Fans left confused by the same thing while watching Bournemouth vs Man Utd as 'ridiculous' claim made

Manchester United fans have been left confused by one aspect of their ongoing away clash against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

Dominic Solanke gave Bournemouth the lead on 16 minutes, and the hosts were in the ascendency for much of the half in terms of chances created.

United did then equalise through Bruno Fernandes' fierce half-volley from close range, before Justin Kluivert put the Cherries back ahead on 36 minutes.

Bournemouth had 12 shots on goal during the first half, with five of those landing on target, as opposed to United's five shots and one on target.

Justin Kluivert restores Bournemouth's lead! 🍒 pic.twitter.com/S6ycQEGhgv

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 13, 2024

While watching the game, fans quickly noticed how the ball was regularly sticking in the pitch in Bournemouth's half due to water, while moving quicker at the other end of the pitch.

It was mentioned by a number of fans on Twitter, with one commenting: "United's attacking half is almost unplayable because it's basically a swimming pool."

Another wrote: "I don't know whether to be outraged or impressed."

A third commented: "This is ridiculous - the half of the pitch we're attacking is soaking wet, you can see water flying up."

Opposition fans, though, did argue that the issue will likely affect Bournemouth in the second half - and their defenders have also had to defend in the same area.

While there are laws surrounding pitch conditions in the FA's Laws of the Game - and pitches are checked by an official before kick-off - there appears to be no mention of any limits in regards to watering the pitch before kick-off.

There is a specific law applicable to half-time, though, which states: "The Home Club may water the Pitch at half time provided it gives reasonable notice to the referee and the other Club that it intends to do so, and that any such watering is carried out evenly over the entire length and width of the Pitch."