United will fight back - Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United's title setback will only inspire his players to keep going to the last minute of the campaign.

United's lead over Chelsea has been pegged back to three points after the weekend's matches, but Ferguson believes their 2-2 draw at Middlesbrough was a point won rather than lost.

"We could have lost the game, there's no question. They had some chances - and at times our defending was a bit haphazard, I thought," he said.

The Barclays Premier League leaders took the lead at an icy Riverside courtesy of Cristiano Ronaldo's 37th goal of the season - but two goals from Brazilian striker Afonso Alves put Boro ahead - and it was left to Wayne Rooney's late deflected effort to secure a share of the spoils.

"At other moments we could have won the game, because some of the quality of our football was terrific," Ferguson added.

"The nature of the club is that we never give in, and that's a great quality to have at this time of year.

"It sends out a signal to everyone that we will never give in. We will stretch ourselves in every game as long as we can."

And Ferguson believes Sunday's result could yet turn out to be a title-clincher.

"That point could be important, absolutely. Our goal difference is good obviously, but we cannot take anything for granted," he said.

"I said some weeks ago consistency will win us it and I think the most consistent team will do that - and I hope that it's us."