Well, well, well...
Twelve months ago, who put their money on Crystal Palace reaching the Semi Final of a cup? Anyone? No? Didn't think so.
After a long old season last year in which just one away win was notched up, Palace came back this season with true Eagle fighting spirit and he rewards speak for themselves. A 3-1 AWAY victory over arch-rivals Br*ghton after being 1-0 down for almost 80 minutes. A 2-0 win at home over the league leaders in the League Cup, progressing to the quarter finals to draw Manchester United at Old Trafford. Winning that fixture in extra time after scoring first with an unstoppable strike from the goal machine that is, Darren Ambrose. Then after booking our place in the Semis, The Eagles beat rivals Millwall at The Den. So the 2011 portion of the season was tasty to the end but now, with no wins in 2012 as yet we are due one against Cardiff City in tonight's Carling Cup Semi Finals' first leg. You could only dream of reaching this point in 2010/11 but now it seems as if it was written. Palace fought off Crawley Town, Wigan Athletic, Middlesbrough, Southampton and even Man United to book their place in the Semis and face the best team for their cup run to continue. With Cardiff being the only Championship side left in the cup besides Palace, the draw guarantees a Championship finalist to face off against either Man City or Liverpool.
Cardiff's Cup Run:
Oxford United - A - 1-3 (AET)
Huddersfield - H - 5-3 (AET)
Leicester City - H - 2-2 (AET 7-6 on pens)
Burnley - H - 1-0
Blackburn Rovers - H - 2-0
Despite scraping through the early stages, Cardiff's last result in the cup (like Palace's) was against Premier League opposition and they controlled themselves well and got the result. Blackburn may be struggling but are in the top flight for good reason and against Championship opposition you would expect them to win. However, Cardiff just missed out on a promotion last season and are shooting for the same target this year so to win against Blackburn was not an impossible task. Kenny Miller's first half goal gave the Bluebirds the lead at half time and just after the break Anthony Gerrard sealed the deal for Cardiff as they progressed to the semi finals for only the second time in the club's history.
Team News
Crystal Palace midfielders Jonathan Williams and Alex Marrow will miss out whilst Freedman will hope the virus that hit the club has subsided in key players; McCarthy, Speroni & Clyne. He will also hope Gardner is fit after suffering a thigh strain. Young players may see a bench spot after a valiant effort against Derby on Saturday in the FA Cup.
Cardiff City manager Malky Mackay will be boosted by the return of Kevin Naughton for tonight's game after his calf strain forced him out of the last three matches. Craig Conway may get a run out after a good show against WBA at the weekend.
In all honesty, I hope beyond belief that we win tonight, there is no greater stage in English football than Wembley and if I can go there and watch Crystal Palace then I'm a happy man. However, Cardiff have had a great season so far and can NOT be underestimated. Real fans will know that this one is swinging in Cardiff's favour but that doesn't make them less of a fan for saying "I know we might lose". We've come this far and I'm proud to be an Eagle so whatever the scoreline is tonight and in two weeks time for the second leg. I'll be happy to make it this far.
COME ON YOU PALACE!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday 10 January 2012
Friday 6 January 2012
Derby County Preview: Saturday 7th January 2012 (FA Cup 3rd Round)
Monday's Action
The first game of 2012 for The Eagles saw them take on moneybags Leicester City at Selhurst Park and it looked like it was going to be a promising year for The Eagles as they fought for the full 90 minutes only to be defeated 2-1 down to an unfortunate kick from goalkeeper Lewis Price whose clearance hit a Palace defender and fell to ex-Eagle Neil Danns who took advantage of the mistake.
A Neil Danns free kick created Leicester's second, the ball was crossed into the box, striker David Nugent nodding it on with defender Bamba on hand to tap it home.
Palace hit back just before half time with a wonderfully worked goal, which ended with Jonathan Parr's right footed shot curling past Schmeichel and into the top corner.
Team News
Crystal Palace have been hit with a virus this week that kept Speroni, McCarthy & Gardner out of the Leicester defeat. Kadell Daniel, Keiron Cadogan and a number of academy players have made the trip to Derby. Williams, Hills, Marrow & Wright are still out with various injuries. Chris Martin is ineligible as part of his loan contract. New loan signings Mustapha Dumbaya and John Egan are both eligible for this clash.
Derby Jeff Hendrick, Saul Deeney & Mark O'Brien all miss out for the Rams. O'Brien will be out for the remainder of the season after picking up a knee injury in training.
Preview
The Eagles travel to Derby County for their first FA Cup fixture of the campaign. The squad will be an accumulation of reserve and academy players as several key players have been hit with a virus as well as there being a semi-final against Cardiff on Tuesday.
With no previous meetings in the FA Cup this is anyone's match, especially with the last two meetings being tied. However the meeting before hand saw Derby storm to a 5-0 victory at Pride Park in which ex-Eagle Shefki Kuqi scored the fifth and final goal.
The sides have met a grand total of 63 times, in which Derby boast a remarkable 28 wins, with Palace being 10 wins behind them. The sides have not met in a cup match since 1970 in the League Cup which (ironically) was also a draw.
My CPFC line-up
I will not be doing a line-up for this one, purely because there are a lot of different players travelling to Derby and I couldn't begin to tell you where I would put them.
Best of luck to the debutants and all the lads!
Derby's last six:
W-W-W-L-W-D
The draw was against Palace.
Last time out
Crystal Palace 1-1 Derby County
Martin (15') McCarthy (og) (75')
Match Facts:
- The sides have met 63 times with Derby boasting 28 wins to Palace's 18.
- The last meeting saw two Palace players score but at different ends of the pitch.
- The sides have never met in an FA Cup game before.
- Derby have scored an average of 1.45 goals at home this season, conceding 1.07.
- Palace have scored an average of 1 goal away from home, conceding 1.23.
- Palace are most deadly in front of goal in the final 15 minutes of a game; Derby have conceded six goals in this time period (scoring none).
