Manchester United came from behind to beat 10-man Crystal Palace 2-1 at Old Trafford, extending their unbeaten Premier League run to 11 games. Michael Carrick became the first United manager since Frank O’Farrell in 1971 to win his first five home games in charge.
Palace took a surprise lead inside five minutes. Maxence Lacroix rose unmarked at the far post from a Brennan Johnson corner to head past United’s goalkeeper. United had gone behind at home in the league for the first time since mid-December, and Palace almost doubled their lead when Ismaïla Sarr was denied by Senne Lammens.
United struggled to create clear chances in open play but looked dangerous from set-pieces. Bruno Fernandes forced a strong save from Dean Henderson with a free-kick, and his delivery later found Casemiro, whose header went just wide.
In the second half, United looked sharper and nearly equalised when Benjamin Šeško’s shot was blocked by Jaydee Canvot. The turning point came shortly before the hour mark when Lacroix fouled Matheus Cunha in the box, was shown a red card, and United were awarded a penalty. Fernandes calmly converted to make it 1-1.
United completed the comeback with a second goal from Šeško, who headed in a brilliant cross from Fernandes for his fourth goal in five appearances. Palace had chances to level again, but United held on comfortably with the numerical advantage, moving up to third in the Premier League. Palace now prepare for a London derby against Tottenham in midweek.
