Crystal Palace showcased their determination and tactical prowess in a thrilling 2-1 victory against Fulham, propelling them to fourth place in the Premier League standings. The scene for this historic match was set on a rainy night at Craven Cottage. Marc Guehi was to be their hero on this occasion, with a late header securing all three points for the Eagles. This victory represents an incredible achievement for the team as well. They did so impressively, with Oliver Glasner at the helm since March 2024.
Since Glasner’s appointment, Crystal Palace has amassed 52 points from 33 Premier League matches, positioning themselves among the league’s most formidable sides. Our only recent visitors Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City have gained more away points. This milestone is a testament to Palace’s growing stature in the Premier League. Even through this most amazing of runs, Glasner has been careful not to get ahead of himself when it comes to the possibility of Champions League qualification.
A Tactical Approach
The match against Fulham saw Crystal Palace adapt strategically in light of recent injuries. Daniel Munoz was the hero of their last match with an incredible game-winning effort. Sadly, he’s gone down himself with a knee injury. With Moreno out, Nathaniel Clyne was immediately thrust into the starting XI. Eddie Nketiah strengthened the assault division, while Jefferson Lerma found himself on the bench.
Glasner’s tactical iterations reaped rewards as our side showed overwhelming game control. Adam Wharton was a star performer in midfield, consistently reviewing physicality for his dominant display.
“I would say Palace deserved the win. They just had a bit more knowhow. Adam Wharton in midfield was magnificent. It was a masterclass, never gave the ball away. He has such an understanding of where his team-mates are.” – Jamie Redknapp
The match was not without its controversies. Palace had their penalty claims waved away when Andersen’s clash with Clyne just outside the area could have gone either way. This single incident incited fiery protest between not just players but the football-fan public.
A Hard-Fought Victory
So it went, with the first 45 minutes seeing both squads creating chances but unable to capitalize. Palace opened the scoring early in the second half when Nketiah headed home. Fulham hit back immediately, leveling with their own set-piece just seconds later. The game looked like it was headed for a goalless draw until Guehi’s late intervention.
Guehi’s header from a corner kick rounded out the scoring and secured the win. It made him the Player of the Match! His on-time contribution underlined Palace’s potency in set-piece scenarios, a major facet of their overall game plan.
“We created chances, we played and defended really well, didn’t give them anything and then always were threatening when we played forward.” – Oliver Glasner
Crystal Palace’s unstoppable late surge was a testament to their resilience as well as their exceptional fitness, especially in the match’s dying moments. Glasner had no reservations about singing the praises of his team’s performance. He praised their remarkable work over the last 20-25 minutes when being tired had been a huge obstacle in the past.
“I’m really proud of the team and proud of the performance and especially the way we played the last 20-25 minutes because in the last games it looked like we were getting a little bit fatigued.” – Oliver Glasner
Looking Ahead
Crystal Palace can certainly celebrate this hard-fought victory, they know that the battle is far from over. Glasner has tempered the expectations for Champions League qualification. He is wholly intent on making sure the team gets better and being more consistent.
We want to applaud all the work they’ve done in recent weeks. He understands that keeping this momentum going will be the key to their dreams. Scoring would do wonders for the Eagles’ recent form, though, as mentality and confidence under Glasner’s guidance has definitely appeared in recent weeks.
Marco Silva, Fulham’s head coach, recognized the experience and tactical discipline of Palace’s players as being superior on the day. While crediting his own players for the way they managed to break up Palace’s rhythm, he bemoaned wasted chances and tough calls that conspired to deny them a result.
“What we should have done different was to move quicker the ball. And our possession in the back was too slow.” – Marco Silva
“Of course, again, the goal was disallowed. Probably the [toe] nail of Chukwueze is too big for the sport that we are playing. Now, another decision from the VAR against ourselves.” – Marco Silva
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