Manchester United vs Watford: Red Devils Suffer Blow to Top Four Hopes After Frustrating Draw

• Despite dominating at Old Trafford, United could not find a way past Watford on Saturday, February 26
• Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes had excellent chances to give their team the lead early in the first half
• The 0-0 result leaves United only two points ahead of in-form Arsenal, who have played three games less

Manchester United’s top-four hopes took yet another hit after a frustrating 0-0 draw against relegation-threatened Watford at Old Trafford.

United will only have themselves to blame as they were wasteful when it came to finishing off their chances, especially in the first half.

On the other hand, Roy Hodgson’s Watford will be extremely happy with an away point, as it takes them one step closer to safety.

How it happened

Going into the game, United were overwhelming favourites, and were expected to cruise past Watford, who are embroiled in a brutal battle to avoid relegation.

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Football

As expected, Ralf Rangnick’s side started the game with a lot of intent, dominating possession and creating chances.

Cristiano Ronaldo was the first one who fell guilty of missing a gilt-edged chance as his low effort from a few yards out somehow hit the post, but it was not too alarming as it was very early on in the game.

The 37-year old eventually found the back of the net, but his goal was almost instantly ruled out for offside.

Bruno Fernandes also missed two glorious chances in the first half, first seeing his shot going narrowly wide, then heading over the bar after being picked out beautifully by countryman Cristiano.

He also spurned a brilliant team move as his shot went straight at Ben Foster.

In one of Watford’s rare attacks, Emmanuel Dennis saw his tame effort come off Raphael Varane and harmlessly go David De Gea’s way.

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Football

There were hints that it was going to be one of those frustrating days for Manchester United when Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal-bound effort came off Anthony Elanga in the second half.

Substitute Jadon Sancho curled an effort over as Fernandes saw his shot from outside the box late on go straight to Foster as Watford kept a clean sheet for the first time in 30 games.

Calls for peace

From a humanitarian perspective, there were warm scenes before the match as Ralf Rangnick came up with an idea for players to stand behind a peace banner before kick-off.

The Manchester United manager was also spotted wearing a “No war” badge on his coat.