In a game marred by controversy, Manchester United took 3 points from Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Referee, Mark Clattenberg found himself at the centre of Sunday’s action after the sending off of both Branislav Ivanovic and Fernando Torres in the latter stages of the match. The red cards set the scene for United substitute Javier Hernandez to secure a 3-2 win for Alex Ferguson’s side.
Chelsea had few complaints about Branislav Ivanovic’s red card for fouling Ashley Young as he raced through, but the dismissal of Fernando Torres for diving was bitterly disputed by the home side – and they looked to have a case.
The Spaniard appeared to be caught by Reds defender Jonny Evans but Clattenburg ruled he had dived and produced a second yellow card, to the obvious astonishment of Torres and the undisguised fury of Chelsea.
After the game had finished, Chelsea quickly made an official complaint to the FA regarding the alleged use of ‘inappropriate language’ towards two of Chelsea’s players.
Today, a police investigation has also been launched into Sunday’s events. According to the BBC, ‘neither Chelsea or the FA made the police complaint.’
‘Peter Herbert, the lawyer behind the potential black players’ breakaway union, earlier revealed he made a written complaint to the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS).’
Unsurprisingly, Clattenberg is set to formally deny any allegations that have been made.
United’s win means the gap at the top of the Premier League is closed to just 1 point. Obviously, the outcome of the game has been overshadowed by events during the match. Hopefully the extent of the situation will be become clear within the near future. Until then, it’ll be hard for Sir Alex’s side to savour the 3 points.