This archive report was first published on 22 December 2019.
Manchester United's recent revival was brought to a halt by a 2-0 defeat against Premier League bottom side Watford on Sunday, with David de Gea's howler being a key moment in the match.
Despite having the majority of possession, United struggled to impose themselves against Watford, who were led by Nigel Pearson in his first home game in charge.
The key moment in the match came in the 50th minute when De Gea somehow allowed a tame, spinning effort from Ismaila Sarr to creep through his hands and in at the near post.
Watford doubled their lead four minutes later when Troy Deeney fired home from the penalty spot after the otherwise impressive Aaron Wan-Bissaka brought down Sarr with a misjudged sliding tackle.
United's defeat brings their recent revival to a shuddering halt, with the team now sitting eighth in the Premier League table with 25 points.
"We were sloppy and gave the ball away numerous times, especially in the first half," United defender Harry Maguire told Sky Sports.
"I felt in the first half the game was there to be won. We should have scored in the first half. We have to be better against these so-called lower opposition sides who have a deep block."
Published on December 22, 2019
