Match preview — Turf Moor under the floodlights
Burnley arrive at Turf Moor haunted by a run of poor results and a leaky defence that has cost them dearly so far this Premier League season. The Clarets sit 19th after 13 games with just three wins and one draw; their recent string of results reads like a warning sign — heavy defeats to Brentford and Chelsea came with only a solitary bright moment in late October against Wolves. Turf Moor’s modest goals return and a worrying goals-conceded tally underline the home side’s fragility: Burnley have mustered 15 goals and shipped 27 across the campaign, and their form sequence shows more red than green. The referee for this clash, Thomas Kirk, will take charge as the home crowd try to spur the team on in a stadium that holds just over 22,500 passionate supporters.
Crystal Palace travel up the M65 with confidence not arrogance. Palace are ninth in the table and have enjoyed a purple patch in recent weeks — notable away scalps and an ability to grind results have pushed them toward the top half. Their recent win over Wolverhampton and a narrow defeat at Manchester United in the most recent outing point to a group that can score and, importantly, keep games tight; Palace’s defensive numbers are respectable with only 11 goals conceded so far and six clean sheets, suggesting a balanced unit that can frustrate opponents. Jean-Philippe Mateta’s performance in the loss to Manchester United was singled out as the team’s best individual display in the last round, a reminder that Palace possess match-winners capable of turning tight games in their favour.
Tactical and statistical angles to watch
Both sides show contrasting shot profiles and attacking intent: Burnley’s attack numbers are modest and their conversion opportunities have been limited, while Crystal Palace boast far higher totals in shots and shots on target — an index of control in the final third. Head-to-head history tilts toward Palace too, with the last meeting in the Premier League ending 3-0 in favour of Palace. Burnley’s home record and high goals conceded at Turf Moor create a scenario where Palace look the steadier proposition on the road. Betting markets reflect that balance; the away win is priced as the bookmakers’ favourite, signalling market confidence in a Palace victory.
For readers who want to sharpen their approach to market selection, pairing this preview with deeper study can help — consider exploring Soccer betting tips and the choice of markets for broader strategy and timing ideas, and for goal-specific timing and nuance see The right time to place bets on goal markets.
Betting suggestion: Back Crystal Palace to win (Away) in the 1X2 market. The bookmakers price Palace at 1.76 with a market-implied probability favouring the visitors; their superior defensive record, recent form, head-to-head advantage and greater shot volume make the away win the most logical single-market play for this fixture.