Fernandes and Sesko storm Palace defence to move United into third

Manchester United claimed a 2-1 comeback victory over 10-man Crystal Palace in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The visitors almost took an early lead in the second minute when Jorgen Strand Larsen found space at the edge of the area, but he sliced his effort wide.

Dean Henderson scuffed a clearance to Bruno Fernandes at the other end, but his effort lacked power to trouble the goalkeeper.

The Eagles took the lead via Maxence Lacroix after he met Brennan Johnson’s delivery from a corner with a bullet header in the fourth minute, leaving Senne Lammens rooted to the spot.

Ismaila Sarr had an opportunity to double the visitors’ score after he was found in the area by Daniel Munoz, but his effort was straight at Lammens.

Harry Maguire could’ve restored parity for United after he met Bryan Mbeumo’s inviting cross, but his header was blocked by Sarr before Benjamin Sesko’s headed effort was saved by Henderson.

Fernandes almost equalised from a free kick, but his effort was tipped over the bar by Henderson. Casemiro then sent a header wide from another Fernandes free kick.

Strand Larsen almost doubled the visitors’ advantage after he was found by Mitchell, but sent his effort well off target.

United were awarded a penalty after Matheus Cunha went down in the area after being challenged by Lacroix. Referee Chris Kavanagh sent Lacroix off after a VAR review.

Fernandes converted the spot-kick, sending Henderson the wrong way to draw United level.

Sesko fired United ahead in the 65th minute after he met Fernandes’ inswinger cross with a bullet header.

Casemiro could’ve put the game to bed after he was found at the back post by Mbeumo, but Henderson saved his effort. Amad Diallo and Cunha also had long-range efforts saved by Henderson.

United have moved up to third in the Premier League standings, leapfrogging Aston Villa in their race for Champions League qualification.