London derby between two pointless sides: Fulham vs Crystal Palace prediction
The third-round Premier League match between Fulham and Crystal Palace will take place on 5 September at Craven Cottage. Both teams have lost their opening two matches and will be fighting for their first points of the new Premier League season.
Fulham: two defeats and an urgent need to improve
Alvaro Arbeloa's side began the league campaign with a 3-2 defeat to Chelsea before losing 1-0 to Sunderland. Fulham's only victory of the season so far came in the League Cup, where they comfortably beat Wimbledon 3-0.
The fixture list adds further pressure, with Liverpool and Manchester United awaiting the London side after this game. That makes the home match against Palace particularly important for the hosts as they look to collect their first points.
Crystal Palace: difficult start and a fragile defence
Pierre Sage's side also remain pointless after two rounds. Palace first lost 2-0 to Everton before suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Manchester City.
However, the visitors do have a strong argument in the form of their head-to-head record. Crystal Palace have not lost at Craven Cottage since January 2005 and have won their last three away matches against Fulham in all competitions.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Both teams have lost their opening two Premier League matches.
- Fulham have won only one of their last eight matches against Crystal Palace.
- Palace have won their last three away meetings with Fulham in all competitions.
Home advantage could outweigh the head-to-head history: Fulham vs Crystal Palace prediction
Both teams are still far from their best, but Fulham look slightly more stable in attack and should make greater use of their home advantage. At the same time, the head-to-head record suggests a tight and tense contest.
Crystal Palace are capable of capitalising on their opponents' mistakes, but attacking absences and a poor start to the season reduce their chances. In these circumstances, the hosts hold a slight edge.
