Luton’s Woodrow nets equalizer in last-minute against Palace

Luton Town secured a draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park with a stoppage-time goal from Cauley Woodrow.

The Eagles got off to a quick start, with Jean-Philippe Mateta putting his team ahead after just 11 minutes.

A back pass from Alfie Doughty to goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski resulted in a mix-up between Gabriel Osho and Kaminski, allowing Daniel Munoz to capitalize before passing to Mateta, who cleverly flicked the ball into the corner of the net.

Despite having 21 shots during the game, the home side squandered numerous opportunities to secure all three points. Mateta, Daniel Munoz, Jordan Ayew, and Ebere Eze all came close before Odsonne Edouard struck the crossbar late in the match.

Palace paid the price for their missed chances when substitute Woodrow headed in a cross from Andros Townsend in the 96th minute, sparking jubilant celebrations among the away fans and earning what could be a crucial point for Luton in their battle against relegation.

Same old problem for Palace

Crystal Palace has struggled with conceding late goals throughout the season, having allowed 21 goals in the last 15 minutes of their Premier League matches – the highest among all teams.

When the stadium announcer revealed six minutes of added time, the home supporters expressed frustration with a collective groan.

Manager Oliver Glasner must be disappointed that his team failed to secure all three points, especially considering the game’s statistics favoring a Palace victory.

The expected goal (XG) statistic indicated Palace with 2.37, whereas Luton’s equalizer came from just their second shot on target in the match.

Palace players have acknowledged the challenges of adapting to Glasner’s new playing style, which demands high intensity.

To address this, Glasner plans to take his Palace squad to Marbella for a training camp next week, focusing on improving the players’ fitness.

With 21 days until their next Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest, Palace will have time to regroup and prepare for their upcoming challenge.

Crucial point for Luton

Woodrow’s late goal has kept Luton within striking distance of the teams above them, with only a three-point gap from safety.

Luton has developed a knack for scoring late goals, tallying 15 goals in the last 15 minutes of Premier League matches this season, second only to league leaders Liverpool, who have scored 24.

Rob Edwards will be pleased with his team’s ability to salvage something from a match in which they registered their first shot on target after 80 minutes.

Although Carlton Morris had an effort saved by Sam Johnstone in the Palace goal, the visitors struggled to assert themselves in the match, while the home side squandered several significant opportunities.

Former Palace player Townsend’s cross was ultimately headed in by Woodrow, securing what could prove to be a crucial point for Luton as they strive to avoid relegation.