SHEFFIELD, England (Reuters) – A second-half strike from Odsonne Edouard was enough to earn Crystal Palace a 1-0 win at Sheffield United, giving the hosts an unhappy return to the Premier League after a two-year absence.
United started brightly and almost took the lead in the ninth minute through William Osula’s long-range effort, but Palace grew into the game and broke the deadlock in the 49th minute when Edouard turned Jordan Ayew’s cross into the net.
Edouard and Joachim Andersen both had efforts saved by Wes Foderingham in the second half as Palace had the better chances, but despite enjoying the bulk of the possession, the visitors were unable to extend their lead.
Relegated after the 2020-21 campaign, Sheffield rebounded with a second-placed finish in the Championship last season, but after losing key players in the close season the Blades always seemed set to struggle, as they did at Bramall Lane on their return.
(Reporting by Aadi Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