- Derby are most deadly in front of goal in the middles 15 minutes of the second half (61-75) scoring 11 goals. Palace have conceded 8 goals in this time frame.
Prediction:
Derby 2-2 Palace
The first game of 2012 for The Eagles saw them take on moneybags Leicester City at Selhurst Park and it looked like it was going to be a promising year for The Eagles as they fought for the full 90 minutes only to be defeated 2-1 down to an unfortunate kick from goalkeeper Lewis Price whose clearance hit a Palace defender and fell to ex-Eagle Neil Danns who took advantage of the mistake.
A Neil Danns free kick created Leicester's second, the ball was crossed into the box, striker David Nugent nodding it on with defender Bamba on hand to tap it home.
Palace hit back just before half time with a wonderfully worked goal, which ended with Jonathan Parr's right footed shot curling past Schmeichel and into the top corner.
Team News
Crystal Palace have been hit with a virus this week that kept Speroni, McCarthy & Gardner out of the Leicester defeat. Kadell Daniel, Keiron Cadogan and a number of academy players have made the trip to Derby. Williams, Hills, Marrow & Wright are still out with various injuries. Chris Martin is ineligible as part of his loan contract. New loan signings Mustapha Dumbaya and John Egan are both eligible for this clash.
Derby Jeff Hendrick, Saul Deeney & Mark O'Brien all miss out for the Rams. O'Brien will be out for the remainder of the season after picking up a knee injury in training.
Preview
The Eagles travel to Derby County for their first FA Cup fixture of the campaign. The squad will be an accumulation of reserve and academy players as several key players have been hit with a virus as well as there being a semi-final against Cardiff on Tuesday.
With no previous meetings in the FA Cup this is anyone's match, especially with the last two meetings being tied. However the meeting before hand saw Derby storm to a 5-0 victory at Pride Park in which ex-Eagle Shefki Kuqi scored the fifth and final goal.
The sides have met a grand total of 63 times, in which Derby boast a remarkable 28 wins, with Palace being 10 wins behind them. The sides have not met in a cup match since 1970 in the League Cup which (ironically) was also a draw.
My CPFC line-up
I will not be doing a line-up for this one, purely because there are a lot of different players travelling to Derby and I couldn't begin to tell you where I would put them.
Best of luck to the debutants and all the lads!
Derby's last six:
W-W-W-L-W-D
The draw was against Palace.
Last time out
Crystal Palace 1-1 Derby County
Martin (15') McCarthy (og) (75')
Match Facts:
- The sides have met 63 times with Derby boasting 28 wins to Palace's 18.
- The last meeting saw two Palace players score but at different ends of the pitch.
- The sides have never met in an FA Cup game before.
- Derby have scored an average of 1.45 goals at home this season, conceding 1.07.
- Palace have scored an average of 1 goal away from home, conceding 1.23.
- Palace are most deadly in front of goal in the final 15 minutes of a game; Derby have conceded six goals in this time period (scoring none).
- Derby are most deadly in front of goal in the middles 15 minutes of the second half (61-75) scoring 11 goals. Palace have conceded 8 goals in this time frame.
Prediction:
Derby 2-2 Palace
Sunday 1 January 2012
Leicester City Preview: Monday 2nd January 2012 (League)
NYE Action...
A South London rivalry match was on the cards to close Palace's 2011 portion of the season and after a loss to league leaders Southampton on Boxing Day, a win over Millwall was crucial to ensure they end the year on a high. The Lions completed the double over Palace last season but when the sides met just over a month ago it was a goalless draw that included a missed penalty by Murray.
The sides were even for a total of 23 minutes before a counter attack from Palace provided Jermaine Easter with the game's only goal. A great pass to Chris Martin, followed by a through ball into the box for Ambrose who squared it to Jamma who slotted home from 5 yards out meant that Palace jumped to 7th before Burnley's victory saw them leapfrog the Eagles. Palace sitting pretty in 8th for the start of the new year and a match against Leicester on Monday that could help shape a good run of form to build their play off hopes.
Team News
Crystal Palace may welcome back both David Wright and Dean Moxey from injury, but set to be without Julian Speroni as he looks to recover from a serious viral infection. Jonathan Williams, Alex Marrow and Lee Hills remain long-term absentees.
Leicester City have no new injury worries giving Nigel Pearson a fully fit squad to pick from. Neil Danns may well play against his former club for the first time having recently been more involved with the first team.
Preview
After a victory over rivals Millwall on Saturday, Crystal Palace return to Selhurst Park to face-off against the Championship's moneybags Leicester City. The Foxes were rumoured to be interested in hiring Dougie Freedman as ex-England boss Sven Goran-Eriksson's replacement in November and chants off "F*ck Off Leicester City, Dougie is ours!" could be heard around the ground when the sides met at the King Power Stadium. Leicester strolled to a 3-0 win over Palace that day so when the sides meet on Monday for an early 1:00pm kick off: I. Want. Revenge.
The sides have met just 15 times in the last ten years with Leicester claiming six wins over Palace's four most notable of the 15 was the 2-2 draw in 2007 in which Clinton Morrison's 90th minute equaliser saved Palace from defeat just minutes after Kisnorbo gave Leicester the lead.
My CPFC line-up
Subs: Fitzsimons, Ramage, Wright, Garvan, Easter
Leicester's last six:
D-D-L-D-L-W
Last time out:
Leicester City 3-0 Crystal Palace
Match Facts:
-The sides have played a total of 58 times: Palace 20-16-22 Leicester
-Palace have scored an average of 0.9 goals at home this season, conceding 0.54
-Leicester have scored an average of 1.09 goals on their travels this season, conceding 1.27
-Palace have scored 9 goals in the final 15 minutes of games this season, Leicester concede heaviest in the final 30 minutes.
My Prediction:
Crystal Palace 2-1 Leicester
Murray Nugent
Zaha
A South London rivalry match was on the cards to close Palace's 2011 portion of the season and after a loss to league leaders Southampton on Boxing Day, a win over Millwall was crucial to ensure they end the year on a high. The Lions completed the double over Palace last season but when the sides met just over a month ago it was a goalless draw that included a missed penalty by Murray.
