Manchester United came from behind to defeat 10-man Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, moving up to third in the Premier League after a match dominated by penalty controversy and a debated red card.
Palace struck early through Maxence Lacroix, whose fourth-minute finish marked the earliest goal United have conceded this season.
The visitors looked poised to claim a third successive win at Old Trafford and carried their threat into the second half.
The turning point arrived when Lacroix grappled with Matheus Cunha as the forward surged towards goal.
Although the initial contact occurred outside the box, the defender continued holding Cunha inside the area.
Referee Chris Kavanaghreviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor and upheld his decision to award a penalty, also dismissing Lacroix for denying a goalscoring opportunity.
Bruno Fernandes converted confidently in the 57th minute to level the contest before Benjamin Sesko powered home a header from Fernandes’ cross eight minutes later.
The Slovenian striker has now scored in three consecutive matches and seven times in his past eight appearances.
Former United goalkeeper Dean Henderson kept Palace within touching distance with superb saves from Casemiro and substitute Amad Diallo, but the hosts held firm.
The victory extends interim boss Michael Carrick’s unbeaten start to six wins and a draw from seven games and lifts United above Aston Villa on goal difference.
It is the first time they have occupied third place since Erik ten Hag’s debut campaign in 2023.
Palace remain 14th, comfortably clear of the relegation zone but left to reflect on a decisive moment that swung the game.
United’s rise up the table continues, though not all is harmonious.
Some supporters voiced discontent toward minority owner Jim Ratcliffe during the match, yet on the pitch Carrick’s side are flourishing.
With no European commitments and fewer midweek fixtures ahead, a Champions League return now looks firmly within reach.
Sesko’s resurgence has provided the focal point United previously lacked, particularly during Ruben Amorim’s tenure.
Supported by Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, the attack appears balanced and confident.
The only concern was an early injury to Luke Shaw, who was forced off after 24 minutes and could miss the upcoming trip to Newcastle.
Under Oliver Glasner, Palace executed their tactical plan impressively for much of the contest.
Their three-at-the-back system functioned smoothly, and midfielder Adam Wharton stood out against a side reportedly interested in signing him.
However, Lacroix’s dismissal altered the match irreversibly.
While Cunha may face scrutiny for going to ground, the defender’s prolonged hold created the opening for the referee’s intervention.
Palace attempted to respond, but Henderson’s heroics were ultimately required to prevent a heavier defeat.
For Glasner’s men, this was another case of promise without reward - and another reminder of how fine margins can dictate outcomes at the highest level.
