Crystal Palace were able to hold off London rivals and newcomers Brentford to a goalless draw at Selhurst Park in a limited display.
A goalless draw wasn’t how Patrick Vieira envisaged starting his home record as Crystal Palace manager. However, they put up a tough display to hold off Brentford, who came into this game at the back of a solid win over Arsenal on the opening matchday.
There were plenty of chances at both ends as players from Palace and Brentford came close to scoring in either half. However, the frame of the goal endured more action than the net, as the game ended in a goalless draw, which helped Brentford keep their unbeaten run this campaign so far.
Chelsea loanee Conor Gallagher was impressive on his Palace debut, while Vicente Guita put in a tidy display. Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo’s free-kick hitting the bar was the closest the Bees came to finding a goal. David Raya was also instrumental in dealing with dangerous moments, especially when he tipped a James McArthur long-range shot over.
Vieira may not be content with the result, but the display of some of his young stars was pleasing enough. The French manager would be encouraged by Gallagher and Marc Guehi as he builds a team that can sustain the rigours of an entire season. Here are the ratings for Crystal Palace players from their goalless draw against Brentford at Selhurst Park.
Vicente Guaita – 7/10
The experienced Spanish stopper put in a solid display. Guaita was superior within his box, claiming everything that was thrown his way. He couldn’t do much about the free-kick but did most things right in the afternoon.
Joel Ward – 5.5/10
Vieira selected Ward to give his side defensive solidity, and his inadventurous display in attacking the ball was expected. However, there were moments when the Brentford attackers got the better of him without causing any real damage. Overall it was a decent display.
Joachim Andersen – 6/10
Not the best of debut performances, as Andersen was rash at times. Displays like these could hamper the overall balance of the game as the Dane could have been booked. However, it also showed Vieira that he has a defender capable of putting in some tough performances, the exactly why he was signed up.
Marc Guehi – 6.5/10
Unlike Andersen, Guehi was a composed presence at the back, allowing calmness to radiate in the backline despite the threat from the Bees attacker. It’s hard to comprehend this was just Guehi’s second game at this level.
Tyrick Mitchell – 6/10
Vieira seemed to have given Mitchell specific instructions to mark Sergi Canos, and he did the job expertly. The frustrated Spaniard was seen changing flanks due to his inability to get past Mitchell.
Cheikhou Kouyate – 6/10
Kouyate would be glad to play central midfield again, where he is more effective than the central defensive role he played under Roy Hodgson. He matched up to Frank Onyeka’s physicality in the middle and helped control the game better for Palace.
James McArthur – 5/10
A relatively quiet afternoon for McArthur, as he kept the midfield ticking somewhat. However almost came close to giving his side the lead with a superb long-range effort, which Raya expertly tipped over.
Conor Gallagher – 7/10
Gallager missed the Chelsea game due to his ineligibility but was an all-action figure against Brentford. He was the creative spark in the Palace side and was extremely unlucky not to finish the game with a goal.
Wilfried Zaha – 5.5/10
Zaha still seems to be getting to grips with a new manager and a slightly different attacking role in the new setup. He got off to a bright start with early exchanges, then not faded as the game went on.
Jeffrey Schlupp – 4/10
Schlupp had a game of less or no impact at all. Jordan Ayew replaced him for the side’s only substitution.
Christian Benteke – 4/10
One great chance arrived, only for Benteke Benteke to send it over. Ineffective, but this has been the norm with him over the seasons as he picks up some form later in the campaign.
Substitutes
Jordan Ayew – 5/10
He came in place of Schlupp and tried to combine with fellow forwards to no avail.
