Guessand strikes late as Palace grab crucial victory over 10-man Wolves

Guardian Sport

by Ed Aarons at Selhurst Park

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Crystal Palace secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against 10-man Wolves in a match that saw both frustration and relief for the home side. Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, Palace struggled to break down a resilient Wolves defense, which was reduced to ten men after Ladislav Krejci received his second yellow card early in the first half for an unnecessary kick. However, in the final moments of normal time, Evann Guessand’s decisive goal sent the Crystal Palace supporters into euphoria, ending a six-game winless streak and providing a much-needed boost for manager Oliver Glasner. The match began with a strong statement from Palace fans, who unfurled a banner criticizing the club’s board, questioning their decision-making, and calling for Glasner’s departure. While the initial reaction from the players seemed indifferent, the goal by Guessand in the 89th minute turned the tide, transforming the mood at Selhurst Park. The win was not only a testament to Palace’s perseverance but also a response to the criticism they had faced earlier in the game. This victory is significant for Crystal Palace as it moves them closer to escaping the relegation zone and boosts their confidence ahead of future fixtures. It also provides Glasner with some respite, as questions about his management style and tactics had been intensifying due to the team’s inconsistent performance. The win against Wolves highlighted Palace’s ability to remain determined despite setbacks and showcased the importance of maintaining focus until the final whistle. For Wolves, the loss extends their struggles at the bottom of the table, with their inability to secure a first league victory since November deepening concerns about their form and defensive vulnerabilities. The red card for Krejci early in the game left them heavily outnumbered, and despite their efforts, they were unable to prevent Palace from sealing the win in the dying moments. The match underscores the unpredictable nature of football, where persistence and a moment of clinical precision can turn a seemingly fruitless performance into a

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/22/2026