Crystal Palace sealed a 3-2 win on penalties over the reigning Premier League champions, Liverpool, to win the Community Shield on Sunday. This was the first time the London-based side had competed in the Community Shield, following its heroics in the FA Cup, where it beat Manchester City back in May.
How did the game unfold?
Liverpool took an early lead as their Bundesliga summer signings, Florian Wirtz and Ekitike, combined before the latter found the back of the net in the 4th minute. The lead, however, did not last long, as Liverpool captain Van Dijk brought down Sarr, earning Crystal Palace a penalty.
Mateta, who had earlier missed a penalty in the FA Cup semi-final, calmly slotted home a goal past Alisson. New summer signing Jermie Frimpong helped Liverpool take the lead once again. What seemed to be a cross from Frimpong ended up in the back of the net after it looped over Henderson’s head.
Palace grew in confidence as an Eze-led attack regularly tested Alisson and Liverpool’s defence. A lapse of judgment from Milos Kerkez allowed Sarr to make an excellent run past his marker, and his finish went in off the post.
Crystal Palace triumph over Liverpool on penalties
The shootout began with Mohamed Salah skying his penalty over the bar. Dean Henderson put on a heroic performance yet again, making saves against Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott. The shootout went on until the final penalty when substitute Devenny kept his cool and launched a beautiful header to secure Crystal Palace’s first-ever Community Shield.
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What does this defeat mean for Liverpool?
The reigning Premier League champions will undoubtedly be disappointed following this defeat. Arne Slot will be unhappy as Crystal Palace were presented with several opportunities to test Alisson in goal. The defensive frailties of this new Liverpool defense were readily apparent to all.
However, Liverpool will not take the defeat too heavily, as only eight teams that have won the Community Shield in the Premier League era have gone on to win the title.
Summary
Liverpool may have spent £300 million on new players to defend their Premier League title, but this doesn’t mean they are invincible. The new defence, consisting of Frimpong and Kerkez, will require some getting used to. On the other hand, Oliver Glasner’s well-drilled side shows plenty of promise to the Crystal Palace supporters.
Written by – Thillai Ritvik
