The Bees had never previously avoided defeat in their first three games of a Premier League season, but Palace’s visit presented a great opportunity to correct that record given they’d lost just one of their last seven London derbies on home soil. It was far from a fluent start for the hosts, with chances at a premium at both ends of the field, but a piece of individual brilliance from Kevin Schade was all they needed to take the lead.
The German international opened his Brentford account in some style, cutting in from the left, squaring up Joel Ward, twisting his opponent inside-out before curling home into the far corner beyond a helpless Sam Johnstone.
Both of Palace’s first two games of the season had ended 1-0, so falling behind wasn’t a good omen for Roy Hodgson’s men. The Eagles’ lack of firepower was evident as they tried to plot a route back into the contest, but quality was taken out of the game by the conditions in London, as torrential rain fell and subsequently affected the playing surface before the interval.
Thomas Frank’s men had been the better side before the break, but were met by a much-improved Palace in the second period as they wrestled back control of the contest. However, try as he might, Eberechi Eze's best efforts were proving insufficient as Bees goalkeeper Mark Flekken remained relatively untroubled.
That was until the 76th minute, at least, when Joachim Andersen equalised in bizarre circumstances. The Dane played a give-and-go with Jordan Ayew and, at full stretch, slide tackled the ball through Flekken’s legs to stun the home supporters.
A limp second half display never really showed any signs of improving for Brentford, who may feel fortunate to come away with a point which does at least see them retain their unbeaten status this term. A decent showing from Palace continues an improvement on the road at this early stage of the season, avoiding defeat in both of their league away matches so far.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Joachim Andersen (Crystal Palace)