The sides were even for a total of 23 minutes before a counter attack from Palace provided Jermaine Easter with the game's only goal. A great pass to Chris Martin, followed by a through ball into the box for Ambrose who squared it to Jamma who slotted home from 5 yards out meant that Palace jumped to 7th before Burnley's victory saw them leapfrog the Eagles. Palace sitting pretty in 8th for the start of the new year and a match against Leicester on Monday that could help shape a good run of form to build their play off hopes.
Team News
Crystal Palace may welcome back both David Wright and Dean Moxey from injury, but set to be without Julian Speroni as he looks to recover from a serious viral infection. Jonathan Williams, Alex Marrow and Lee Hills remain long-term absentees.
Leicester City have no new injury worries giving Nigel Pearson a fully fit squad to pick from. Neil Danns may well play against his former club for the first time having recently been more involved with the first team.
Preview
After a victory over rivals Millwall on Saturday, Crystal Palace return to Selhurst Park to face-off against the Championship's moneybags Leicester City. The Foxes were rumoured to be interested in hiring Dougie Freedman as ex-England boss Sven Goran-Eriksson's replacement in November and chants off "F*ck Off Leicester City, Dougie is ours!" could be heard around the ground when the sides met at the King Power Stadium. Leicester strolled to a 3-0 win over Palace that day so when the sides meet on Monday for an early 1:00pm kick off: I. Want. Revenge.
The sides have met just 15 times in the last ten years with Leicester claiming six wins over Palace's four most notable of the 15 was the 2-2 draw in 2007 in which Clinton Morrison's 90th minute equaliser saved Palace from defeat just minutes after Kisnorbo gave Leicester the lead.
My CPFC line-up
Price
Clyne McCarthy Gardner Parr
KG Jedinak
Zaha Ambrose Scannell
Murray
Subs: Fitzsimons, Ramage, Wright, Garvan, Easter
Leicester's last six:
D-D-L-D-L-W
Last time out:
Leicester City 3-0 Crystal Palace
Match Facts:
-The sides have played a total of 58 times: Palace 20-16-22 Leicester
-Palace have scored an average of 0.9 goals at home this season, conceding 0.54
-Leicester have scored an average of 1.09 goals on their travels this season, conceding 1.27
-Palace have scored 9 goals in the final 15 minutes of games this season, Leicester concede heaviest in the final 30 minutes.
My Prediction:
Crystal Palace 2-1 Leicester
Murray Nugent
Zaha
Friday 30 December 2011
Millwall Preview: Saturday 31st January 2011 (League)
Boxing Day's bout...
The Christmas season brought challenges for The Eagles as they took a trip southbound to Southampton for a clash with the league leaders. Palace visited St Mary's with back-to-back wins under their belt and looked to secure a third win in a row for the third time this season. The Saints lead the Championship despite going three games without claiming all three points.
The Saints proved they were worthy of their league position as they came out fighting, Rickie Lambert denied by a good save from Julian Speroni. The Saints controlled the game and two headed efforts, on either side of the break, from Guly do Prado ensured they claimed all three points. The victory gives Southampton a three point lead on second place West Ham United and defeat sees Palace at tenth spot, just a point above arch-rivals Brighton.
Team News
Crystal Palace are without long-term injury list inhabitants Jonathan Williams, Lee Hills & Alex Marrow. Loanee Dekel Keinan returns to training and may hope to make an appearance whilst Dean Moxey remains doubtful.
Millwall's Nathan baker is as good as ruled out with his knee injury; Alan Dunne and Tony Craig will battle to replace him.
Preview
Palace travel a mere six miles to their South London rivals Millwall this Saturday in their final match of the year. The two sides met in November at Selhurst Park but could not be separated as the most defining moment of the game saw Glenn Murray step up for a spot kick, only to fire wide of the goal. A draw is disappointing for Palace this season as they've had a great first half, peaking at third place and reaching the Semi Finals of the Carling Cup, however last season a draw against Millwall would be an improvement as The Lions claimed all six points over Palace in the rivalry clash. In previous meetings the Lions have claimed 38 wins in all competitions whilst Palace are behind with 27. The sides have drawn 28 times in all competitions.
My CPFC line-up
Speroni
Clyne McCarthy Gardner Ramage
Wright Jedinak
Zaha Ambrose Scannell
Murray
Subs: Price, Keinan, KG, Easter, Martin
Millwall's last six:
W-L-D-L-W-D
Last time out:
Palace 0-0 Millwall
Match Facts:
- The sides have played a total of 93 times: Millwall 38-28-27 Palace
- Millwall have scored an average of 1.41 goals at home this season, conceding 0.75.
- Palace have scored an average of 1 goal on their travels this season, conceding 1.33.
- Palace have scored nine goals in the final 15 this season, Millwall have conceded eight in this time frame.
My Prediction:
Millwall 0-1 Palace
Gardner
Saturday 24 December 2011
Southampton Preview: Boxing Day (League)
Monday night football...
The Eagle welcomed Birmingham City on Monday for the first time since 2009 when the sides were all level at Selhurst Park.
The Blues opened fire early on with Nathan Redmond shooting from long range, however Speroni was equal to it and got his body in the way, forcing the ball for a corner.
Palace took their turn at goal, Mile Jedinak (who has had mixed reviews since joining Palace) let off a fierce half volley from range, forcing Myhill to make a very good save. Palace pushed again just minutes later, Clyne & Scannel combining well to put the right-back in on goal but a brilliant last ditch tackle from Murphy sent the ball out for a corner, despite calls for a penalty from fans it was a fantastic tackle.
The second half saw Palace come flying out the traps, Jedinak coming close again from a set-piece, his headed effort was saved, once again, by Myhill. A scramble from a corner that came shortly after left Palace frustrated, Murray with the first effort before KG's effort from the edge of the D was blocked for another corner, Palace looked very menacing. The corner that followed built even more frustration as Paddy McCarthy struck the post with a header that had beaten the Blues 'keeper.
