Dean Henderson’s costly mistake against his former club proved detrimental for Crystal Palace, as Chris Wood’s second-half strike secured a 1-0 victory for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Monday.
The England goalkeeper failed to hold Wood’s low shot from outside the box, allowing it to slip through his grasp, leaving Palace still searching for their first league win of the season and remaining in the bottom three.
MISSED OPPORTUNITIES
Palace had their chances, with Eddie Nketiah and Eberechi Eze both hitting the woodwork. However, the Eagles now have the lowest goal tally in the league, with just five goals from their first eight matches.
In stark contrast, Nottingham Forest is enjoying a remarkable start to the campaign, climbing into the top half of the table, ahead of Manchester United and Newcastle.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
Nuno Espirito Santo watched the match from the stands as he began a three-match touchline ban, while Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis started a five-game stadium suspension following his behavior in a previous match. Key players Morgan Gibbs-White and James Ward-Prowse were also suspended, yet Forest’s strong performance was aided by Wood’s current form.
Wood, who has been in fine scoring touch since Nuno took charge, noted, “I try to keep them inside the box because it’s a lot easier… It just trickled under Dean’s hand. But it is one of those you have to take the shot, and thankfully it went in.”
GOALKEEPER COMPARISON
While Henderson’s error was costly, Forest’s Matz Sels produced standout saves, including a superb stop from Eze’s powerful shot that hit the bar, and another from Jeffrey Schlupp’s attempt.
Palace’s struggles continue, having earned only three points from their opening eight games, yet they remain just one point from safety, with Ipswich, Southampton, and Wolves also without a win.
Captain Marc Guehi acknowledged the challenges, stating, “We’re creating chances, but any slight mistake gets punished at the moment.”