Jean-Philippe Mateta scored his sixth goal of the season as Crystal Palace beat Brentford 2-0 at Selhurst Park, lifting the Eagles into the Premier League’s top seven.
Crystal Palace ended a three-match winless run in the league with a composed performance that showcased their set-piece prowess and defensive discipline. Mateta opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a looping header after Jefferson Lerma nodded a free kick into his path. The French striker now has five goals in his last six matches for club and country.
Brentford, who had opened the scoring a league-high seven times this season, were stunned again early in the second half when captain Nathan Collins inadvertently glanced a long throw from Lerma into his own net. That own goal gave Palace breathing room and allowed manager Oliver Glasner to manage the game comfortably.
Glasner’s Tactical Edge
Palace boss Oliver Glasner credited his staff for preparing the team to dominate set plays, which proved decisive:
> “We trained 25 minutes on the pitch and 15 minutes just defending and attacking throw-ins. Credit to my assistants who prepared all the clips,” Glasner said.
The win also extended Palace’s unbeaten home run to 11 matches in the Premier League, a testament to their growing consistency at Selhurst Park.
Match Highlights
- ⚽ Mateta (30’) – Header from Lerma’s assist
- ⚽ Collins (51’ OG) – Own goal from Lerma’s long throw
- 🧤 Clean Sheet – Palace’s third in five matches
- 📊 Palace now 7th in the Premier League table
Brentford, who had recently beaten Liverpool and West Ham, struggled to create clear chances and remain 12th in the standings.
Comments
Post a Comment