Birmingham found their attacking stride as Burke beat Parr to get a good shot off that tested Speroni, Caldwell's follow-up header cleared the bar.
Another corner for Palace and finally their pressure was rewarded, the original cross was cleared to Clyne who passed it back to Ambrose, KG ran into the area from 30 yards out to hunt down the cross that followed and it was his head that turned the ball over Myhill and into the back of the net to secure the victory for Palace. Not quite sure what his dancing celebration was about but Scannell and Gardner joined in with the South African international who scores his first of the season. Palace now move up to eighth in the table, just two points clear of the play-off zone.
Team news
Crystal Palace will of course play without Lee Hills, Jonathan Williams & Alex Marrow as the trio suffer from three different leg injuries. Wilfried Zaha will return at St Mary's following his suspension. Jedinak will miss out through suspension and Moxey (knee) and Keinan (ankle) are doubtful.
Southampton will hope that Richard Chaplow is fit after missing the last three matches with a knee injury. Lee Barnard is sidelined however for another two months due to his ankle injury.
Preview
Crystal Palace board the coach on Boxing Day with a trip to the league leaders Southampton awaiting them. The two sides have met once already this season, Southampton crossing Palace at Selhurst Park and being stomped out 2-0 as Palace progressed in the Carling Cup. However, this is an entirely different kettle of fish as Southampton have had an almost perfect home record so far this season drawing just one of the eleven they've played at St Mary's; the other ten were victories. The Saints are without a win in three which bodes well for The Eagles.
Crystal Palace's away form last season was abysmal, winning just one game. However this season they've seen a much better return on their travels; winning five. It does have to be mentioned that away fixtures are "hit and miss" for Palace as they have not only won five, but lost the other six.
In the spirit of Christmas let's hope that the lads are not too full from Grandma's turkey & stuffing and can leave the south with more than nothing as even a draw against So'ton at home is a very good result. Unfortunately, given the time of year I am unable to make the trip down south for this one, restricted train services don't permit me much further than Croydon. But to all that are attending, sing loud, be proud, make it a very merry christmas for all in Red n Blue (or yellow as the case may be).
Southampton's last six:
D-D-L-W-L-W
My CPFC line-up
Match Facts:
- The sides have met 70 times over the years; Southampton 31-16-23 Crystal Palace.
- Crystal Palace have scored an average of 1.09 goals on their travels, conceding 1.27.
- Southampton have scored an average of 2.54 goals at St Mary's, conceding 0.72.
- Southampton have beaten Palace once in the last six meetings (two draws).
- Neither side has 'done the double' over the other since the 92/93 season when Southampton travelled to Selhurst Park in September to win 1-2 and then home to win 1-0. However, in between these fixtures Palace beat Southampton in the League Cup, 0-2.
My Prediction
Southampton 2-1 C Palace
Lambert Martin
Lallana
PALACE FANS DO NOT SLEIGH ME FOR THIS PREDICTION, I HAVE BEEN HONEST WITH MY PREDICTION HOWEVER I DO HOPE WE WIN!
The Eagle welcomed Birmingham City on Monday for the first time since 2009 when the sides were all level at Selhurst Park.
The Blues opened fire early on with Nathan Redmond shooting from long range, however Speroni was equal to it and got his body in the way, forcing the ball for a corner.
Palace took their turn at goal, Mile Jedinak (who has had mixed reviews since joining Palace) let off a fierce half volley from range, forcing Myhill to make a very good save. Palace pushed again just minutes later, Clyne & Scannel combining well to put the right-back in on goal but a brilliant last ditch tackle from Murphy sent the ball out for a corner, despite calls for a penalty from fans it was a fantastic tackle.
The second half saw Palace come flying out the traps, Jedinak coming close again from a set-piece, his headed effort was saved, once again, by Myhill. A scramble from a corner that came shortly after left Palace frustrated, Murray with the first effort before KG's effort from the edge of the D was blocked for another corner, Palace looked very menacing. The corner that followed built even more frustration as Paddy McCarthy struck the post with a header that had beaten the Blues 'keeper.
Birmingham found their attacking stride as Burke beat Parr to get a good shot off that tested Speroni, Caldwell's follow-up header cleared the bar.
Another corner for Palace and finally their pressure was rewarded, the original cross was cleared to Clyne who passed it back to Ambrose, KG ran into the area from 30 yards out to hunt down the cross that followed and it was his head that turned the ball over Myhill and into the back of the net to secure the victory for Palace. Not quite sure what his dancing celebration was about but Scannell and Gardner joined in with the South African international who scores his first of the season. Palace now move up to eighth in the table, just two points clear of the play-off zone.
Team news
Crystal Palace will of course play without Lee Hills, Jonathan Williams & Alex Marrow as the trio suffer from three different leg injuries. Wilfried Zaha will return at St Mary's following his suspension. Jedinak will miss out through suspension and Moxey (knee) and Keinan (ankle) are doubtful.
Southampton will hope that Richard Chaplow is fit after missing the last three matches with a knee injury. Lee Barnard is sidelined however for another two months due to his ankle injury.
Preview
Crystal Palace board the coach on Boxing Day with a trip to the league leaders Southampton awaiting them. The two sides have met once already this season, Southampton crossing Palace at Selhurst Park and being stomped out 2-0 as Palace progressed in the Carling Cup. However, this is an entirely different kettle of fish as Southampton have had an almost perfect home record so far this season drawing just one of the eleven they've played at St Mary's; the other ten were victories. The Saints are without a win in three which bodes well for The Eagles.
Crystal Palace's away form last season was abysmal, winning just one game. However this season they've seen a much better return on their travels; winning five. It does have to be mentioned that away fixtures are "hit and miss" for Palace as they have not only won five, but lost the other six.
