United produced a spirited performance at Stamford Bridge, only for Lingard's stunning goal to be cancelled out by Diego Costa in stoppage time.
The much-debated 'freedom' aspect of United's play was certainly in evidence in the first half, the only disappointment being a failure to carve out much in the way of clear-cut chances until Darmian's fizzing cross across the box just before half-time failed to find a connection.
Shortly after, there were screams for a penalty from the more excitable elements within the Chelsea line-up when Blind's elbow deflected Terry's shot wide. It was probably the Dutchman's proximity that brought a shake of the head from referee Oliver but there's no question they sometimes get given.
Prior to that eventful end to the half, Martial had produced United's best effort, his curling shot forcing a fine save from Courtios.
United came out purposefully in the second half. Jesse Lingard (above) had already drawn another saved out of the Chelsea keeper when he produced arguably United's goal of the season so far. The ball fell to him with his back to goal and the youngster controlled it and swivelled before firing his shot high into the Chelsea net.
By that point Zouma had been forced off the field with what looked an horrific injury. Nonetheless, Chelsea were able to reorganise quickly and put United on the back foot for the remainder of the game. Pedro and Hazard were both introduced and United were only able to stay in front thanks to two outstanding saves from De Gea.
It looked like we might have weathered the storm but the pressure produced a rare error in the United back line when Blind stepped out to allow Diego Costa to sneak in behind and finish with a low shot from the left. It was arguably an equaliser Chelsea's response had deserved but the Reds will be gutted to have allowed the three points to slip away at such a late stage of the game.
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