Penalty drama as Man United rally to beat 10-man Crystal Palace

By Tolulope Oke

Manchester United came from behind to defeat 10-man Crystal Palace 2-1 at Old Trafford on Sunday, climbing to third place in the Premier League after a match dominated by controversy.

Palace stunned the home crowd of 73,934 when Maxence Lacroix headed them in front in the fourth minute, rising highest to convert from close range.

United struggled to break down the visitors in the first half and went into the break trailing 1-0.

The turning point came in the 56th minute. Lacroix, already on a booking, grabbed Matheus Cunha as the Brazilian drove towards goal. Though the initial contact appeared to start outside the box, the defender continued holding on as Cunha moved into the area and eventually went down.

Referee Chris Kavanagh pointed to the spot and, after consulting the pitchside monitor, upheld his decision. Lacroix was shown a red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.

Bruno Fernandes made no mistake from 12 yards in the 57th minute, sending former United goalkeeper Dean Henderson the wrong way to level the score.

Eight minutes later, United completed the turnaround. Fernandes delivered a pinpoint cross and Benjamin Sesko powered home a header for his third goal in as many matches.

Sesko’s strike proved decisive, though United had chances to extend their lead. Henderson produced a brilliant reaction save to deny Casemiro and later kept out a fierce effort from substitute Amad Diallo.

The win continues United’s impressive run under Michael Carrick, whose side now have six wins and a draw from their last seven games. The result lifts them above Aston Villa into third place on goal difference — the first time they have reached that position this season.

Palace remain 14th, 10 points clear of the relegation zone, but their afternoon will be remembered for the controversial penalty and red card that shifted the momentum firmly in United’s favour.