Manchester United are now on course to break the record for the most penalties awarded to one side in a single Premier League season.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side returned to Premier League action on Friday night after a three-month absence due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Steven Bergwijn fired the hosts ahead before Bruno Fernandes converted from the spot in the second half to level proceedings.
And with just eight matches remaining for United this season, they are just two penalties shy of the record of 13 penalties awarded to a side in a season, a record currently shared by Crystal Palace in 2004/05 and Leicester City in their title-winning 2015/16 campaign.
United could have been even closer to the record had VAR not overruled a last-minute spot-kick awarded by Jon Moss.
Eric Dier was adjudged to have fouled Paul Pogba in the box and Moss had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, but following a VAR review, the decision was overturned.
“We knew that we could have a penalty against and we were very careful with it,” Spurs boss Jose Mourinho said afterwards.
“We know Manchester United has an incredible record with penalties given this season and we knew that everything in the box was very dangerous for us.
“We had to be very cautious, we were prepared to block every shot with hands behind the body. We knew it could happen.
“I think the first penalty the referee Jonathan made this decision, which I admit is difficult for referees. Then the VAR is a different story.
“Referees can make mistakes but I don’t think VAR should make mistakes. Then the second penalty is incredible for me. Its a foul on Serge Aurier that should kill the situation.
“Then it’s a foul in the box and I feel when VAR goes for simulation the player should be exposed and get a yellow card. But that didn’t happen.
“I feel really upset with these two decisions but that’s how it is.”
