Anthony Taylor has got to be the worst referee in the premier league after what he did today..we’ve seen controversies but today was something else..especially when he made a clear one sided call against Manchester United…” Gary Neville sends strong message to Anthony Taylor after one sided decision today

In a thrilling encounter at the Gtech Community Stadium on May 4, 2025, Brentford edged Manchester United 4-3 in a match that showcased attacking prowess and defensive frailties on both sides. The game, however, was overshadowed by contentious refereeing decisions that have reignited debates about officiating standards in the Premier League.

Match Overview

Manchester United fielded their youngest-ever Premier League starting XI, with an average age just under 23, highlighting the club’s focus on youth development. Despite this, they took an early lead through Mason Mount. Brentford responded emphatically, with Kevin Schade netting twice, and goals from Mikkel Damsgaard and Yoane Wissa putting them ahead. Late goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo brought United back into contention, but Brentford held on for the win .

Statistical Breakdown

Possession: Manchester United edged possession with 53%, while Brentford held 47%.
Shots: Brentford were more prolific, registering 31 shots to United’s 11.
Corners: Brentford earned 14 corners compared to United’s 4.
Fouls: Manchester United committed 14 fouls, while Brentford committed 7 .
Refereeing Controversies

The match was marred by several contentious decisions from referee Anthony Taylor. United supporters and pundits alike were incensed by what they perceived as inconsistent officiating. One particularly controversial moment involved a potential penalty for United that was not awarded, despite apparent contact in the box. Additionally, several fouls by Brentford players went unpunished, while United players received yellow cards for similar infractions.

Gary Neville’s Reaction

Former Manchester United defender and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville did not mince words in his post-match analysis. He stated, “Anthony Taylor has got to be the worst referee in the Premier League after what he did today. We’ve seen controversies, but today was something else, especially when he made a clear one-sided call against Manchester United.” Neville’s comments reflect a growing frustration with the standard of officiating in the league.

Implications for Manchester United

This defeat marked Manchester United’s 16th league loss of the season, equaling a record set in 1990, and ensured a bottom-half finish for the first time in 35 years . The result also highlighted the team’s defensive vulnerabilities and the challenges of integrating young players into high-stakes matches.

Brentford’s European Aspirations

For Brentford, the victory was their third successive Premier League win, boosting their hopes for European qualification. Kevin Schade’s brace and the team’s overall performance demonstrated their attacking capabilities and resilience under pressure .

Conclusion

While the match delivered excitement and showcased emerging talents, the officiating controversies have cast a shadow over the spectacle. Calls for improved refereeing standards and accountability are likely to intensify as the Premier League season progresses.

This detailed match report paints a vivid picture of both Manchester United’s transitional struggles and Brentford’s growing ambitions. Several key takeaways stand out:

**1. Youth Focus vs. Tactical Naivety:**
United’s youngest-ever starting XI shows a clear long-term vision under INEOS and Erik ten Hag (or his successor), but the lack of experience—especially defensively—was exposed. Despite flashes of brilliance from Mount, Garnacho, and Amad, conceding 31 shots and 4 goals is a damning statistic.

**2. Refereeing Under Fire:**
Anthony Taylor’s performance has added fuel to the fire surrounding officiating standards in the Premier League. Gary Neville’s harsh criticism is reflective of widespread discontent, and calls for greater VAR transparency and referee accountability are only likely to grow louder.

**3. Mount’s Redemption Arc:**
Mason Mount’s early goal and commanding midfield display signal a potential turning point. His influence in this chaotic match hints at a more settled, impactful role if given a consistent run.

**4. Implications for United’s Future:**
Equalling their 1990 league loss record and finishing in the bottom half underscore the need for structural rebuilds—especially in defense and leadership. It also raises questions about Erik ten Hag’s future and INEOS’s next moves.

**5. Brentford’s Rise:**
Thomas Frank’s side, led by Kevin Schade and Wissa, are evolving into serious European contenders. Their physicality, relentless pressing, and home form make them a force outside the traditional top six.

Would you like a tactical breakdown of how United’s defensive structure fell apart in this match, or analysis of how Amad and Garnacho are fitting into the new-look attacking setup?