Aleksandar Mitrovic scored and picked up two assists on a triumphant Premier League return as Fulham beat nine-man Crystal Palace 3-0 on Boxing Day.
There had been question marks of the striker's fitness after his efforts with Serbia at the World Cup, but he showed no ill-effects from a busy period, putting in a star turn at Selhurst Park.
Mitrovic's fine cross saw Bobby Decordova-Reid (32) nod home, before Crystal Palace had their first player of the afternoon sent off two minutes later. Tyrick Mitchell's late, clumsy challenge on Kenny Tete saw him receive a straight red card.
Despite being a goal and a man down, there was still hope for Crystal Palace after the break, but their afternoon continued to disintegrate. James Tomkins (57) was also sent off after picking up two yellow cards - the second for a stray elbow catching Mitrovic in the face.
The Fulham striker was involved in more controversy for Fulham's second. Mitrovic had nodded down Andreas Pereira's corner for Tim Ream (71) to fire home, but was subject to a VAR review for handball. However, despite referee Andy Madley consulting the screen, the goal stood.
Mitrovic capped off a fine afternoon with a late goal of his own. He glanced a header home from Willian's scooped ball from the left, sealing an impressive three points for Fulham.
It sends Marco Silva's side into eighth ahead of the remaining games this week on 22 points. Crystal Palace remain in 11th on 19 points after a difficult return to Premier League action.
What's next?
Crystal Palace play again on New Year's Eve when they travel to Bournemouth in the Premier League. Fulham welcome Southampton to Craven Cottage on the same day. Both games kick-off at 3pm.