The Daily Star Ireland
Bournemouth has been one of the standout surprises of the season, currently sitting in 6th place in the Premier League. Their recent form has been impressive, with three consecutive wins over Wolverhampton (2-4), Tottenham (1-0), and Ipswich (1-2), as well as a draw at home against West Ham (1-1). For a team typically playing a supporting role in English football, their performances have been a welcome surprise. They will travel to Manchester United on Sunday with strong momentum.
In contrast, Crystal Palace has had a rocky start to the season and remains in 15th place, just four points above the relegation zone. However, they have managed a five-match unbeaten streak in the league (2 wins, 3 draws), despite suffering a 3-2 defeat to Arsenal in the English League Cup quarter-finals last week. Palace will face the Gunners again in the Premier League on Saturday.
Bournemouth’s injury list remains largely unchanged, with defenders Araujo and Senesi still sidelined, alongside midfielder Scott and wingers Tavernier and Sinisterra, both of whom have contributed to the team’s offensive efforts. Recently, Ünal scored his first goals of the season but remains behind Evanilson, Semenyo, and Kluivert in the scoring charts.
For Crystal Palace, key players such as defender Rias and right-back Ward are still unavailable, along with midfielders França and Wharton. Up front, Mateta, who recently scored his 7th goal of the season in the Coupe de la Ligue, and Sarr, who has 3 goals in all competitions, remain dangerous attacking threats.
Prediction
Bournemouth has earned a reputation for their exciting, attacking style of play. However, despite their attacking prowess, 13 of their last 13 home games in the Premier League have seen no more than three goals. Crystal Palace’s away form is similarly low-scoring, so a match with few goals is expected.
Prediction: Bournemouth 1-1 Crystal Palace.
