United at the palace

United progressed to the Round of 16 in the Europa League with a comfortable win against FCSB on Thursday night and were hopeful of extending their winning sequence against Palace. But Ruben Amorim shocked everybody by starting Mainoo up front against Palace and the youngster made a bright start to the game, linking up well with his teammates and hitting the post.

Although United looked sharp in the opening 15 minutes, they faded as the game unfolded and in-form striker Jean-Philippe Mateta scored twice in the second half to claim a win for Palace. Manchester United are still afflicted with stage fright at Old Trafford, where Crystal Palace have won two seasons running.

United palace seating chart

It is now a staggering seven home defeats in the Premier League for United in and five defeats in their past six at Old Trafford. This lot can't win successive league games. This was the standard United defeat: no goals and conceding a goal from a set piece. Amorim's assistant, Carlos Fernandes, continues to occupy the technical area whenever there is a dead-ball kick and he must be tempted to charge into the penalty area.

In the 73rd minute, the Stretford End implored Bruno Fernandes to shoot. He hesitated and passed the ball outside the area. When he did hit it, the Stretford Enders shielded for cover. United have not scored in nine league matches this season. Read the full report here. Made such a good save from Jean-Philippe Mateta that the referee gave a goal kick.

But his positioning was awry for Maxence Lacroix's header. Positionally errant at times and should have connected with Amad's first-half cross. Got outjumped by Lacroix for the first goal.