Fletcher - We need to learn

United midfielder determined to cut out late lapses

Fletcher: Looking for improvement

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Darren Fletcher admits Manchester United need to learn lessons from their trip to Everton after throwing away a two-goal lead.


United had a 3-1 advantage going into the final minute at Goodison Park on Saturday only to concede late goals to Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta.

It is the second time this season United have conceded late on after they also relinquished their lead at Fulham in the final minute.

"We should have learned from the Fulham game and we didn't," said the Scotland international.

Throw away

"We really have to learn from this game if we want to take it forward this season and win the league.

"We can't afford to throw away points as we have done in the two away games so far.

"It just shows you that you think you are winning 3-1 and can take it easy but you've got to keep taking your chances and really finish the game off.

"These are moments you can look back on and say 'That should have been three points' but it is a long season and there are many twists and turns to come.

"It just shows you that you have to play right to the final whistle in this league because teams don't give up, especially when they are at home.

"The more confidence you give to teams, showing them things like that, the more confidence they will get to say 'Keep on right till the end against Manchester United.

"We need to put that to bed and get away from it as soon as possible.

"There is no vulnerability, it is just simple mistakes which we need to eradicate quickly."

Fergie anger

Flecther admits that Sir Alex Ferguson was less than amused, adding: "The manager was really disappointed and made it clear in no uncertain terms of what is expected at this club.

"The game was fizzling out but once you give a team like Everton a bit of hope with the second goal - which came out of nothing - it lifted the whole place.

"They found that extra bit of energy and threw men into the box in the last minute.

"You can't afford to give teams at their home ground any sort of momentum or confidence, a half-chance or a goal, because in the end you suffer for it."