Entering second-half stoppage time of Manchester United's FA Cup tie versus Sheffield United on Saturday, all signs pointed towards a scoreless draw that would force the two clubs to play out a replay.
For the 10th consecutive fixture in all competitions at Old Trafford, Manchester United entered the interval having failed to score. The Red Devils moved the ball from side to side but never forward, and only by the 69th minute did the club actually tally its first shot on target.
Luckily for Manchester United, a reckless challenge from Sheffield United's Dean Hammond resulted in Memphis Depay going down in the Blades' penalty area, and Wayne Rooney stepped up to punch the Red Devils' ticket to the fourth round of the FA Cup.
The conversion marked Rooney's 239th goal for Manchester United in all competitions, meaning he is only 10 short of Sir Bobby Charlton's club record.
Wayne Rooney scored his 239th goal for Man Utd in all competition. He is now 10 short of the club record held by Bobby Charlton (249). #MUFC
— Infostrada Sports (@InfostradaLive) January 9, 2016
After the final whistle, Manchester United inevitably came under yet another storm of criticism. Paul Scholes insisted he would be "depressed" if he was playing for the Red Devils. Owen Hargreaves said "there was no attacking intent." Nigel Clough argued Sheffield United didn't deserve to lose.
That's an almighty wriggle by Manchester United after a dreadful performance.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) January 9, 2016
Manchester United may be in the fourth round of the FA Cup, but there is very little for its supporters to cheer about.