Just when it looked as if Manchester United had found their mojo again after all this time, a stunning late free-kick from Michael Olise denied Erik Ten Hag’s side a 10th successive win in all competitions and second place in the Premier League. A first-half goal from Bruno Fernandes had seemed to provide yet more compelling evidence that the club that have been crowned champions of England more than any other could be serious title contenders once more.
With a trip to face Arsenal at the Emirates to come on Sunday, United trail the leaders by eight points having played a game more. They will know it should be much closer after surrendering their advantage with almost the last kick of the game against a spirited Crystal Palace side that simply refused to give in.
