Manchester United fined £20,000 by FA for furious reaction to Liverpool ‘goal’ later ruled out by VAR

The referee, Craig Pawson, initially allowed the goal to stand, which drew outrage from United’s players

Manchester United confront the referee Craig Pawson (Reuters)

Manchester United have been fined £20,000 after their players’ furious reaction to a goal scored by Liverpool which was later ruled out by VAR.

Roberto Firmino scored moments after David de Gea had been challenged in the air by Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, causing the goalkeeper to spill the ball.

The referee, Craig Pawson, initially allowed the goal to stand, which drew outrage from United’s players. De Gea led the vehement protests and was booked, before VAR intervened to deny the goal. Liverpool were a goal in front at the time and went on to win 2-0.

United accepted a Football Association charge of failing to ensure their players “conducted themselves in an orderly fashion”.

Liverpool followed up victory over United with a win at Wolves on Thursday night, extending the lead at the top of the Premier League to 16 points.