Henderson’s Error Sinks Winless Palace As Nottingham Forest Triumph.
Dean Henderson’s costly mistake added to Crystal Palace’s woes as Chris Wood’s second-half strike secured a 1-0 victory for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. Henderson, playing under the gaze of interim England manager Lee Carsley, allowed Wood’s effort to slip under his arm, condemning Palace to another frustrating afternoon.
Despite coming close through Eberechi Eze and Eddie Nketiah, who both struck the woodwork, Palace were unable to break their winless streak. Ryan Yates also hit the post for the hosts, but it was Wood’s goal that proved decisive.
The Eagles ended last season in spectacular form, taking 19 points from their final 21, with impressive wins over Liverpool, Manchester United, and Aston Villa. Yet, since their 5-0 thrashing of Villa on the final day of last season, they have gone 156 days without a victory.
In that time, Palace have sold two of their best players, Michael Olise and Joachim Andersen, and have struggled to find form. They have scored only five goals, the fewest in the league, and remain winless, enduring their worst start to a Premier League season since 1992-93, which has seen them drop into the bottom three.
The statistics are damning. Palace are taking fewer shots on goal, creating fewer big chances, and having fewer touches in the opposition’s penalty area compared to last season. Defensively, they are facing more shots, making more errors, and winning fewer duels.
At the final whistle, attention turned to Palace manager Oliver Glasner. The Austrian, who took charge in February and led a strong finish to last season, is now overseeing the club’s worst Premier League start in 32 years. Despite the mounting pressure, Glasner remained composed, telling BBC Sport, “This is a time for hugging the players, not for kicking them.”
Glasner acknowledged the difficulties the team is facing but urged unity: “It’s tough at the moment, to be honest. We have had better times together, but we have to support each other, lift our heads, and get ready for the next game.”
He dismissed concerns about tactical issues, instead attributing Palace’s struggles to a lack of confidence. “Very often we are in the final third and making the wrong decisions. This is due to a lack of confidence. We are humans.”
As Palace continue their search for a first win, Glasner and his players will need to find solutions quickly to turn their season around.
