Joshua Zirkzee scored his first Premier League goal in nearly a year as Manchester United came from behind to beat Crystal Palace 2-1 at Selhurst Park
LONDON: Joshua Zirkzee ended his Premier League goal drought before Mason Mount struck the winner as Manchester United fought back to defeat Crystal Palace 2-1 on Sunday.
Ruben Amorim’s team fell behind to Jean-Philippe Mateta’s first-half penalty at Selhurst Park before Zirkzee and Mount scored after the interval.
United secured their first victory in four matches thanks to Zirkzee’s first league goal since December 2024 against Everton.
The Dutch striker had gone 24 league games without scoring since his £36 million move from Bologna.
Zirkzee, aged 24, had failed to score in his eight previous appearances dating back to April.
Mount has also struggled with injuries since joining from Chelsea, with this being just his second goal this season.
The victory provided a much-needed boost for Amorim after United’s disappointing start to the campaign.
Palace suffered their first Premier League defeat at Selhurst Park since February 15 despite taking an early lead.
Mateta opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 36th minute after Leny Yoro fouled the French striker.
The Palace forward had his initial penalty disallowed for a double-touch before converting the retake under new rules.
Zirkzee equalised in the 54th minute with a brilliant strike from Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick.
The Dutch forward controlled the ball on his chest before smashing it across Dean Henderson into the far corner.
Mount put United ahead in the 63rd minute with a low 20-yard drive that went under the Palace wall.
United’s victory marked their first since October as they overcame Palace’s strong home record. – AFP
