RALPH Hasenhuttl admitted the VAR check for a Saints penalty after a potential Harry Maguire foul on Armando Broja was “very quick”, but added his side could have won without a spot-kick.

Many fans were frustrated after the United captain bundled Albanian international Broja over inside the area with just minutes left on the clock.

While then trying to climb over the 20-year-old’s body, Maguire’s studs came down and landed right on top of the forward’s shin and ankle.

However, neither referee Stuart Attwell or the VAR – operated by Jared Gillet – decided the incident was worthy of a foul, after a very brief check.

Daily Echo: Manchester United defender Harry Maguire (Pic: PA)Manchester United defender Harry Maguire (Pic: PA)

Broja had been a constant nuisance for the United backline, as both sides left feeling aggrieved they didn’t take more than a point from the 1-1 draw at Old Trafford.

Speaking after the match, Hasenhuttl reacted: “But when you challenge, it seems from us, it only takes two or three seconds and immediately it’s checked, it’s always very quick.

“But I mean, we had chances to win without this penalty and this is what is disappointing but I don’t want to be too critical today.

“As I say, after one less day to recover you could feel we had a little bit less pressure, it was enough to win the point here, it was a big signal today.”

Saints were still able to travel back down south in jubilant moods, after completing a run of three matches versus Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and United unbeaten with five points.

The result lifted Saints into the top-half of the Premier League by the close of play on Saturday, with 29 points from 24 matches, having only lost seven all season.

Asked if the point at the famous ground was important for the side’s momentum, Hasenhuttl replied: “Yeah, for sure.

“We spoke about the last few games where we have played against some of the best teams in the league and we didn’t lose one time so this is a big moment for us and makes us stronger.”