In the spirit of Christmas let's hope that the lads are not too full from Grandma's turkey & stuffing and can leave the south with more than nothing as even a draw against So'ton at home is a very good result. Unfortunately, given the time of year I am unable to make the trip down south for this one, restricted train services don't permit me much further than Croydon. But to all that are attending, sing loud, be proud, make it a very merry christmas for all in Red n Blue (or yellow as the case may be).
Southampton's last six:
D-D-L-W-L-W
My CPFC line-up
Speroni
Clyne McCarthy Ramage Parr
Wright Dikgacoi
Zaha Ambrose Scannell
Martin
Subs: Price, Gardner, O'Keefe, Easter, Murray
Last time out
Crystal Palace 2-0 Southampton
Ambrose (73')
Easter (pen, 82')
Match Facts:
- The sides have met 70 times over the years; Southampton 31-16-23 Crystal Palace.
- Crystal Palace have scored an average of 1.09 goals on their travels, conceding 1.27.
- Southampton have scored an average of 2.54 goals at St Mary's, conceding 0.72.
- Southampton have beaten Palace once in the last six meetings (two draws).
- Neither side has 'done the double' over the other since the 92/93 season when Southampton travelled to Selhurst Park in September to win 1-2 and then home to win 1-0. However, in between these fixtures Palace beat Southampton in the League Cup, 0-2.
My Prediction
Southampton 2-1 C Palace
Lambert Martin
Lallana
PALACE FANS DO NOT SLEIGH ME FOR THIS PREDICTION, I HAVE BEEN HONEST WITH MY PREDICTION HOWEVER I DO HOPE WE WIN!
Sunday 18 December 2011
Birmingham City Preview: Monday 19th December 2011 (League)
Well it seems like forever since we were here last but much has changed in CPFC land. As we all know, Glenn Murray gave us the vital three points last week to secure a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest and just days ago, academy starlet and first team wing wizard Wilfried Zaha penned a new FIVE year deal to secure his future at Crystal Palace. Congratulations to Wilf and we hope you are a huge part of future successes.
Swindon Town are also keen to keep on-loan Palace keeper Wes Foderingham for longer as the young stopper has impressed at the County Ground.
Saturday's action...
The Eagles boarded the team coach last Saturday on a trip to Nottingham Forest. Forest have been struggling in the league and after their recent 3 losses it didn't look good. Palace were on a poor run of their own and it may perhaps be hopes to change that, that fired them up for this one.
Early chances set the tone for some games and Palace were first to threaten their opponents when Zaha flicked the ball on for Glenn Murray, he run on a few paces before letting loose a fierce right footed effort, beaten away by Forest 'keeper Lee Camp.
Forest brought on a chance of their own, Paddy McCarthy failing to control a pass from Julian Speroni. The mistake was pounced upon by Anderson who seemed clear through on goal, that was until Anthony Gardner came flying in as if from nowhere to put in a vital body block. Forest created a chance from a corner and the visitors were almost beaten, a cleverly snap header from Luke Chambers forced a tremendous save from Speroni, one of his best by far (and that's saying something). McCleary was the next to try his luck, Speroni diving again to block the shot, showing why he's claimed the Player Of The Year title at Selhurst Park for three of the last four years.
From a great block at one end to a sneaky shot on goal, Anthony Gardner was up for a free kick, Scannell finding him in the box, his lobbed shot was tipped over by Camp as Palace started to become more threatening.
The second half started perfectly for Palace, their dangerous duo of Zaha & Murray gave the latter a chance that he took well, slotting the ball across goal and into the inside netting, Palace 1-0 Nottm Forest.
This result made sure Forest stayed in the bottom three, whilst Palace make a slow but steady climb up the table.
Team News
Crystal Palace will of course be without long term absentees Jonathan Williams, Lee Hills & Alex Marrow. Sean Scannell made a return from a knock on Saturday whilst Moxey missed out and could be a doubt. The Eagles will also be without Wilfried Zaha as his booking against Forest sees him suspended. Dekel Keinan is a doubt after injections to speed up his recovery were performed.
Birmingham will be without Liam Ridgewell (thigh) and Jordan Mutch is likely to get a bench spot after his return from a broken ankle in midweek. Stephen Carr is likely to start after being rested in their European clash.
Preview
With a win against Forest under their belts, Palace return to Selhurst Park for a mid-table clash with newly relegated Birmingham City. The Blues were knocked out of the Europa League in mid week, despite beating NK Maribor 1-0 and will be on the front foot from the off. They have kept some of their Premier League class players like skipper Stephen Carr and front man Zigic and will be worthy opponents on Monday night.
The sides have met 46 times and of those 46 meetings, they are hard to separate, Palace claim 17 victories whilst Birmingham claim 19, with ten games drawn. Most recently in 2009 the sides were all square at the end of 90 minutes with not one goal between them but Birmingham did grab a winner in 2008 with Garry O'Connor in the 90th minute. Just two players remain in the Palace squad since that day, Julian Speroni and Sean Scannell, Sean warming the bench for the full ninety.
My CPFC line-up
Swindon Town are also keen to keep on-loan Palace keeper Wes Foderingham for longer as the young stopper has impressed at the County Ground.
Saturday's action...
The Eagles boarded the team coach last Saturday on a trip to Nottingham Forest. Forest have been struggling in the league and after their recent 3 losses it didn't look good. Palace were on a poor run of their own and it may perhaps be hopes to change that, that fired them up for this one.
Early chances set the tone for some games and Palace were first to threaten their opponents when Zaha flicked the ball on for Glenn Murray, he run on a few paces before letting loose a fierce right footed effort, beaten away by Forest 'keeper Lee Camp.
Forest brought on a chance of their own, Paddy McCarthy failing to control a pass from Julian Speroni. The mistake was pounced upon by Anderson who seemed clear through on goal, that was until Anthony Gardner came flying in as if from nowhere to put in a vital body block. Forest created a chance from a corner and the visitors were almost beaten, a cleverly snap header from Luke Chambers forced a tremendous save from Speroni, one of his best by far (and that's saying something). McCleary was the next to try his luck, Speroni diving again to block the shot, showing why he's claimed the Player Of The Year title at Selhurst Park for three of the last four years.
