Similar to that of West Ham United, Crystal Palace too have had a mixed season so far with 2 draws, 3 wins and 6 losses which see them two places above the relegation zone at the moment. Alan Pardew’s men had a brief winning run against Middlesbrough, Stoke City and Sunderland in between the draws and the defeats.
The fact that they are yet to face the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United and they are already in the 16th position, is a matter of worry for Pardew’s men who have already conceded 19 goals in the opening 11 matches this season.
There win against the likes of Boro and Stoke shows they have firepower up front but the fact that they conceded three to four goals in a game quite often says lowly of their defence. We look at the stars and duds of Palace this season so far.
Stars
James McArthur
He is having an astounding season so far with 4 goals in 9 appearances, creating seven chances for his team and one assist. McArthur has completed 304 passes this season with a pass accuracy of 82%, of which 62% were forward passes. He had almost brought his team back on level terms with his brace against Liverpool but it was not to happen. Not only offensive but McArthur is doing his defensive duties quite well too. He has won 50% of his average duels each game. A surprisingly good performer for the team this season.
Christian Benteke
The Belgian has taken no time to settle in after moving from Liverpool. He has already bagged four goals this season. He has a shot accuracy of 44%, which explains his missed chances. He has used his physical presence to the fullest which has raised concerns at the opponent’s half. He has won 54% of his average duels. When given the chances, he has usually delivered. The problem is, he hasn’t had regular service.
Wilfred Zaha
Although the winger has failed to score lots up front, he has made 4 assists for Palace so far. And with an average passing accuracy of 80% and average shot accuracy of 86%, the 24-year old has been a constant danger in the attacking third.
Duds
Andros Townsend
It seems that the England winger is yet to get back the form after getting relegated with Newcastle United last season. Townsend has scored only one goal this season in 11 appearances, creating 17 chances and no assists. His average shot accuracy has only been 39%. Palace can’t rely in Benteke’s goals, so Townsend needs to do more.
James Tomkins
Tomkins has not been up to the mark this season. He won seven tackles this season with a success rate of only 41%. The English defender has only won 55% of his average duels per game, which explains Palace’s goal-conceding in huge numbers.
Yohan Cabaye
Crystal Palace’s anchorman Cabaye has also not shown that grit in the pivotal position. He has scored one goal this season, creating 11 chances and no assists. With an average shot accuracy of 30%, Cabaye has not been an effective player. His defensive contribution has also been poor with only 48% of average duels won per game.
