Late Matheus Cunha deflection earns Manchester United point at Fulham

Matheus Cunha’s late deflected strike rescued Manchester United from a third defeat in a week as they drew 1-1 with Fulham in the Premier League at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

United appeared set to enter the extended international break under increased pressure, with manager Michael Carrick facing mounting scrutiny after Fulham took the lead shortly after the hour mark.

Calvin Bassey’s effort struck goalkeeper Senne Lammens, rebounded against Lisandro Martinez and ended up in the net, with the goal officially recorded as an own goal by the Manchester United defender.

But Cunha levelled in the 89th minute when his shot took a huge deflection and wrong-footed Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

The result provides some relief for United, although they have now won only one of their past five Premier League matches.

An open first half saw chances at both ends. Bruno Fernandes struck the woodwork for the visitors, while Leno produced several impressive saves to keep Fulham from falling behind.

Manchester United were punished for a sluggish start after the interval as Fulham increased the pressure and eventually found a way through.

The visitors responded as Bryan Mbeumo tested Leno with a curling effort, but the Fulham goalkeeper made another fine save to preserve his side’s advantage.

Fulham were on course for their first league victory under new manager Alvaro Arbeloa and appeared close to ending a long wait for a home win against Manchester United, having not beaten them at Craven Cottage since 2009.

Cunha’s late stroke of fortune denied them both achievements, leaving the two sides to share the points.