Crystal Palace 0 Fulham 0 – Whites dominant but can’t find a way past Guaita

Crystal Palace held on for a goalless draw against a dominant Fulham at Selhurst Park.

This match was evidence of both sides’ inefficiency in front of goal. Fulham, particularly defender Joachim Andersen, squandered several chances to take an important three points back to west London.

Luka Milivojevic had a rare opportunity for the Eagles inside five minutes. The ball broke loose  on the edge of the penalty area but the midfielder’s effort was blocked.

Andersen then had the first of his chances midway through the first half – heading wide from a corner.

The Fulham centre-back was so influential in this game that he was even registering attempts at the wrong end. He inadvertently diverted Andros Townsend’s cross towards goal but Alphonso Areola kept the ball out. That was as much as the French international goalkeeper had to do all afternoon.

The right-hand side of Scott Parker’s side caused plenty of issues for Palace. Kenny Tete – a former Eagles transfer target – won a free-kick from which Andersen headed inches over.

Fulham were dominant in the second half and most of the latter 45 minutes were played out in Palace’s half.

Tosin Adarabioyo had the game’s first effort on target – heading confortably into Vicente Guaita’s hands on 55 minutes. Josh Maja curled just wide.

Guaita made a fine reaction save to deny Maja soon after. The striker’s header from close range seemed destined for the net but the Spaniard sprawled to his left to keep it out. He then denied Andersen from the following corner.

Fulham’s inability to score means the remain in 18th and three points behind Newcastle United – who drew with Wolves last night. Palace are 13th on 33 points.