BIRMINGHAM: Alex Ferguson did his best to dispel any doubts about Man-chester United’s challenge for the Premier League title by insisting his side were on course for glory despite dropping points in a 1-1 draw away to Birmingham.
United, still unbeaten in the league this season, were set for victory after Dimitar Berbatov’s sublime goal gave them the lead just before the hour mark at St Andrew’s here on Tuesday.
But Lee Bowyer’s controversial 89th minute equaliser denied United the full three points and left them top on goal difference alone from Manchester City, although Ferguson’s men do have two games in hand over their local rivals.
Ferguson is desperate to regain the title from stuttering champions Chelsea and he will enter the New Year with United in the place which he feels sends out danger signals to all those jostling for position behind the Red Devils.
“I think we’ve a chance with the title,” United manager Ferguson said ahead of his side’s return to the Midlands to play West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.
“At this moment in time there are five or six teams who are all contesting that area.
“I always say if you get to New Year in first position, Manchester United have a big chance then.”
Ferguson made clear his displeasure with referee Lee Mason for costing United a two-point cushion for failing to spot a handball by Birmingham substitute Nikola Zigic in the build up to Bowyer’s leveller.
“It was handball and a foul,” he said. “He went straight through the centre half. If the referee can’t see that what chance have you got?” said Ferguson.
“You would expect in a game of this importance they (the officials) would see that. If they can’t what hope have you got?
“I have no complaints with my team. They fought hard and worked hard after only two days’ rest.”
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