Crystal Palace secured a vital 4-2 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, keeping their hopes for a top-half finish alive in the Premier League. The game at Selhurst Park would be an emotional send-off for veteran defender Joel Ward. After an amazing 13 years with the club, that night was his last match in the stadium.
Special mention to Eddie Nketiah, who scored two second-half goals that helped push Palace into the lead and ultimately a win. The home side’s team sheet brought surprise with six changes from their FA Cup victory — Ward’s emotional send-off owing the day’s focus. Wolves endured their fair share of lineup shuffling during Vitor Pereira’s short-lived tenure. Their valiant attempts were no match, however, during a heavyweight special election brawl.
Emotional Farewell for Joel Ward
Joel Ward, 35, teared up as he walked out on the pitch for the final time at Selhurst Park. He collapsed to his knees in the centre circle after playing 12 years and 363 appearances for the European giants. He waved to the audience that had followed him and supported him through his phenomenal career.
“What a way to sign off. I couldn’t have written a better story and a better ending. I feel honoured and incredibly blessed to have had this time at Palace and I look forward to the next challenge in front of me.” – Joel Ward
Ward’s commitment and leadership made their years on the team instrumental. His leaving hands the club a considerable change—an end of an age. He was cheered like a gladiator and applauded as he left the field. Along the way, they recognized his significant contributions to Crystal Palace with a joyous and enthusiastic celebration.
Nketiah Shines in Palace’s Offense
Eddie Nketiah emerged as a standout performer for Crystal Palace, scoring two crucial goals that highlighted his growing partnership with Romain Esse. The young forward ended up scoring his first goal after some brilliant combination play on the left wing. He and Esse clicked really well to bring it to life.
Daniel Munoz was similarly influential in the attack, freeing up Ismaila Sarr on the left flank. Sarr’s next cross set up Nketiah’s second, exemplifying Palace’s attacking threat on the counter all game.
Eberechi Eze capped off the scoring for Palace with a perfectly-placed finish. The aim capped their leadership and secured all three points of this thrilling confrontation.
Defensive Struggles for Wolves
Despite their industriousness, Wolverhampton were no match for the aggression displayed by Crystal Palace. Jorgen Strand Larsen got both goals on the day for Wolves. His second goal was a special one, as it was his 50th career goal in professional football. Yet, defensive gaffes by the extremely young, but talented home team proved dagger-like on several occasions.
Vitor Pereira voiced his frustration post-match, reflecting on his team’s performance:
“My team is one with organisation and tactical maturity. Today there were too many mistakes for one game. All four goals were mistakes. All of them.” – Vitor Pereira
What made things even worse for the Wolves was their complete lack of finishing ability. Emmanuel Agbadou notched his first since January! Unfortunately, that lead wasn’t enough to tide over the fierce comeback from Crystal Palace.
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