Man Utd's controversial penalty and red card decision vs Crystal Palace explained

 Manchester United were handed a lifeline in their Premier League clash on Sunday courtesy of a penalty and red card against Crystal Palace.

Michael Carrick's team found themselves behind early at Old Trafford when Maxence Lacroix's curling header beat Senne Lammens. The remainder of the opening period saw United thwarted by the Eagles, but they were offered an opportunity to seize command of the match in the second half.

Bruno Fernandes' threaded pass set Matheus Cunha up for an attempt on target, only for Lacroix to drag the Brazilian down inside the area. Referee Chris Kavanagh pointed to the penalty spot. Moments afterwards, he was instructed to consult the pitchside VAR monitor before announcing that the Palace defender would be sent off.

"After review, Crystal Palace number 5 commits a clear holding offence which denies a clear, obvious goal scoring opportunity," Kavanagh said. "Final decision is penalty and red card." Due to Lacroix not attempting to play the ball, the decision was more than a yellow card offence.

Fernandes converted the spot-kick to level the scores. Benjamin Sesko then fired United ahead from Fernandes' excellent delivery to continue his remarkable goalscoring run and seal the comeback for United.

Lacroix's significant impact on proceedings came despite uncertainty over his availability to feature for Palace, following his goalscoring comeback from injury during their UEFA Conference League fixture on Thursday evening.

Whilst the Eagles were engaged in European competition, United sought to capitalise on having additional time to prepare for the Premier League encounter.

With the numerical superiority, along with the extra recovery period, United managed to close out the match to extend their remarkable streak under Michael Carrick's guidance. The victory marks the side's sixth win in seven fixtures since the caretaker boss assumed control.

Following Aston Villa's defeat against Wolves on Friday evening, the three points meant United climbed above the Midlands outfit on goal difference to secure third position in the Premier League standings.

United won't have an extended wait until their next fixture arrives, with the team returning to action on Wednesday when they make the journey to St James' Park to face Newcastle United.