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Manchester United did not control their fate among the top four in Sunday's game against Huddersfield Town, a club that had been relegated for some time. Three points on a win were the minimum required to retain the hope of a Champions League qualification, but they also needed Watford's help for Chelsea to lose a few points.
Around 60 minutes, things started to move quickly south. Not only was it clear that Watford was not going to serve United after conceding two goals in quick succession to Chelsea, but it was also clear that United's defense was not up to the task. Huddersfield goaltender Jonas Lössl picked up a cross and sent the ball to Isaac Mbenza. United defender Luke Shaw was doing his best to score Mbenza and was trying to prevent the ball from reaching his man. At best, his attempt was futile and he felt the deflection give Mbenza an opportunity to score one-on-one against the under-performing David De Gea. The goal that followed equalized the match to one.
Mbenza celebrated with a strong blow of the flag of corner in front of the supporters of his club. The celebration was made at the expense of five minutes late as the stadium staff did their best to try to find a replacement flag. Fortunately for Huddersfield, the hype around the goal was blocked and the fans were more enthusiastic than once the flag was replaced.
(It's really ironic that this sport makes sure that players take off their jerseys during the celebration, but causing a delay because people have to replace something that a broken player does not even seem to lead to a Warning).
Huddersfield also continued its momentum, which managed to delay all Manchester United's efforts and keep the score at one goal per game. The point result mathematically prevented Manchester United from placing in the top four in the standings for the fourth time in six reasons, while Chelsea would end up with a 3-0 win over Watford.
The only drawback of this result is the fact that Huddersfield will have to wait at least two seasons before having the chance to play again as a spoiler for United.
