- Glasner unphased by Bournemouth loss
- Looking ahead to Thursday
- Full focus on European glory
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner hinted that his side’s focus has now fully shifted to the Europa Conference League. Palace lost 3-0 at Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday, with heavy rotation and pre-planned fitness substitutions leading to what can only be described as an absent performance.
It was evident from minute one that Palace were not fully invested in the outcome of their Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium. Lackadaisical pressing, slow passing and a generally haphazard approach led to a 3-0 defeat, in a game which meant little to Palace’s league campaign.
Bournemouth were the side with something to play for, as the Cherries continued to push for what would be a remarkable European finish under Andoni Iraola.
Glasner’s comments
From Bobby Manzi, Oliver Glasner joked that the game was simply a build-up and preparation game for Thursday’s second leg in the semi final of the Conference League. Palace go into the game with a 3-1 lead on aggregate, and will be motivated to reach a second final, and lift silverware for the third time in a year.
“Let’s say you have a friend’s birthday and your wedding is a few days later. You are more excited for the wedding. This is the same.”
Whilst his anecdote is a funny one, it does ring true.
A few weeks ago, both Glasner and American defender Chris Richards claimed that despite their progress in Europe, they remained fully focused and committed to winning as many league games as they could.
Five changes to Palace’s strongest side on Sunday suggested otherwise.
“Bournemouth’s semi-final was today – ours is Thursday.”
The truth is, with Palace’s squad, a decision was necessary. Weighing up the importance of both competitions, it is undoubtedly wise that Palace prioritise the Conference League.
A simple decision to make
Despite it not being vocally confirmed until this week, it has been clear that Palace’s main aim this campaign has been to succeed in Europe. In what has been an incredibly competitive and demanding Premier League season, Glasner’s side have simply slipped away from the pack of teams hunting the 6th, 7th and 8th spaces in the table.
Managing the balance of European football has been difficult for Palace, who have won just two of their games following European fixtures this season.
The reality is that from the point of their qualification to the tournament after the play-off victory over Fredrikstad, Palace have been favourites to win the trophy. This pressure has not eclipsed their performances, and Palace now find themselves in a brilliant position to progress to the final in Leipzig.
A two goal cushion established away in Krakow last week means Glasner’s side go into the second leg at Selhurst Park with something to defend. Shakhtar Donetsk proved tricky customers for large spells in the first leg, but Palace will be confident that they can continue their strong home form in the competition.
In seven home ties, Palace have lost just once, which will serve as a confidence boost heading into Thursday’s game.
The experience from winning the FA Cup against all odds will also benefit the final push in Europe, as Glasner aims to bow out in style.
