Manchester United twice came from behind in a 2-2 draw at the Reebok Stadium against Bolton, much to the relief of boss Sir Alex Ferguson. Ferguson decided to rest Rio Ferdinand in preparation for the Champions League encounter against Valencia and again saw his side concede sloppy goals.
Twice they went behind, through Zat Knight early in the contest and Martin Petrov in the second half at a time when the Red Devils were looking to take control.
Although United rallied through Nani and Michael Owen, they were unable to take full advantage of defeats for Chelsea and Arsenal yesterday.
"In the first half we should have done better but we did well to come from behind," said Ferguson.
"The second half was very even. Bolton were a real handful and our chances were reduced but we must take credit for coming back again. It shows a bit of character."
Ferguson must now decide whether to stick with Wayne Rooney or partner Owen with Berbatov after the former Liverpool star flicked Nani's near-post free-kick into the far corner 16 minutes from time.
"Scoring goals has always been part of my career, but this one is tinged with a bit of disappointment at not getting three points," said Owen.
"Were helped with a few nice results yesterday but when you don't capitalise fully it is disappointing. It is a long season and we will bounce back."
One man who apparently will miss out on the flight to Spain is Ryan Giggs, with Ferguson confirming the veteran wideman will be out for two weeks after a suffering a slight hamstring strain.
"Ryan is the most serious," Ferguson told ESPN.
"It is a hamstring and I am afraid he will be out for a couple of weeks."
