The U.S. international began the momentum that led to Palace's opening goal in a 4-1 victory

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• Palace defeats Villa 4-1 in Prem
• USMNT's Chris Richards played big role in victory
• Eleventh-straight start across all competitions for defender

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  U.S. international Chris Richards helped lead Crystal Palace to victory against Aston Villa in English Premier League action on Tuesday, as the won 4-1.

  A brace from Ismaila Sarr, a Jean Philippe-Mateta goal, and a stoppage-time dagger from Eddie Nketiah saw Palace secure all three points, while Richards himself played a big role in their opening goal.

  Firing an initial header on-frame towards Villa's Emiliano Martinez, Richards' attempt was parried away 29 minutes into the game, only for it to fall into the path of Sarr for the opening goal of the match.

  With the victory, Palace moved ahead of Tottenham Hotspur into 12th place in the league standings, now just eight points out of a top-six spot in the standings and potential European competition next season.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Palace have been in fine form of late, with Tuesday being their second-straight victory, and their seventh across all competitions since the start of the calendar year, with 10 total games played.

  Richards, meanwhile, has been a consistent member of the starting XI, with Tuesday marking his 11th-straight start dating back to December.

  Against Villa, he played a calm and composed contest, completing 71 percent of his passes, while defensively, he completed seven clearances and won 100 percent of his ground duels.

  Fello U.S. international Matt Turner was an unused substitute as their backup goalkeeper on the day.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Palace are unbeaten against Villa across all competitions in the 2024-25 season. The defeated them 2-1 in the EFL Cup in October, drew them 2-2 in EPL action in November, and followed it up with three points on Tuesday.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR PALACE?

  Palace return to the FA Cup on Saturday, where they will take on EFL side Millwall in Round 5 of the competition. They return to the Premier League on Saturday, March 8 against Ipswich.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News