Adama Traoré had little joy zooming down the right flank and although Palace were pushed back for long spells there were few moments when their outstanding back three of Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix and Marc Guéhi were pulled out of position.
Not only are Oliver Glasner’s side unbeaten on their travels in the Premier League since October, they are also on a run of five consecutive 2-0 away wins in all competitions after seeing off Fulham with an own-goal from Joachim Andersen and a fine strike from Daniel Muñoz.
Mateta picked up possession in his own half, dribbled beyond weak challenges from the Fulham substitutes, Andreas Pereira and Tom Cairney, and found Muñoz in space on the right.
Another missed opportunity for Fulham to cement themselves as contenders for European qualification needs to be placed in perspective given that this disappointment came against opponents who have mastered the art of playing away from home.
Lacroix darted to the near post in an attempt to meet Hughes’ corner and the ball went in off the unwitting Andersen, who was unable to adjust after being given a little shove by Ismaïla Sarr.
