The relegation zone is a tough place to be right now. The premier league is slowly headed to the New Year and the action is set to start on Boxing Day where a flurry of matches are expected to take place. One of those matches is sure going to have a lot of significance of who stays in the relegation zone and who finds their way out of it. One of those matches will see Crystal Palace take on Cardiff.
Not many people this season can boost of winning the premier league defending champions. Before the start of last week, there were only two that had succeeded in Lyon and Chelsea. However, something extraordinary happened last week. Crystal palace ran out 3-2 winners at the Etihad Stadium, the first loss Man city had suffered in their stadium for almost a year. With that match, crystal palace would have lots of confidence going forward and have proved six points away from the fear of the relegation zone. That match also saw them score three away goals which are their highest output in a long while. They would no doubt have some confidence as they approach this match. Cardiff, on the other hand, would remember that last time out with Manchester United who thrashed them comprehensively 5-1. Cardiff has suffered seven losses in their last eight away games. This makes them just one of the two teams in the league so far that has failed to register an away win this season. They would surely be hoping that there is a change when they meet Cardiff city.
Crystal palace’s form is definitely a whole lot better than Cardiff which would also mean more confidence for them. They have only lost once in their six recent outings so far this season. They have won three matches, drawn two and lost one. They would be happy about their form and would hope to put Cardiff to the sword with it. Cardiff, on the other hand, is languishing in misery right now. They have lost four of their last six games in the league with the other two being wins. History is also not on their side with this one. Cardiff has lost the last three or four games which they have played against Crystal Palace. Crystal Palace has recorded their two recent victories against Cardiff without even conceding a goal. Cardiff would have to rise up despite the odds to get something out of this game.
Line-Ups
When it comes to their lineups, Crystal Palace would expect to welcome back Wayne Hennessey and Kouyate who were both previously out with injury. However, Martin Kellywho plays the full game position for them would be expected to sit out this one with their striker Benteke also missing out due to the presence of injuries. Cardiff would be expecting back the likes of Bennett who missed the last game against Man United due to injury concerns. It promises to be a cracking affair.