Crystal Palace host West Brom on Saturday afternoon with the hosts coming into this game following a 0-1 win at Watford and the visitors looking to bounce back from their 2-3 defeat at home to Everton on Monday despite being 2-0 up.
We spoke to Alex Newton, the editor of Read West Brom to get his thoughts on the upcoming game.
Alex is hopeful that his side can bounce back from the disappointing defeat at the Hawthorns on Monday and question the tactics that ex-Palace boss Tony Pulis used during the clash. When questioned about who the Eagles should be fearful of in the game, it’s an obvious choice and Saido Berahino was mentioned due to his fine form since vowing not to play for the club.
For this and more, read below.
We thank Alex for his time and hope West Brom the best for the season – just not this weekend!
1) What have you made of Palace’s start to the season? Surprising?
While I’m a little shocked I expected them to do well this season. You had a strong end to last season and you could see the squad starting to click together with the likes of Bolasie and Zaha. While I think you’ll do well this season I still expect you to finish mid table.
2) How important is it that the Baggies bounce back from their defeat to Everton, bearing in mind they were 2-0 up?
Massively important. Monday night was a huge wake up call for the squad, they thought they had the game won at 2-0. Pulis’ tactics were very questionable at times too. A lot hinges on the Palace game as a loss would really tarnish a good start to the season (pre-Everton). A win would give us a solid base to build on so hopefully we can replicate last season’s 2-0 win.
3) Is there someone in particular that Palace should be looking out for?
Saido Berahino. He’s starting to find his best form again after vowing never to play for the club again in the summer. He’s scored 2 in his last 2 games including the derby day winner against Aston Villa. He looks like he really wants to make a positive impact with the fans again and a goal at Selhurst the weekend would do just that.
4) Who would you highlight as Palace’s key man?
I really like watching Puncheon. He works well in the current system and has a lot to offer going forward and defensively. He can bring the wingers into the game and always gets the transition from defence to attack going.
5) What’s your predictions for the game?
My heart says Albion will scrape a draw but my head says a comprehensive Palace victory. I’ll go 3-1 Palace with Berahino netting for us and Zaha, Puncheon and Sako getting on the scoresheet for the hosts.