From a great block at one end to a sneaky shot on goal, Anthony Gardner was up for a free kick, Scannell finding him in the box, his lobbed shot was tipped over by Camp as Palace started to become more threatening.
The second half started perfectly for Palace, their dangerous duo of Zaha & Murray gave the latter a chance that he took well, slotting the ball across goal and into the inside netting, Palace 1-0 Nottm Forest.
This result made sure Forest stayed in the bottom three, whilst Palace make a slow but steady climb up the table.
Team News
Crystal Palace will of course be without long term absentees Jonathan Williams, Lee Hills & Alex Marrow. Sean Scannell made a return from a knock on Saturday whilst Moxey missed out and could be a doubt. The Eagles will also be without Wilfried Zaha as his booking against Forest sees him suspended. Dekel Keinan is a doubt after injections to speed up his recovery were performed.
Birmingham will be without Liam Ridgewell (thigh) and Jordan Mutch is likely to get a bench spot after his return from a broken ankle in midweek. Stephen Carr is likely to start after being rested in their European clash.
Preview
With a win against Forest under their belts, Palace return to Selhurst Park for a mid-table clash with newly relegated Birmingham City. The Blues were knocked out of the Europa League in mid week, despite beating NK Maribor 1-0 and will be on the front foot from the off. They have kept some of their Premier League class players like skipper Stephen Carr and front man Zigic and will be worthy opponents on Monday night.
The sides have met 46 times and of those 46 meetings, they are hard to separate, Palace claim 17 victories whilst Birmingham claim 19, with ten games drawn. Most recently in 2009 the sides were all square at the end of 90 minutes with not one goal between them but Birmingham did grab a winner in 2008 with Garry O'Connor in the 90th minute. Just two players remain in the Palace squad since that day, Julian Speroni and Sean Scannell, Sean warming the bench for the full ninety.
My CPFC line-up
Speroni
Clyne McCarthy (c) Gardner Parr
Wright
Ambrose Dikgacoi
Scannell
Murray Martin
Subs: Price, Ramage, Garvan, Andrew, Pedroza
Birmingham's last six:
W-W-L-L-L-D
Last time out:
C Palace 0-0 B'ham
Match Facts:
- The two sides have met 46 times, Palace 17-10-19 Birmingham.
- Birmingham have scored an average of 1.3 goals away from home this season, conceding 1.8.
- Palace have scored an average of 0.9 goals at home this season, conceding 0.6.
- Birmingham have scored an amazing 10 goals in the last 15 mins of matches this season, conceding 3.
- Palace have conceded 4 in the last 15 mins of matches, scoring 8.
My Prediction
C Palace 1-1 B'ham
Ambrose Zigic
Friday 9 December 2011
Nottingham Forest Preview: 10th December 2011 (League)
Tuesday night's action...
The Eagles travelled northwards to Oakwell on Tuesday night to face off against an in-form Barnsley who have gained nine points from their last three games. The Tykes sit just below The Eagles on goal difference in the league and will hope to leap frog their visitors as well as a few others with a fourth win in a row.
Dougie Freedman dropped skipper Paddy McCarthy to the bench for this match and may be criticized for doing so, as Barnsley's goal hungry Vaz Te let rip to guide the ball through Julian Speroni's hands and into the net after just nine seconds. The Tykes charged from kick off and Vaz Te's effort from the edge of the box defied Speroni putting the hosts 1-0 up. Jermaine Easter equalised for Palace on the half hour mark, Stephen Foster's back header to Steele didn't reach it's target and Easter sprung to dink the ball over the Tykes' keeper.
Jacob Butterfield's driven shot from outside the box was parried by Jules but the ex-Bolton striker Vaz Te was there to strike again giving the home side a lead with 13 minutes to go that would seal three points for Barnsley.
A fifth win in six games puts Barnsley two points and two places from the play-off spots, whereas defeat means Palace are without a victory in seven league games and with an out of form Nottingham Forest at the weekend will hope to return to winning ways.
Team News
Crystal Palace's list of injuries was added to when they claimed a semi-final spot ahead of Manchester United eleven days ago, Sean Scannell picking up a hamstring injury, Dean Moxey an ankle knock. They are joined by Jonathan Parr (thigh) and on-loan centre back Dekel Keinan (ankle) as well as the long term absentees Williams, Hills & Marrow. Giving Freedman something to ponder when selecting a side to face Forest. Scannell is doubtful but may feature if he recovers from his hamstring injury.
Nottingham Forest will be without Ishmael Miller who suffers from a broken metatarsal, Chris Cohen is a long term absentee but Andy Reid will be fit to start after returning from suspension. Dexter Blackstock, Lewis McGugan, George Boateng, Matt Derbyshire & Brendan Moloney featured against Walsall in a reserves game with Reid so may feature for Forest.
Preview
Forest go into this one on the back of three defeats, Cardiff (1-0), Leeds (4-0) & Brighton (1-0), having not scored in three games it will be no surprise if the Reds have low self-esteem. However, Palace are without a win in the league in the last seven games, drawing four of these. Palace will be rattled by their long list of injuries but the key to Palace's successful wins over teams like Man United, Wigan and Middlesbrough this season (all in the cup) has been their excellent defence. Unfortunately their two left backs (Parr & Moxey) are both injured as well as having on loan centre back Dekel Keinan suffering from an ankle knock. Forests returning key players such as McGugan will probably play a huge role in Forest's attack, McGugan has scored the second highest goals at home for Forest, scoring two, one of which was a penalty. Tudgay holds the title of highest goal scorer at home with three, these are his only goals of the season thus far.
