5 tackles, 8 clearances, 100% aerial duels: Crystal Palace’s Ace delivers masterclass performance v Aston Villa
Crystal Palace earned a hard-fought point in a thrilling 2-2 draw with Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday.
After a disappointing 2-0 loss to Fulham at Selhurst Park earlier this month, the Eagles bounced back with an impressive performance, forcing Villa to settle for a share of the spoils.
Ismaila Sarr put Palace ahead in the opening four minutes, but Ollie Watkins quickly equalized for Villa, rounding the goalkeeper to slot the ball into an empty net.
Palace regained the lead just before halftime when Justin Devenny converted Sarr’s cross, but Villa’s Ross Barkley salvaged a point for the hosts with a goal in the 77th minute.
While Palace fans may have hoped for all three points, they would have been encouraged by the standout performances of their key players.
Among them, Maxence Lacroix was particularly impressive. The 24-year-old central defender put in a solid performance, making several crucial interventions to help secure the draw.
Lacroix recorded an outstanding eight clearances, five tackles, and three interceptions. He also won every aerial duel he contested and more than 80% of his ground duels.
With 43 touches and 16 successful passes from 23 attempts, Lacroix played a vital role in Palace’s defensive stability throughout the match.
Since joining from Germany last summer in a deal worth up to £18 million, Lacroix has made an immediate impact, starting nine Premier League matches and registering an assist.
On average, the Frenchman has been delivering 4.6 clearances, 2.0 tackles, 1.9 interceptions, and 4.7 ball recoveries per game in the Premier League.
Lacroix will look to maintain his strong form when Palace host Newcastle United next weekend.
