Crystal Palace delivered a commanding performance in Dublin on Thursday, securing a 3-0 victory over Shelbourne to strengthen their UEFA Conference League knockout stage aspirations.
First-Half Blitz Seals Victory
The Premier League side needed just 45 minutes to decide the contest, with Christantus Uche opening the scoring in the 14th minute from Eddie Nketiah's precise cross. Nketiah doubled the advantage shortly after, capitalizing on Uche's rebounded shot off the post, before Spanish winger Yeremy Pino completed the rout with a powerful strike before halftime.
European Prospects Brighten
The result lifts Oliver Glasner's side to ninth in the group standings, just one point behind automatic qualification for the last 16. A single point from their final group match against KuPS at Selhurst Park would guarantee at least a playoff berth.
"We started really strong which was important," goalscorer Nketiah told TNT Sports. "We want to go all the way in this competition - it's a great trophy to target."
Squad Depth on Display
With key striker Jean-Philippe Mateta sidelined, stand-in forward Uche impressed alongside Nketiah, demonstrating Palace's attacking alternatives ahead of a congested fixture schedule. The Eagles made three halftime substitutions to preserve energy, though substitutes nearly extended the margin - Romain Esse striking both posts with a remarkable effort.
Injury Concern Overshadows Win
The only setback for the London club came when defender Justin Devenny required first-half substitution, giving 17-year-old Benji Casey his senior debut. Shelbourne failed to register a goal in the competition's group phase, with Palace keeper Walter Benitez denying Daniel Kelly in stoppage time.
Manager Glasner praised his team's execution against defensive opponents: "It was our best performance against a deep-block side. The movement and timing of our attacks were excellent."
Palace now turn their attention to Sunday's Premier League clash against Manchester City before their decisive European fixture next Thursday.
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