These two sides have made good starts to the season and are currently mixing in with the European spots ahead of the likes of Chelsea. Whether either side (especially Palace) can keep this up until the end of the season is another matter. Whoever comes out on top in this match will certainly be given a confidence boost after beating a fellow decent side.
After winning four out of five of their opening matches, Everton suffered a surprising loss away at Bournemouth last weekend. What was especially surprising was that they conceded midway through the first half and were still unable to get back into the game despite the amount of time left – particularly when you consider that Bournemouth are not the greatest defensively.
Having said that, going back home to Goodison Park means they will still be fairly confident of dispatching Crystal Palace.
With the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Yannick Bolasie as well as many others, the attacking talent that Ronald Koeman’s side possess has never been in doubt. There was a big question mark over the Toffees’ defence last season but the Dutchman has come in and made Everton a much more organised team – hence why they have only conceded four goals in the league this season, the second fewest in the Premier League.
Although Everton have an excellent defensive record, they are going up against a Palace side who have plenty of attacking talent of their own, scoring nine goals in their last three matches. Much of this is down to club record signing Christian Benteke. The Belgian had a bit of a nightmare during his season at Everton’s rivals Liverpool but since moving to a side who play to his strenghts and trust him, the 25-year-old has shown why he is one of the best strikers in the league and one of the better target men to have graced the Premier League.
Having made such a good start Benteke will be brimming with confidence and I would look at backing him at a favourable 9/4. Half of the goals Everton have conceded so far this season have been from headers – perfect for Benteke.
Despite the fact that I think Benteke will score, I think Everton should have enough firepower to overcome Palace. Alan Pardew’s side have a couple of injuries at the back including captain and probably player of the season so far, Scott Dann, so Everton should have a fair amount of joy going forward. With this in mind I would go with ‘Everton to Win & Over 2.5 Goals’ at 8/5.
You can also go with ‘Everton to Win & Both Teams to Score’ at 12/5. As previously mentioned both sides have a lot going forward but I expect Everton to come out on top in the end given Palace’s questionable defence.
See more tips here.