Crystal Palace earned a point in their battle for Premier League survival on Sunday as they drew 1-1 with Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium.
Swansea took the lead in the 24th minute when Jonathan de Guzman showed plenty of composure to fire past Julian Speroni.
However, Palace got level in the final 10 minutes as Glenn Murray scored from the penalty spot after Chico Flores was sent off for bringing down the striker.
Here, Sports Mole takes a closer look at the action between the two teams in South Wales.
Match statistics
Swansea
Shots: 7
On target: 5
Possession: 69%
Corners: 1
Fouls: 8
Palace
Shots: 7
On target: 4
Possession: 31%
Corners: 4
Fouls: 11
Was the result fair?
This was a classic game of two halves in which a point apiece seemed the most reasonable outcome. Swansea were in control during the first half, but Palace fought back after the break to earn a deserved share of the spoils.
Swansea's performance
Garry Monk's side dominated the opening 45 minutes with some incisive passing and plenty of energy across all areas of the pitch. However, they failed to convert their huge share of possession into more than one goal. Had they done that then it could well have meant three points for the South-Wales club. Instead, their wastefulness in the final third allowed Palace a way back into the match - something which they capitalised on after the break as the hosts faded. This will seem like two points lost rather than a point gained for the Swans.
Palace's performance
The visitors were poor during the first half as they found it difficult to get near Swansea. Palace struggled to get on the ball and spent most of the opening 45 minutes inside their own half. That all changed in the second half though as the introduction of Glenn Murray saw them show a bit more ambition up front. Their football was not the prettiest (as you might expect) but it was effective in securing them what could be an important point come the end of the season.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Glenn Murray: The Palace striker changed the complexion of the game when he came on at half time as his enthusiasm allowed the visitors to play a more direct style. He showed good stamina to keep running the channels in attack and was ultimately rewarded by winning the penalty which he converted to seal the away side a point.
Biggest gaffe
Jerome Thomas tried to earn Palace a second penalty deep in stoppage time when he fell to the ground all too easily. Referee Mike Dean did the right thing and booked the winger for his silly dive.
Referee performance
Mike Dean's biggest decision was the Palace penalty, and it seemed like he got that one right. Overall, the official gave a firm and competent display.
What next?
Swansea: The Swans return to action on March 15 when they host West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.
Palace: The Eagles' Premier League campaign continues on Saturday at home to Southampton.
Jack Prescott
