Glasner claims Old Trafford bonus after Palace penalty heartbreak against United

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner criticises the decision to award Manchester United a second half penalty in Sunday’s 2-1 defeat.
Glasner insists contact began outside the area and says the call changed the game.
Michael Carrick praises United’s response as they move up to third in the Premier League.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner accused officials of granting Manchester United an “Old Trafford bonus” after his side were denied a result in Sunday’s 2-1 defeat.

Palace led at the break but saw the game turn decisively in the second half when referee Chris Kavanagh awarded United a penalty and sent off defender Maxence Lacroix following a VAR review. Lacroix was judged to have pulled back Matheus Cunha inside the box, a decision Glasner strongly disputed.

“There are a few different situations to judge but it still feels like it is the wrong decision,” Glasner said. “It is not a penalty. Maybe it is a red card for a foul outside the box, but the foul starts outside the area. It is maybe a little bit the Old Trafford bonus.”

Bruno Fernandes converted the penalty to level the match before Benjamin Sesko struck for the third consecutive game to complete the turnaround and secure Michael Carrick’s sixth victory from his last seven matches as United head coach.

Glasner felt the penalty proved decisive in a game Palace had controlled for long spells.

“The second half penalty changed the game,” he added. “We were well organised and disciplined. It is very frustrating because the players gave everything and deserved more.”

Carrick, however, praised his side’s resilience after falling behind, highlighting their reaction and mentality.

“It is the biggest thing for us to take from the game,” Carrick said. “It is the first time we have been behind at halftime in this run. We were a little bit off to start, and they started very well, but the reaction in the second half showed personality and belief.

“This league is tough and you are never going to have it your own way, but to come back like that and turn the game around is the biggest positive for me.”

United’s victory lifts them above Aston Villa into third place in the Premier League table, strengthening their push for Champions League qualification. Palace remain 14th, still looking for consistency after another display that ultimately brought no reward.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.