‘It’s the last thing’ – Crystal Palace boss reacts to Everton FA Cup third round draw

Roy Hodgson admitted an FA Cup replay was the last thing Crystal Palace and Everton wanted after their goalless third round draw at Selhurst Park on Thursday evening.

The Toffees were reduced to 10 men in the final stage of the game when referee Chris Kavanagh branched Dominic Calvert-Lewin with a red card, following the intervention of VAR, for a foul on Nathaniel Clyne.

Both sides had chances, with Everton having more shots on target, but neither side could break the deadlock.

Palace will head to Goodison Park before their game at Arsenal on January 20.

“Not great,” Hodgson said about the replay.

“It’s the last thing either of us wanted in a way. 

“Both teams put the effort in, defended well, were difficult to break down, and unfortunately sometimes [a draw happens] when you get that situation when two teams who wanted to win the game – there was no question of anything less than determination and desire to do so.

“The two teams’ defences did well enough to reduce the number of clear-cut chances to a minimum.

“The game was crying out for that wonder goal or moment of magic, but neither team could produce it.”

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD