FA Cup: Red Cards Galore With Manchester United Semi-Finalists

Manchester United secured their place in the semi-finals of the FA Cup after a dramatic 3-1 comeback win against Fulham at Old Trafford on Sunday. However, the game was marred by chaotic scenes as referee Chris Kavanagh brandished three red cards within 40 seconds.

Fulham stunned United early in the second half when Aleksandar Mitrovic fired his side into a shock 1-0 lead. Despite United’s continued efforts to fight back, they struggled to make a significant breakthrough until late in the game.

Antony found Jadon Sancho on a counterattack, and Sancho went around Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno and fired his shot towards the net, only for former Chelsea and Arsenal player Willian to clear it off the line with his arm. VAR intervened, and Kavanagh pointed to the spot after checking the monitor, which also saw Willian receive a red card for the handball incident.

However, things quickly turned ugly for Fulham as Mitrovic was also sent off after a heated confrontation with Kavanagh over his decision. Fulham manager Marco Silva was also shown a red card after Kavanagh deemed his behaviour to be unacceptable.

FA Cup: Red Cards Galore With Manchester United Semi-Finalists

Bruno Fernandes stepped up for the subsequent penalty and converted past Leno to pull United level in the FA Cup tie. Only minutes after Fernandes’ equaliser, United took the lead against Fulham after Bayern Munich loanee Marcel Sabitzer stylishly flicked in from close range.

Despite the chaos that ensued, fans praised Kavanagh’s handling of the situation, with many stating that this type of behaviour needs to stop. However, Fulham fans were left disappointed, with one supporter describing the 90 seconds as the worst of their entire existence.

Fernandes completed his brace and secured the win for United in injury time after Fred played him through and the Portugal star smashed the ball into the back of the net.

United’s victory over Fulham means they join Brighton, Manchester City, and Sheffield United in the semi-finals of the FA Cup. However, the chaotic scenes that occurred during the game will undoubtedly be a talking point for some time to come.