Newly appointed Forest boss Steve Cotterill is hoping for a repeat performance of the Reds show at The AmEx against Brighton where they lost 1-0. Cotteril told the club's website:
The Eagles travelled northwards to Oakwell on Tuesday night to face off against an in-form Barnsley who have gained nine points from their last three games. The Tykes sit just below The Eagles on goal difference in the league and will hope to leap frog their visitors as well as a few others with a fourth win in a row.
Dougie Freedman dropped skipper Paddy McCarthy to the bench for this match and may be criticized for doing so, as Barnsley's goal hungry Vaz Te let rip to guide the ball through Julian Speroni's hands and into the net after just nine seconds. The Tykes charged from kick off and Vaz Te's effort from the edge of the box defied Speroni putting the hosts 1-0 up. Jermaine Easter equalised for Palace on the half hour mark, Stephen Foster's back header to Steele didn't reach it's target and Easter sprung to dink the ball over the Tykes' keeper.
Jacob Butterfield's driven shot from outside the box was parried by Jules but the ex-Bolton striker Vaz Te was there to strike again giving the home side a lead with 13 minutes to go that would seal three points for Barnsley.
A fifth win in six games puts Barnsley two points and two places from the play-off spots, whereas defeat means Palace are without a victory in seven league games and with an out of form Nottingham Forest at the weekend will hope to return to winning ways.
Team News
Crystal Palace's list of injuries was added to when they claimed a semi-final spot ahead of Manchester United eleven days ago, Sean Scannell picking up a hamstring injury, Dean Moxey an ankle knock. They are joined by Jonathan Parr (thigh) and on-loan centre back Dekel Keinan (ankle) as well as the long term absentees Williams, Hills & Marrow. Giving Freedman something to ponder when selecting a side to face Forest. Scannell is doubtful but may feature if he recovers from his hamstring injury.
Nottingham Forest will be without Ishmael Miller who suffers from a broken metatarsal, Chris Cohen is a long term absentee but Andy Reid will be fit to start after returning from suspension. Dexter Blackstock, Lewis McGugan, George Boateng, Matt Derbyshire & Brendan Moloney featured against Walsall in a reserves game with Reid so may feature for Forest.
Preview
Forest go into this one on the back of three defeats, Cardiff (1-0), Leeds (4-0) & Brighton (1-0), having not scored in three games it will be no surprise if the Reds have low self-esteem. However, Palace are without a win in the league in the last seven games, drawing four of these. Palace will be rattled by their long list of injuries but the key to Palace's successful wins over teams like Man United, Wigan and Middlesbrough this season (all in the cup) has been their excellent defence. Unfortunately their two left backs (Parr & Moxey) are both injured as well as having on loan centre back Dekel Keinan suffering from an ankle knock. Forests returning key players such as McGugan will probably play a huge role in Forest's attack, McGugan has scored the second highest goals at home for Forest, scoring two, one of which was a penalty. Tudgay holds the title of highest goal scorer at home with three, these are his only goals of the season thus far.
Newly appointed Forest boss Steve Cotterill is hoping for a repeat performance of the Reds show at The AmEx against Brighton where they lost 1-0. Cotteril told the club's website:
"We produced a really, really good performance down at Brighton...
we won't play like that again and get beat"
My CPFC line-up:
Speroni
Clyne McCarthy Gardner Ramage
Zaha Jedinak Garvan Ambrose
Easter
Murray
Subs: Price, Wright, Dikgacoi, Scannell, Martin
Forest's last six:
L-L-L-W-L-W
Last time out:
Crystal Palace 0-3 Notts Forest
McGugan (17')
Tudgay (70')
McGoldrick (80')
Match Facts:
- The sides have met 58 times over the years, Forest boast 26 victories out of these, Palace winning 15.
- Forest have won 55% of their points at home this season, with 3 wins and 2 draws, balanced by five losses.
- Palace have won 44.4% of their points away from home this season, winning 4 and losing 6.
- The Reds have scored an average of 1.1 goals at home this season, conceding 1.8.
- Palace have scored an average of 1.1 goals on their travels this season, conceding 1.4.
My Prediction:
Nottingham Forest 1-2 Crystal Palace
McGugan Murray
Ambrose
-
Monday 5 December 2011
Barnsley Preview: Tuesday 6th December 2011 (League)
Friday's action...
After their victory over Man United in the League Cup, Crystal Palace had to return to Selhurst Park and recover in timely fashion for their fixture with Derby County in the league. The Rams came to Selhurst Park on the back of a poor spell in the league, without a single point in five games.
The Eagles flew out the traps, Darren Ambrose who scored the opener at Old Trafford, had his effort on the edge of the box blocked, only to fall to Murray whose effort was well saved by Frank Fielding. An eighteen yard box scramble had Palace shouting for a penalty but the referee kept his hands by his side.
Palace's goal against United was a 35 yard screamer from Darren Ambrose but it was Chris Martin, Palace's loanee from Norwich City that opened the scoring. His effort from 20 yards finding the bottom corner of the net on the 15th minute, a slight deflection defying Fielding. Ben Davies gave Derby a shot on goal from a free kick, curving it round the wall along the ground but Julian Speroni gathered it well.
Ambrose is no stranger to a long range effort, after cries of "Shoot!" from the Red n Blue faithful the 27-year-old let rip with his lesser favored left foot and forced a good save from Frank Fielding.
With the first half looking like a Palace victory on the cards, Derby had some changes to make and as the second half got under way, The Rams charged. With McCarthy blocking one shot and Jedinak the other, Derby looked threatening. Palace's corner gave Murray a half chance and his glancing header was gathered up by Fielding.
Fifteen minutes from the end tragedy struck, Paul Green crossed the ball from the right, aiming for Ball but the Derby striker was beaten to the punch by Paddy McCarthy who's acrobatic attempt at clearing the ball only put the ball past Speroni and into the Palace goal, giving the visitors a vital point. Green played a big role for Derby and almost snatched all three points but for a fine save by Speroni.
