Manchester United produced a dramatic late surge to defeat Fulham 3–2 at Old Trafford on Sunday, continuing interim manager Michael Carrick’s flawless start in charge.
The hosts appeared to be cruising after goals from Casemiro and Matheus Cunha put them firmly in control, but a chaotic closing spell saw Fulham claw their way back before Benjamin Sesko struck in stoppage time to seal victory.
United opened the scoring in the 19th minute when Bruno Fernandes delivered a precise free-kick to the far post, where Casemiro powered a header beyond Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.
The home side doubled their advantage shortly after the break through Cunha, who finished clinically from a tight angle following a clever no-look pass from Casemiro.
Fulham, one of the league’s most in-form sides in recent weeks, refused to fold.
The visitors were controversially denied a goal when VAR ruled out Jorge Cuenca’s effort for offside, but their persistence was rewarded in the 85th minute.
Raul Jimenez converted from the penalty spot after being brought down by Harry Maguire, cutting United’s lead to one.
The match then erupted into life. Deep into stoppage time, Fulham winger Kevin curled a stunning equaliser into the far corner from outside the area, seemingly snatching a point for the visitors.
However, United responded almost immediately. Sesko latched onto a Fernandes pass inside the box and drove a powerful finish high into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The result extends Carrick’s winning run to three matches, following notable victories over Manchester City and league leaders Arsenal.
United are now unbeaten in seven league outings and have climbed to fourth place, strengthening their push for Champions League qualification.
Carrick, who was dismissed by Middlesbrough last year, has quickly transformed United’s fortunes, matching a feat achieved only once during Ruben Amorim’s 14-month tenure.
His impact has prompted growing calls for the club to consider a permanent appointment.
Off the pitch, tensions remain. Ahead of kick-off, hundreds of supporters associated with the “1958” fan group staged a protest against the club’s ownership, criticising the Glazer family and football operations under Jim Ratcliffe.
Fans displayed banners, lit flares, and chanted slogans accusing the hierarchy of mismanagement.
Despite the unrest, United’s late heroics ensured Carrick’s golden run continues — and kept alive hopes of a return to Europe’s elite competition.
