Louis van Gaal claimed “everything was against us” following Manchester United’s goalless draw against Cambridge in the FA Cup, a result that earned the League Two side a lucrative replay at Old Trafford following a remarkably courageous performance.
United dominated the second half but were undone by their slow start to the fourth-round tie, with Van Gaal ruing his side’s early malaise. The Dutchman blamed the pitch and the referee although he praised Cambridge’s organised display.
“Every aspect of a match is against us,” said Van Gaal, who rested Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata for the tie. “We have to come here, the pitch isn’t so good, that can influence that you can play in another style. The opponents always give a lot more than they normally give and defending is always easier than attacking. Then you have seen the referee – it’s always the same. Everywhere I have coached these games, and I have coached them with other clubs, it’s always the same.
“It was a pity we had to wait until half-time. In the second half I was pleased but we didn’t score. I have to give the credit to this club. Cambridge United played very well, they were very well organised. They fought till the end. We could have scored I think but we are still in the Cup and that’s the most important thing. I have seen big clubs lose against such opponents.”
The Cambridge manager, Richard Money, described the prospect of a replay as “mind-blowing” in terms of the long-term financial boost it could have. Money also confirmed that no Cambridge player asked to swap shirts with an opponent at full-time.
“It’s difficult to put into words really,” he said. “This club has been in the doldrums for so many years and here we are taking Man United back to Old Trafford. It’s going to mean an incredible amount. Mind-blowing. I’m sure the chairman wouldn’t have been too happy if we had scored in the second half. We’re going to Old Trafford. Who cares what happens? Just enjoy it and soak it in. Whatever happens happens.”