#2 Defensive mistakes – Big Sam’s biggest worry
For much of the game, Palace were error prone. The number of instances Palace almost self-imploded was difficult to keep a track of. And they finally paid the price when Iwobi was on hand to double the lead. Communication at times between the Palace players seemed to be non-existent as Townsend and Kelly almost ended up creating a goal for Sanchez.
Townsend had been involved in an earlier mix-up as well but made up for it in the second half when his cross almost found Cech unaware. Kelly almost handed a chance to Sanchez on a plate before his keeper, Hennessey made the save that ensured Palace went into the break only a goal down.
Whatever Big Sam said in the break didn’t seem to improve the concentration of the Palace players as they were back to their blundering selves in the second half. Scott Dann was the unlucky party as the ball ballooned off him to fall into Iwobi’s path.
Allardyce ‘s teams are often known for their defensive solidity and he will hope that the Eagles defence can quickly regroup before their next fixture against Swansea City. Palace will hope to win that fixture as they look to put some distance between themselves and the teams battling relegation.
