Roy Keane was stunned by Manchester United full-back Tyrell Malacia’s defensive howler against Reading in the FA Cup on Saturday, and he said that the Dutch defender’s actions “drove him mad.”
The Championship side travelled to Old Trafford to play against United in the fourth round of the FA Cup. The Red Devils dominated the first half, although Reading’s Junior Hoilett had the finest opportunity of the half owing to Malacia’s error.
The United left-back took a long time to control the ball in his own penalty area, bringing it down on his chest before attempting to clear, but Hoilett pounced and pushed a shot at David de Gea from close range.
The Royals player didn’t make good contact, and the Spaniard easily saved it, but Keane was taken aback by the defensive play by Malacia.
As reported by the Mirror, the former United captain said:
“What are these defenders thinking? Honestly, it drives me mad. As if he’s surprised somebody’s next to him! Switch on! Be aware of what’s next to you on the football pitch. It drives me crazy.”
There was some tension at Old Trafford throughout the first half because there was no goal, but that subsided as they consolidated their control in the second half.
By the time the hour mark had come, the Red Devils were up 2-0 thanks to a brace from Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, who produced two very different but equally outstanding finishes. Former Liverpool striker Andy Caroll was given a red card before Fred made it 3-0 and ended the game.
Reading’s Amadou Salif Mbengue added a consolation goal from a corner, but that was all it got for Paul Ince’s team.
