Stand-in boss Paddy McCarthy delivers verdict on Crystal Palace’s late 3-1 defeat at Aston Villa

Crystal Palace stand-in boss Paddy McCarthy was left disappointed after his side conceded three late goals in their 3-1 defeat at Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon.

The Eagles took the lead when substitute Jean-Philippe Mateta burst down the right-hand side and crossed low for Odsonne Edouard to steer his fourth Premier League goal of the season past Emi Martinez.

Villa pulled one back when Lucas Digne’s cross found Jhon Duran inside the penalty area, and the substitute took one touch before firing a half-volley beyond Sam Johnstone.

The hosts took the lead in added time when Chris Richards was adjudged to have brought Ollie Watkins down inside the area. 

After a lengthy VAR review, referee Darren England pointed to the spot again and Douglas Luiz converted past Johnstone.

Leon Bailey wrapped up all three points in the 101st minute when Moussa Diaby broke into the Palace half and drilled a cross along the face of goal for the Jamaican to score.

Assistant manager McCarthy took charge of the team – with Ray Lewington assisting the former Palace defender – after Roy Hodgson fell unwell before the game.

“There were lots of good bits in the first half performance as well,” said McCarthy.

“We didn’t create as much as we did in the second half, but we nullified Aston Villa’s attacking threat for the majority of the first half. 

“We frustrated them and we looked lively going the other way. We adjusted a few bits at half time and the players went out and executed the game plan really well.

“To concede a goal in the 87th minute and then concede a second goal in controversial circumstances later on is disappointing.

“But we can’t be too down because there were lots of positives to take from the performance.”