Crystal Palace and Aston Villa played out a drab 0-0 draw in a game that lacked any real quality or clear-cut chances. Despite Aston Villa dominating possession with 59% of the ball, they managed just 3 shots on target compared to Crystal Palace's 5.

Aston Villa's tactical approach was their undoing, as they struggled to break down Palace's low block. Villa had 88% pass accuracy, but the majority of their 537 total passes were sideways or backwards, failing to penetrate the home side's defensive shape. Manager Steven Gerrard will be disappointed that his team's 1.74 expected goals wasn't translated into more meaningful opportunities.

In contrast, Crystal Palace sat deep and looked to hit Villa on the counter. Their 369 total passes at 80% accuracy reflects a more direct approach, with 9 of their 11 shots coming from inside the box. However, the lack of clinical finishing from Wilfried Zaha and Brennan Johnson prevented Palace from taking all 3 points.

The tactical failure for Palace was their inability to control the tempo of the game and dictate proceedings. With just 41% possession, they allowed Villa to dominate the ball but failed to make them pay on the break. Manager Patrick Vieira will be disappointed his team couldn't capitalize on Villa's profligacy in front of goal.