Christantus Uche Ignites Straightforward Crystal Palace Victory at Irish Side Shelbourne.
Even though entering their first-ever continental adventure, Crystal Palace are learning very quickly. Without key players like forward Jean-Philippe Mateta and wing-back Daniel Muñoz, the Eagles departed Dublin with a comfortable win that virtually secures them a spot in the Conference League playoffs.
A further victory in their upcoming match against Finland's KuPS should be enough to secure straight entry to the last 16, especially following a previous stumble against Strasbourg.
Squad Members Seize the Moment
This match provided a chance for some of Palace's lesser-used talent to impress. Christantus Uche, in only his second start since joining on loan from Getafe, opened the account with a clinical goal. Striker Eddie Nketiah added a second, finding the net for the second game in match.
A Shelbourne side that had finished their domestic season proved no match against a largely second-string Palace lineup. The visitors were already depleted by the news that Mateta and Muñoz are sidelined with knee problems.
Control Asserted from the Outset
In spite of heavy rain in Dublin, Palace rapidly established dominance. A slick passing sequence in the 11th minute, initiated by Daichi Kamada's clever pass, let Nketiah to set up Uche for a straightforward tap-in.
Midfielder Adam Wharton came close soon after, fizzing a powerful effort over the bar. Nketiah subsequently appealed for a penalty after racing into the area, but the official dismissed the protests.
The formerArsenal striker did not have wait long to get his goal, prodding home from close range after Uche's shot had hit the post.
The home side were hanging on for dear life. Defender Kameron Ledwidge was fortunate to avoid a booking for two robust tackles on Yeremy Pino, before Chris Richards struck the woodwork with a header from a corner.
Yeremy Pino Seals the Game
The contest was as good as over eight minutes from half-time. Yeremy Pino weaved past a series of weak challenges before calmly slotting a shot past keeper Wessel Speel to extend the lead to 3-0.
Following the break, coach Oliver Glasner took the chance to withdraw several players like Kamada and Wharton. Replacement Romain Esse came close to scoring his very first touch, only to see his shot blocked.
The youngster was incredibly unlucky later on, seeing one attempt strike off both posts before being gathered on the line. Uche then missed a sitter of a chance, showing there is still room for development in his game.
The only concern for Palace was a late knock to Justin Devenny, who was forced off. This paved the way for 17-year-old striker Benji Casey to make his senior debut, rounding off an otherwise perfect evening for the visiting side.
