- Crystal Palace drew 2-2 vs Everton
- Jean-Philippe Mateta scores crucial equaliser
- Jorgen Strand Larsen dissapoints
Daniel Gabbidon highlighted Jean-Philippe Mateta’s impact after the French striker came off the bench and scored a crucial equaliser in Crystal Palace’s 2-2 draw against Everton. The Eagles settled on a point in a very entertaining affair at Selhurst Park.
James Tarkowski gave the visitors an early sixth-minute lead before Ismaila Sarr scored his 20th goal of the season in the 34th minute. But the Toffees retook the lead through Beto in the 47th minute.
Mateta came on during the second half and came up with a superb equaliser. He fired past Jordan Pickford with a fierce 77th-minute strike.
‘That is the difference quality-wise’
Oliver Glasner made several changes to the team that beat Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 last Thursday. That included Jorgen Strand Larsen who came in for Mateta.
The Norweigan struggled to get a foothold in the game and his inconsistent form is a concern. He has managed four goals in 18 outings since arriving from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a club record £48m in January.
Gabbidon responded to Mateta’s goal by pointing out the difference in quality between Palace’s frontmen. He said on BBC Radio 5 Live:
“That is the difference quality-wise when we are talking about centre-forwards. Mateta has barely touched the ball. His first touch and he sticks it in the back of the net. It’s a brilliant first time finish from Mateta, high into the roof of the net, no chance for Pickford.”
Mateta returned from a lengthy spell out on the sidelines with a knee injury in March. Strand Larsen continued as Glasner’s starting number nine but the Frenchman eventually reclaimed the spot.
Today’s game has just raised concerns over Strand Larsen and his ability to be the long-term answer for the Eagles up top. Mateta’s future is still in doubt despite his revival and a potential move to AC Milan could be back on after failing a medical in January.
Strand Larsen’s Struggles
Palace’s decision to break the club’s transfer record and sign Strand Larsen came amid Mateta’s expected switch to Milan. Even when news broke of complications arising from his medical condition, the board opted to go through with the deal.
The Norweigan has put in some promising displays but losing his starting berth in Glasner’s team speaks volumes. At 26 he isn’t exactly young and for such a big fee the club will be expecting him to live up to expectations come next season.
For now, Mateta continues to be the main main in the frontline. The 28-year-old will likely be starting the UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano on May 27th.
