Why VAR didn't overturn Scott McTominay penalty in Manchester United win vs Sheffield United

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has explained why the penalty Scott McTominay conceded against Sheffield United was not overturned by VAR.

Goals from McTominay and Diogo Dalot settled the scores for United at Bramall Lane on Saturday night. However, they needed a late winner to snatch three points after Oli McBurnie had equalised.

His strike came from 12 yards after McTominay had handled in the penalty area. Michael Oliver pointed to the spot as the on-field referee on Saturday night and there was to be no U-turn from VAR.

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Harry Maguire later escaped punishment for a strong tackle on Manchester City loanee James McAtee inside the area. Oliver has been told he got both of the decisions correct.

Speaking about the McTominay handball, former Premier League referee Gallagher told Sky Sports show Ref Watch: "What's good about this is the referee gave it on the field. He's very positive.

"VAR looked at it and backed the referee. Again, his arm is extended. I went through the checklist and you might not like it, but it's a penalty."

On the Maguire challenge, Gallagher added: "He runs a risk here, but the referee eventually makes the decision of no penalty because he has a clear view. He eliminated the VAR because he has not made a clear and obvious error because the referee thought it was quite clearly not.

"Any challenge like that, you've got to get the ball. But the referee has the best view. Because he eliminated the VAR and 'cut the grass' as we call it, the VAR has nowhere to go."