Radamel Falcao was fouled by John O’Shea and referee East sent off Wes Brown instead of O’Shea, leaving the visitors to struggle on with 10 men. Ironically, both defenders are former United players.
O’Shea, who clearly pulled Falcao back as he was about to shoot, pleaded with East to send him off instead, but Brown was shown the red card.
East explained later, in a statement issued by the referees’ body, he believed he saw both players make contact with Falcao, but added none of the officials offered any guidance.
Rooney scored his second six minutes from time and lifted United back to third in the Premier League behind leader Chelsea and second-place defending champion Manchester City, both of whom did not play Saturday.
Saturday’s win confirmed United’s challenge for a return to the Champions League on a day when Southampton, the only other top team in action, was beaten 1-0 by improving West Bromwich Albion.
West Ham United’s fading bid for a place in Europe took a hit in a 3-1 loss at home to Crystal Palace while Swansea won 1-0 at Burnley, Newcastle beat struggling Aston Villa 1-0 and Stoke overcame Hull, also by one goal.
West Brom manager Tony Pulis said striker Saido Berahino, who netted his 17th goal of the season after only 71 seconds, had scored “a goal that top, top class players score and Berahino could be a top, top class player. Since I came to the club, there has been no doubt about his ability. He just needs direction.”
His joy at beating Southampton for the first time as a manager in four attempts was in contrast to Ronald Koeman’s dismay after his team’s toothless display.