Chelsea travel to Selhurst Park to play against Crystal Palace on (8:00 AM Pacific, 15:00 GMT) Saturday, March 29th. Chelsea currently sit in 1st place in the Premier League, while Crystal Palace sits in 17th place. For both teams this game is huge. Chelsea will look to chase their title chances while Palace is fighting to keep out of relegation. Chelsea have somewhat of a tendency to fall out against weaker sides so this game cannot be counted out.
Chelsea’s last away game resulted in a loss against Aston Villa. With the squad Chelsea bolsters, it should be expected to win games like that. Despite the loss, Chelsea have won four of their last six games. From now until the season ends, Chelsea cannot afford to even tie a single game.
Crystal Palace have had less fortune, only winning one in their last six. Despite the poor record, Palace have done surprisingly well at home with three wins in their last six. With only five goals conceded in their past five games they have shown a strong defense.
Jose Mourinho has yet to concede that Chelsea are title favorites, and recent polls have shown they are indeed. With Manchester City and Arsenal looming just below the point ladder, it is no surprise that he is unwilling to speak out.
The key player for Chelsea will be Eden Hazard. If the speedy Belgian is able to tear of Palace’s defense early in the game it will not end well for Palace. Eden Hazard is debatably the best player in the Premier League and cannot be forgotten. We should not be surprised if we see a classic cut into the box with a curled shot into the corner.
Related: Possible Chelsea Lineup vs Crystal Palace
The key player for Crystal Palace is Mile Jedinak. If the Australian is able to control Chelsea’s monstrous midfield, then Crystal Palace stand a chance. If Jedinak is able to captain his squad and show his leadership abilities
Tony Pulis has made comments ahead of this game stating he is going to put up an absolute fight against the Blues. Of course, Jose Mourinho will not be moved by these comments but it is definitely something to fear.
Crystal Palace vs Chelsea Prediction
This game will surely be close at some points but I feel the Blues will pull away with a 1-0 victory. Chelsea will not lose this game no matter what and will go all out for the victory, but Palace will put up a good fight.
TV Info: NBC Sports Network (USA)
