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Wayne Rooney scored an injury-time penalty winner as Manchester United progressed with an unconvincing 1-0 victory over League One Sheffield United at a wet Old Trafford.
In a game of few chances, it took the late introduction of Memphis Depay to finally create an opening, the Dutchman winning a penalty after being fouled by Dean Hammond.
Rooney finished emphatically from the spot to secure the win for relieved manager Louis van Gaal.
It was hardly convincing from the home side, however, who managed just two shots on target against a team currently sitting ninth in League One.
United had 71 per cent possession but again did little with it, with their build-up play slow, ponderous and without risk.
It took the introduction of Memphis Depay on the hour mark to wake the home side from their slumber, his low shot that went just wide their best chance.
The game looked to be heading for a replay when Memphis drove into the box and was inexplicably fouled by Dean Hammond.
There were shouts that the Dutchman had dived, but although he made the most of the tackle, throwing himself into the air, it was a definite penalty.
Wayne Rooney stepped up and drove the ball home in the 92nd minute to spare Van Gaal's blushes.
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