Louis van Gaal blamed his players for failing to ‘reward’ themselves as Chelsea scored an extra time equaliser to draw the fixture against Manchester United. The Dutchman was left frustrated at the end of the match as he claimed that his players lacked the composure needed to earn three points at Stamford Bridge.
While Jesse Lingard gave United the lead after scoring an exquisite goal in the second half, Chelsea managed to crawl their way back into the game as their efforts were finally rewarded in the extra time.
We were the better team
As reported by the Daily Express, Van Gaal claimed that Manchester United were the better side despite their inability to earn three points against Chelsea.
“Deep frustration because we were the better team. Again. And we didn’t win. We had the better chances but we didn’t win.
The Dutchman blamed his players for lacking composure in the defence as he rued their inability to ‘reward’ themselves against a ‘team like Chelsea’.
“This is also because Chelsea is pushing with long balls and more aggression but nevertheless you have to keep the ball and be composed when you defend; you are not kicking the ball way without any meaning.
“Also we could have scored again after the first goal but you don’t reward yourselves. When you play such a game against a team like Chelsea, you have to reward yourself.”
Manchester United fighting for a Champions League spot
The draw leaves Manchester United in the 5th spot, 6 points below Manchester City who are currently languishing in the 4th spot following their 3-1 loss against Leicester City. While Louis van Gaal has vociferously backed himself to succeed at the club, reports continue to link Jose Mourinho with the top job at Manchester United.
While the Red Devils are still in contention for a Champions League spot this season, they are currently 12 points behind league leaders Leicester City (53). This means that Chelsea (30) have a better chance of catching up with Manchester United by the end of the season than United have of winning the league.
