Man United ‘very disappointed’ as Aston Villa punishment leads to Conti Cup exit

The decision to award Sunderland three points against Villa cost United their position as one of the two best runners-up.

Manchester United have questioned an independent tribunal’s decision to allow Aston Villa to compete in the Conti Cup despite fielding an ineligible player.

Villa consented to the accusation after Noelle Maritz came on as a substitute in their 7-0 victory over Sunderland, despite previously playing for Arsenal.

The tribunal decided to remove Villa’s three points and award the game to Sunderland, resulting in United losing their position as one of the two best runners-up.

“We feel that it undermines the integrity of the competition, and of the women’s game.”

The verdict ensures that Sunderland finish as Group A winners, with Villa taking one of the two best runners-up positions alongside Tottenham.

United said in a statement, “We are extremely dissatisfied with this conclusion and do not comprehend its reasoning.