(Manchester United News)
Radamel Falcao had an Under-21 run-out for Manchester United but fellow first-teamer Rafael came up with the equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Tottenham in a top-of-the-table clash at Old Trafford.
Warren Joyce had a strong side at his disposal and the point was sufficient to keep the Reds at the summit but Spurs and Liverpool have a game in hand in a division that is incredibly tight.
An early Kyle Walker-Peters run led to a free-kick that was sent over the bar by Grant Ward while the hosts' first attempt was a left-footer wide from Sean Goss after Falcao was crowded out.
Falcao dived to meet a Joe Rothwell cross but could not reach it and blocked a James Wilson shot from an offside position following a wonderful sweeping pass by Donald Love. With Andreas Pereira and Reece James also having efforts, it was something of a surprise when Spurs took the lead.
Rothwell's sloppy pass gifted possession to Kenny McEvoy and he took full advantage, advancing into the box to clip past Victor Valdes. Shaquille Coulthirst's drive deflected inches wide off Tom Thorpe and, instead of 2-0 to the North Londoners, it was all square again on 32 minutes.
Spurs overplayed at the back after being under some pressure and Rafael sent an inch-perfect chip over Luke McGee with his left foot from long range. A huge roar from the crowd greeted the announcement of the scorer, emphasising his popularity, but there was no addition to the scoreline before half-time despite Pereira wrapping his foot around the ball to fire off target.
Another Pereira attempt was safely handled by McGee after the break and Cameron Carter-Vickers was close to regaining the lead for Ugo Ehiogu's men when heading McEvoy's cross against the bar. Will Miller worked Valdes after a misplaced touch by Rothwell as Spurs enjoyed their best spell.
