Pre-match warnings backed up by reality - Graham Smyth's Palace Verdict

Leeds United drew 0-0 with Crystal Palace at Elland Road, a much quieter follow-up to their midweek thrashing of Newcastle United. Manager Daniel Farke and player James Justin had warned pre-match that Palace's modest points tally didn't reflect their quality, a caution borne out by an Eagles side that defended resolutely. Leeds created the better chances, mostly down the left through Gudmundsson and Okafor, with Ampadu's long throws, Tanaka and Bogle all threatening but unable to find a breakthrough against keeper Walter Benitez. The point keeps Leeds fifth in the Premier League, unbeaten, with the division's best defensive record, three points behind second-placed Arsenal ahead of their meeting on 10th October.