Premier League: Four Teams That Exceeded Expectations

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 01: Harvey Barnes of Leicester City celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Chelsea FC at The King Power Stadium on February 01, 2020 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) /

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4. Crystal Palace.

The Eagles are in 11th position in the Premier League, but their advanced statistics suggest they have been punching above their weight all season.

They started early in the season by beating Manchester United at Old Trafford for the first time in 30 years by a 2-1 scoreline. Their xG for the match was 0.68 compared to United’s 2.24.

Later in the season, they drew against Manchester City, scoring two goals from an xG of 0.59. Their strength has stopped teams from converting scoring opportunities.

They are second in the Premier League in this category. Their xGA is 43.84 while conceding 32 goals for an opposition goal conversion rate of +11.84.

The Eagles defensive line allowed them to get results when it was least expected. Their xPTS was 17th in the Premier League at 29.95, however, they earned 39 points. Their difference between actual and expected points of 9.05 is third in the league.

Crystal Palace’s major shortcoming have been converting their goal-scoring opportunities. Their offensive conversion rate was a pedestrian +1.76. Making matters worse, the Eagles also rank 19th in the Top Flight in xG.

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