Superb Diop equalizer stuns United
 |  It looked like Smith's goal would be enough until Diop's late reply |
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LONDON, England (Reuters) -- Papa Bouba Diop scored a stunning late equalizer to give Fulham a deserved 1-1 home draw with Manchester United in the Premier League on Monday.
The Senegal international rifled home from 25 meters in the 87th minute after striker Alan Smith had fired United in front after 33 minutes with a typically tenacious goa.
United should have wrapped up the game in the first half when Roy Keane and Wayne Rooney both hit the post.
Fulham improved markedly in the second period with former United striker Andy Cole also striking the woodwork.
United remain in fourth place, nine points adrift of leaders Chelsea and four behind third-placed Arsenal.
That will be a disappointment for manager Sir Alex Ferguson who was hoping to take advantage after United's main title rivals drew at Highbury on Sunday.
Fulham move up one place to 14th on 18 points.
