• Cambridge 0-0 Manchester United

Van Gaal: Everything was against us

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal complained "every aspect of a match is against us" after Cambridge deservedly earned a FA Cup fourth-round replay at Old Trafford.

Van Gaal and his distinguished visiting side endured an uncomfortable evening at the Abbey Stadium in a goalless draw which will live long in the memory for League 2 Cambridge, the lowest ranked side remaining in the competition.

"We have to come here, the pitch is not so good, but that can influence also that you play in another playing style," Van Gaal said.

Cambridge keeper made three brilliant saves to deny Robin van Persie, Radamel Falcao and Angel Di Maria © Getty Images

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"The opponents are always giving a lot more than normal. And defending is always easier than attacking.

"Then you have seen the referee [Chris Foy]. It's always the same. Everywhere I have coached these games - and I have coached them also with other clubs - it's always the same."

Van Gaal refused to expand on his appraisal of Foy, but was critical of his side's first-half showing, believing they played Cambridge's game, rather than their own.

He added: "We made the same error as against Yeovil Town and against QPR, that we played in the same playing style as the opponent and that we don't have to do.

"It was a pity we had to wait again until half-time, but I the second half I was pleased.

"We didn't score and I have to give also the credit to this club, of course, because Cambridge United played very well, very well organised, with the heart. They have fought till the end.

"We are still in the cup and that's the most important thing. I've seen lots of times big clubs losing against such opponents."

Van Gaal had previously complained about how "ridiculous" the debate over his 4-4-2 formation was, but he selected four at the back against Cambridge.

He added: "I know the statistics of our former performances. You could see we create more chances [playing 4-4-2].

"It is not only the system. It is also the performance of the system. It is not so easy to change the system or something. That is not the solution. That I know."

Van Gaal rested Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata, but did not rue the decision with hindsight.

"I'm not regretting that," he said.

It could have been so different for Cambridge had Josh Coulson scored this header from inside four yards © Getty Images

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