Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admits a lack of rest hurt his side.
The Red Devils had two fewer days to prepare for the FA Cup semi final against Chelsea.
The Blues ran away 3-1 winners after a dominant display and two howlers from David De Gea in the United goal.
Solskjaer tried not to give excuses for the result, but could not ignore the rest factor.
"Of course coming in at half time with the goal after that long lay off was a big blow for us. We lost concentration and that was disappointing," said the United manager.
"Chelsea had an extra 48 hours, that's just a fact but it's no excuse, I can't use excuses.
"It is what it is, we would rather have the semi to play than not, I won't make a fuss out of that."
