Manchester United vs. Leeds United Rivalry: Blast from the Past

21 Apr 2001: Roy Keane of Manchester United shouts at Alf Inge Haaland of Manchester City following his red card during the FA Carling Premiership match played at Old Trafford, in Manchester, England. The match ended in a 1-1 draw. \ Mandatory Credit: Gary M Prior/Allsport /

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#2) Fabien Barthez, Sir Alex Ferguson vs. Ian Harte

One of the most remarkable seasons for Leeds United before they fell from grace, 2000/01, is also known for the heated verbal spat between Man United and Leeds.

The game ended in a 1-1 draw after Wes Brown‘s own goal was canceled in the embers of the game due to an offside. However, it was the penalty decision from the referee that invited the exchange of words between the two clubs.

At the end of the first half, Manchester United’s shot-stopper Fabien Barthez came to collect an inviting cross from the flank. Though the ball was cleared, the goalkeeper’s studs were directed towards Ian Harte, the Leeds’ striker.

The referee awarded a penalty but never produce a red card for the French international. The goalie stopped the penalty by diving low and denied them a goal.

Starting the war of words, the Leeds skipper Lucas Radebe said that there is a different set of rules for Man United and they are different for the rest of the teams in the league.

Lucas Radebe said:

"They have built up a reputation they are bigger than referees, and officials find that hard to deal with. Maybe it is a case of one rule for United and one rule for everyone else. (Via: Irish Examiner)"

However, the Red Devils’ gaffer squashed the comments and accused Harte of diving.

Sir Alex Ferguson said:

"What Radebe has said is a piece of nonsense. The idea that we are controlling referees has no foundation. We all know Harte has had players sent off this season and last season. That player has a record of diving."

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