Palace beat Brentford 2-0 with Mateta header and Collins own goal

Crystal Palace ended a run of inconsistent results with a 2-0 home win over Brentford at Selhurst Park on Saturday, Jean-Philippe Mateta headed the opener and a Nathan Collins own goal from a Jefferson Lerma long throw settled the contest early in the second half. Dean Henderson returned between the sticks as Palace kept a clean sheet and closed out the victory.

Mateta opened the scoring in the first half when he met a set-piece delivery from Yeremy Pino, directing a powerful header past Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. Minutes after the interval Palace doubled their lead when Lerma’s long throw created chaos in the Bees’ box and Collins, attempting to clear, nodded the ball into his own net. Palace defended the lead professionally thereafter, limiting Brentford to few clear chances.

The match highlighted a tactical duel over long throws, an area both sides have exploited this season. Palace’s use of the tactic proved decisive, with several throw-ins causing sustained pressure and contributing directly to the second goal. Manager Oliver Glasner said the coaching staff prioritised preparation for that element despite a heavy schedule, noting the limited training time they...