Crystal Palace v Watford – Match Preview and Tips

Crystal Palace v Watford – Sat 12th Jan, 15:00, Selhurst Park

Referee: Paul Tierney

For me, this is one of the toughest Premier League games to call this Saturday. Palace have seen a great improvement in their recent matches with three wins, one draw and one loss in their last five Premier League matches.

The one loss was just a 1-0 against Chelsea, not too much to worry about there. But, their wins have been impressive, with a 3-2 win at the Etihad against Man City. A 1-0 win against Leicester (at home) and a 2-0 away win against Wolves.

Palace are still mostly struggling in front of goal, but their defence is very tough to break down. They have kept three clean sheets in their last five home matches while conceded just two goals. But, they have also only scored three goals in this time while failing to score at home a massive seven times this season!

Meanwhile, Watford have mostly recovered from their slump after their excellent start to the season. They have won two, drawn two and lost just one of their last five Premier League matches while scoring in all of those games.

However, Watford’s defence has been a slight issue, as they continue to concede a fair few goals while only keeping one clean sheet in their last eleven Premier League matches. Watford have been tough to beat on the road this season, with a tighter defence leading to three wins, four draws and just three losses.

They have drawn three of their last five away matches, won one and lost one while seeing both teams score in three of those five matches. Watford have seen a few goals in their recent games, but I can see this match being a cagey, low scoring affair.

Betting Tips

Firstly, Palace are 5/4 to win, the draw is 27/11 and a Watford win is 5/2.

I am surprised by Watford’s odds, to be honest, considering Palace’s lack of real goal threat, Watford could get a goal or two and go onto win this match. But, I still stick by my initial thought of a tight, low scoring match. For that reason, I see value in the draw at 27/11 with Unibet.

On that note, I can see a 1-1 scoreline landing, or one team nicking it 1-0. Of course, I am still hoping for the 1-1 draw and that is best priced at 11/2 with bet365.

Steven Hubbard