Back of the Nest

Join us for our weekly deep dive as we break down the latest action and analyze every key performance on the pitch. We wrap up each episode by putting our experts to the test, delivering our definitive 1-10 player ratings for every standout contributor.Patrick and Xavier are your team today.

Despite the lack of goals, both sides had golden chances to snatch the win. Villa dominated possession, but Palace's organized defense, led by a standout performance from Jaydee Canvot, kept the visitors at bay.

While Palace have struggled recently, they have enjoyed the better of this fixture in recent years, including a 3-0 win in their last meeting. However, with Jefferson Lerma (concussion) and Nathaniel Clyne (abductor) confirmed out, Glasner faces a defensive shuffle.

Patrick and Xavier review the player ratings for the match again Newcastle.

A freezing, snowy afternoon at St James' Park ended in a familiar sense of "what if" as Palace fell 2-0 to Newcastle. Given the injury crisis-with Will Hughes becoming the latest casualty early on-the lads showed incredible grit to keep it goalless for 70 minutes. We actually had the best chance of the first half when Yeremy Pino teed up Hughes, only for him to fire agonisingly wide

We head to St James' Park tomorrow in what Oliver Glasner has honestly described as "survival mode." The hard-fought point against Fulham was a step in the right direction, but the cost was high-Will Hughes limped off to join a staggering injury list that already features Nketiah, Richards, and Munoz, while Ismaila Sarr is away at AFCON.

A bittersweet start to 2026 as Palace were held to a 1-1 draw by Fulham at Selhurst Park. After the tactical disaster at Leeds, we looked much more like ourselves- disciplined, aggressive, and direct. When Jean-Philippe Mateta powered home a trademark header from Nathaniel Clyne's cross just before the break, it felt like the perfect New Year's tonic to steady the ship.

We kick off 2026 at Selhurst Park with a massive New Year's Day London derby, and let's be honest: we need a result. After a gruelling festive period that saw us fall short against Spurs and Arsenal, the squad is stretched to the limit. Eddie Nketiah and Chris Richards have joined the already crowded injury list, leaving Oliver Glasner with some major selection headaches.

Dee and Lou rate the players from the game against Spurs.