Why the Bruno Fernandes goal stood even with Marcus Rashford clearly offside

Manchester United triumphed over a bitterly disappointed Manchester City in today's controversial Manchester derby which saw Bruno Fernandes score despite Marcus Rashford being offside.

The Fernandes goal was United's first in the game and is the main talking point from the match after it had to be awarded by VAR after it was initially ruled out for offside.

Michael Oliver, who was on VAR, quickly checked the goal and reversed his original decision of offside after Rashford did not interfere with play enough for the goal to be disallowed.

The visitors were furious with the decision as players surrounded referee Stuart Attwell and Man City manager Pep Guardiola screamed frantically from the touchline as they believed it was the wrong decision.

After the match the Premier League explained to TV broadcasters as to why the goal stood.

"The flag went up, ref and linesman had a conversation, deemed no touch on the ball from Rashford and no impact on the defender being able to play the ball. VAR could not find evidence of clear and obvious error so supports the goal."

Rashford celebrates his winner. Image: Alamy

Former referee Peter Walton spoke more about the goal on BT Sport.

"You’re quite right in saying that Rashford has moved for the ball, hasn’t interfered with the ball, hasn’t played the ball himself, the flag goes up because of the offside position but when VAR look at this and when the assistant discusses this with Stuart Atwell, I think this is a goal."

Just three minutes after the goal whilst City were still recovering United scored their second through Rashford who claimed a crucial three points for his side who have fund their form in recent weeks.

United now have 38 points from 18 matches, one less than Pep Guardiola's side who will have to watch their back as the Red Devils have slowly caught them them up due to City's poor form.