Christie a thorn in United’s side

Derby 2 Manchester United 2

Derby 2 Manchester United 2

A disallowed goal deep into injury-time denied Malcolm Christie a hat-trick and Derby County three invaluable league points at Pride Park today.

Christie (left), the England under-21 striker, gave the home side the lead after just eight minutes, before United hit back with goals from Paul Scholes and Juan Sebastian Veron.

Alex Ferguson's players, who had hit the woodwork three times, appeared to be cruising to victory before Christie pounced at the near post 13 minutes from time to turn home a cross from Luciano Zavagno.

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In the dying seconds, Christie put the ball in the net again after robbing United keeper Fabien Barthez, but referee Steve Dunn decided the Derby man had kicked the ball out of the French international's hands.

The draw leaves United top of the league with 58 points, one more than second-placed Arsenal, though the London club have a game in hand.

Derby stay second from bottom on goal difference behind Blackburn Rovers.