The ACN Match Review 24/25 – Crystal Palace (A) | OneFootball

How did we play?

Checking the teams at 7pm to see Palace were playing a load of Premier League first-teamers against our second string was a bit of a buzz kill, but in the circumstances we didn’t look hugely out of our depth – the third and fourth goals made the scoreline more flattering than Palace deserved, and I don’t think we concede either of those with Angus Gunn in goal.

What was the best bit about the day?

The atmosphere generated in the away end – yes, we lost 4-0, but unlike our grim last visit to Selhurst Park under Dean Smith the fans stuck with the team throughout (even if that “we’ve got the ball / we’ve lost the ball” chant can make it seem otherwise). A midweek turnout of 1,746 with a week’s notice at a ground where we always lose is good going and shows that people feel there’s something to get behind.

What was the worst bit about the day?

Watching Amwankwah Forson leave the pitch with his shoulder in a makeshift sling. In just a few weeks he has become a pretty essential component of Thorupball, so fingers crossed for a positive report from the doctor.

Hero of the match

The slick Oscar Schwartau/Ante Crnac link-up that was a double save away from us getting back into the game bodes well, and with Oscar’s family seemingly in the away end (unless some other incredibly keen lady had been to the club shop to get SCHWARTAU 29 printed on her third shirt before he’s even kicked a ball) he gets hero status for this one. Looking forward to seeing more.

How do you rate Selhurst Park as an away day?

Every time I go to Selhurst Park I say “never again”, but living in south London I know I will always be there. And actually, with the away end at something like two-thirds of capacity, this was the most enjoyable experience I’ve had there for a long time – pre-match pints in the sunshine, no half-time crush on the concourse, no queue for the toilets, no letterbox view from the back half of the Arthur Wait Stand. Still, never again, until next time.

Summary in Five Words

We’re focusing on the league.