The alarm bells might ring a bit softer for Crystal Palace after this controlled and commanding victory over Ipswich. The win was a breath of fresh air for Oliver Glasner, suggesting that the club's relegation fears could be short-lived. Jean-Philippe Mateta's goal, just before the hour mark, was a fitting reward and cast a shadow over Portman Road.
Ipswich, usually a formidable force at home, appeared scrappy and subdued. Kieran McKenna's main concern was that his team looked outclassed by Palace throughout the match. With both teams starting on equal points, Ipswich's inability to match Palace's physicality and experience could prove costly. The home side is yet to secure a win and will soon need a string of victories to maintain local morale.
In freezing conditions, the question at kick-off was whether either team could ignite their relegation battle. Ipswich knew the season would pose this challenge, their main failing being the inability to convert consistent performances into results. Injuries have not helped, with the latest being to influential right-back Axel Tuanzebe, leading to local-born Harry Clarke starting.
Palace, with higher ambitions in August, hoped that the euphoria from their dramatic draw with Newcastle would provide a boost. The return of Eberechi Eze, after a month out, was a welcome sight. Both teams showcased their transition strengths, with Jack Clarke and Liam Delap for Ipswich and Jacob Greaves for Palace.
Palace began to dominate, with Eze finding space and looking increasingly comfortable. Ipswich struggled to hold possession, and their error-strewn passages led to opportunities for Palace. Despite Ipswich's best efforts, Palace's heavier punch soon proved decisive.
When an Ipswich attack faltered, Palace capitalized, with Eze feeding Mateta. Mateta outpaced and outmuscled Greaves, finishing clinically to score. Ipswich, usually resilient, struggled to compete physically. McKenna's triple substitution did little to change the tide, and Mateta nearly sealed the victory.
Ipswich sensed a reprieve but failed to capitalize, with Palace now wondering if their campaign has finally taken off.
Source link: https://www.theguardian.com
