Why Man Utd goal against Ipswich still stood after Harry Maguire handball

The own goal stood despite Harry Maguire handling in the immediate build-up (Picture: Sky Sports)

There was a moment of controversy and confusion in Manchester United ’s clash with Ipswich after the hosts were awarded a second goal – despite Harry Maguire clearly handling the ball in the build-up.

After suffering a dismal 2-0 defeat to Hull last time out, there was more frustration for the Red Devils as Leif Davis struck on the half-hour mark to silence Old Trafford .

Fernandes dragged United back with a sublime equaliser shortly before the break, though, setting the stage for an intriguing second half between Michael Carrick ’s men and the Premier League new boys.

The hugely contentious incident arrived in the 56th minute as Maguire seemingly drilled a low shot through a crowd of bodies to cue rapturous scenes at the Theatre of Dreams.

However, replays showed Maguire handle the ball before taking his strike, which took a hefty deflection off Jacob Greaves to end up in the corner of Kjell Scherpen’s goal.

After a lengthy VAR check, Jarred Gillett confirmed to referee Craig Pawson that the goal should stand – a decision which has left Brighton supporters enraged across social media.

‘It’s an own goal and the accidental handball is not punishable, so we recommend you award the goal,’ Gillett stated.

There were wild celebrations as the own goal was awarded (Picture: Getty)

#MUNIPS – 56’ The referee’s call of goal for Manchester United was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed that Maguire was not the immediate goalscorer after an accidental handball. VAR: “It's an own goal and the accidental handball is not punishable, so we recommend you… — Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) August 30, 2026