Richards and Palace Keep a Clean Sheet on Monday After European Victory on Thursday
It's been a remarkable stretch for Chris Richards and Crystal Palace, and the American center back is embracing every moment of it.
Last Thursday, Richards helped Palace see off Fiorentina in the UEFA Conference League quarterfinal, holding firm through a nervy second half in Italy after Ismaila Sarr's early away goal had effectively ended the tie as a contest. Despite Fiorentina pulling back to within two goals on the night, Palace defended resolutely to advance 4-2 on aggregate and set up a semifinal clash with Shakhtar Donetsk. Richards spoke openly about the lessons the squad has absorbed throughout the European campaign, noting the adjustments required compared to Premier League football. He also praised young center back partner Jaydee Canvot, who has stepped up impressively since Marc Guehi's winter departure to Manchester City.
On Monday, Richards and Palace returned to league action against a West Ham side fighting for Premier League survival, and the backline was again solid in a 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park—Palace's 12th clean sheet of the campaign. Richards made eight clearances, six of them headers, and contributed nine defensive actions across 90 minutes. A potential Palace winner was disallowed late via VAR, but the point keeps their Conference League momentum intact heading into the semifinal.
No comments:
Post a Comment