Change in goal works for Palace
Perhaps the most noticeable change that Alan Pardew made, after a disappointing game against Tottenham last time out, was Wayne Hennessey replacing Alex McCarthy in goal. Such as it was, Pardew’s side were able to secure their first clean sheet of the seasons with Hennessey between the sticks. Granted, he didn’t have too many difficult chances to deal with, but when Hennessey was called upon he kept Palace in the lead. Watford were trying hard to grab an equaliser towards the end of the game, but Hennessey refused to yield.
Joe Ledley was another replacement – for James McArthur – and had a pretty solid game, breaking up the play in the midfield alongside Cabaye. Palace will want Joel Ward back soon, because Martin Kelly had a difficult time against the attacking play coming from Watford’s left side. He struggled visibly, and was unable to keep pace with Ikechi Anya.
