Reds stung by Bees as they almost get away with robbery

ERIK ten Hag is not usually prone to exuberant celebrations but clenched both fists and applauded. It was for Andre Onana's double save. He had more to celebrate in added time.

- SAMUEL LUCKHURST

A fortnight on from one of the latest United winners, they left it late again. Only Brentford left it later with their equaliser.

On the weekend of daylight saving time, the Reds would have got away with daylight robbery had they won. Mason Mount's 96th-minute goal, seemingly a winner, was extinguished by Kristoffer Ajer's equaliser in the 99th minute.

United coach Steve McClaren emerged into the technical area, pointing at his temples once the Reds had celebrated Mount's first goal for the club. They A United failed to stay focused would have been a trayesty. Mount's clinical cameo did not paper over the cracks as Scott McTominay's heroics against Brentford did.

Or Bruno Fernandes's decider at Fulham. Or Kobbie Mainoo's wizardry at Wolves.

The question is does this Reds squad have it in them to capitalise on any openings? The answer is no. This was additional evidence to file with the first seven months of the season.

As extraordinary as this finale was, the  bigger picture is United were battered by a team that has won two of their past 18 games. "How are we not winning?" wondered a Brentford fan at the half-time shrill. Such entitlement has been rare at the Community Stadium. The supporter may have muttered those words again at full-time during Brentford's lap of honour.

Brentford peppered the Reds goal with 31 attempts and hit the woodwork thrice.

Up the other end, Rasmus Hojlund resembled the profligate striker before his Boxing Day breakthrough against Villa with United's only opening. Mount became United's 17th different scorer this season.