Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has confessed he should have let Juan Mata take the late penalty during a 2-1 victory over Liverpool, as the players reacted to the vital victory at Anfield.

The England international stepped up in injury-time to take the spot-kick, but saw his effort saved by Simon Mignolet. Many supporters felt Mata should have had the opportunity instead, after his earlier brace sunk the Merseyside outfit.

Winning the Man of the Match award, Mata gave the visitors an early lead in the 14th minute after a fantastic contribution from fellow Spaniard Ander Herrera, before doubling their lead with a spectacular 59th minute volley.

And with Daniel Sturridge handing Liverpool a lifeline 21 minutes from time, the hosts piled on the pressure before Rooney had the opportunity to secure all three points.

Nevertheless, the United striker remained in high spirits after the final whistle, and took to Twitter to express his delight.

He wrote: “Very happy tonight, fans were amazing. @juanmata8 great goals. Should have let him take penalty. And the United fan in the Kop. Brilliant.”

Rooney was not the only player to take to social media following the clash, as he was joined by a wealth of players celebrating the significant victory.

Michael Carrick also praised Mata for his involvement, saying: “Big big result. These are the ones that you remember, a lot more than just 3 points. Mr @juanmata8 magic, just magic.”

Defender Phil Jones posted a picture of himself with the match winner on the coach back to Manchester, with the caption: “Great result today! This man was unbelievable!"

As goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard also tweeted: “Hakuna Mata!! What a lovely Sunday,” Mata himself praised the team effort, saying: “What a team effort!! What a victory!! What a day!! Unforgettable.”

With pictures of the team celebrating in the changing rooms circulating rapidly following the final whistle, Dutchman Daley Blind posted the photo while also saying: “What a team effort!! What a victory!! What a day!! Unforgettable.”

Ashley Young, Radamel Falcao and Rafael Da Silva all also praised Mata for his phenomenal performance.

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About the author
Kane Brooker
Kane is an 18-year-old Sports Journalist who predominantly covers Manchester United FC while having a heavy involvement in the Boxing office. Having joined the VAVEL team back in October 2014, he has previously featured for Sky Sports News while writing regularly for The Non-League Paper. Kane is also the club reporter, programme editor and press and communications officer for Walton Casuals Football Club.