CRYSTAL Palace were left frustrated at Selhurst Park after being held to a draw by a resilient Leeds United side that played much of the contest with ten men, reports Denise Dale from Selhurst Park.
The visitors had the best chance of the first half when Dominic Calvert-Lewin stepped up to take a penalty. It looked like a golden opportunity for Leeds to take the lead, but his effort drifted wide of the post, giving Palace a huge let-off and keeping the score level.
Leeds United stars tackle a Red Bull
Leeds’ afternoon became even more complicated not long after when defender Gabriel Gudmundsson picked up a second yellow card. The dismissal reduced the visitors to ten players and handed Palace a clear advantage going into the second half.
With the extra man, Palace began to control the tempo after the restart. They pushed forward more frequently, sending crosses into the box and trying to stretch the Leeds back line. Despite the pressure, Leeds stayed disciplined, throwing bodies in the way of shots and clearing their lines whenever danger appeared.
Leeds offered very little going forward after the break, focusing almost entirely on staying compact and protecting their goal. Their determination and organisation at the back eventually paid off.
By the final whistle, Palace were left wondering how they had not found a breakthrough, while Leeds could celebrate a hard-earned point after a determined defensive display.