Team News
Crystal Palace are without long term absentees Jonny Williams (leg), Lee Hills (knee) and Alex Marrow (ankle) as well as Dean Moxey and Sean Scannell, who picked up injuries in the clash with United, being doubtful.
Barnsley have two players to think about; James McEveley (knee) and Jacob Butterfield (foot) are concerns for Keith Hill but the Tykes' boss is confident they will both be fit for Tuesday night's game.
Preview
With a single goal keeping Crystal Palace above them, Barnsley will hope to continue their great run of form when The Eagles travel to Oakwell on Tuesday night. Crystal Palace are on the back of an unfortunate draw with Derby County and a shock win over Manchester United in the League Cup. Barnsley however have a more consistent form to boast at the moment, having won their last three, most recent of which was their thrilling 3-4 victory over one of the leagues high scoring teams, Peterborough, on Saturday.
History shows there is always little to choose between the sides having met 56 times, Palace only winning four less than Barnsley who have 25 wins on their side, trumping Palace's 21. All of the meetings have been in the league.
Palace's scoring record at Oakwell does not look good having only scored once in the last five trips, this solo goal came from Shefki Kuqi after just 8 minutes in 2009. The Tykes went on to win the fixture 3-1, one of the three being an own goal from Lee Hills.
However Palace will be boosted by their recent turn of luck after their win over United and the knowledge that the last time they met Barnsley they walked away with all three points, may hope to get on the score sheet early. Freedman says he always goes out to win a game but I'm sure the Scot wouldn't say no to a draw against an in-form Barnsley.
My CPFC line-up
After their victory over Man United in the League Cup, Crystal Palace had to return to Selhurst Park and recover in timely fashion for their fixture with Derby County in the league. The Rams came to Selhurst Park on the back of a poor spell in the league, without a single point in five games.
The Eagles flew out the traps, Darren Ambrose who scored the opener at Old Trafford, had his effort on the edge of the box blocked, only to fall to Murray whose effort was well saved by Frank Fielding. An eighteen yard box scramble had Palace shouting for a penalty but the referee kept his hands by his side.
Palace's goal against United was a 35 yard screamer from Darren Ambrose but it was Chris Martin, Palace's loanee from Norwich City that opened the scoring. His effort from 20 yards finding the bottom corner of the net on the 15th minute, a slight deflection defying Fielding. Ben Davies gave Derby a shot on goal from a free kick, curving it round the wall along the ground but Julian Speroni gathered it well.
Ambrose is no stranger to a long range effort, after cries of "Shoot!" from the Red n Blue faithful the 27-year-old let rip with his lesser favored left foot and forced a good save from Frank Fielding.
With the first half looking like a Palace victory on the cards, Derby had some changes to make and as the second half got under way, The Rams charged. With McCarthy blocking one shot and Jedinak the other, Derby looked threatening. Palace's corner gave Murray a half chance and his glancing header was gathered up by Fielding.
Fifteen minutes from the end tragedy struck, Paul Green crossed the ball from the right, aiming for Ball but the Derby striker was beaten to the punch by Paddy McCarthy who's acrobatic attempt at clearing the ball only put the ball past Speroni and into the Palace goal, giving the visitors a vital point. Green played a big role for Derby and almost snatched all three points but for a fine save by Speroni.
Team News
Crystal Palace are without long term absentees Jonny Williams (leg), Lee Hills (knee) and Alex Marrow (ankle) as well as Dean Moxey and Sean Scannell, who picked up injuries in the clash with United, being doubtful.
Barnsley have two players to think about; James McEveley (knee) and Jacob Butterfield (foot) are concerns for Keith Hill but the Tykes' boss is confident they will both be fit for Tuesday night's game.
Preview
With a single goal keeping Crystal Palace above them, Barnsley will hope to continue their great run of form when The Eagles travel to Oakwell on Tuesday night. Crystal Palace are on the back of an unfortunate draw with Derby County and a shock win over Manchester United in the League Cup. Barnsley however have a more consistent form to boast at the moment, having won their last three, most recent of which was their thrilling 3-4 victory over one of the leagues high scoring teams, Peterborough, on Saturday.
History shows there is always little to choose between the sides having met 56 times, Palace only winning four less than Barnsley who have 25 wins on their side, trumping Palace's 21. All of the meetings have been in the league.
Palace's scoring record at Oakwell does not look good having only scored once in the last five trips, this solo goal came from Shefki Kuqi after just 8 minutes in 2009. The Tykes went on to win the fixture 3-1, one of the three being an own goal from Lee Hills.
However Palace will be boosted by their recent turn of luck after their win over United and the knowledge that the last time they met Barnsley they walked away with all three points, may hope to get on the score sheet early. Freedman says he always goes out to win a game but I'm sure the Scot wouldn't say no to a draw against an in-form Barnsley.
My CPFC line-up
Speroni
Clyne McCarthy (c) Gardner Parr
Wright Garvan
Zaha Ambrose Pedroza
Murray
Subs: Price, Ramage, Jedinak, KG, Martin
Barnsley's last six:
W-W-W-L-W
Last time out:
Crystal Palace 2-1 Barnsley
Danns (29') Harewood (43')
Vaughan (Pen, 75')
Match Facts:
- The two sides have never met in a cup fixture but met 56 times in the league: Barnsley 25-21 Crystal Palace.
- Crystal Palace have only scored one goal against Barnsley in their last five away meetings. Barnsley have scored six.
- The Eagles have scored an average of 1.11 goals away from home this season, conceding 1.33.
- The Tykes have scored an average of 1.33 goals at home, conceding an average of 1.
- Barnsley are the weakest defensively in the period of 61-75 minutes, conceding eight goals in this time frame this season. They are at their strongest offensively between 31-45 minutes, scoring seven.
- Crystal Palace have scored 2 goals in The Tykes weak point of the game, and conceded just one in their strong point.
- Both sides have conceded 8 goals in the 61-75 minute time slot. However, Palace counter-act this with eight goals scored in the final fifteen minutes of the game.
My Prediction:
Barnsley 2-2 Crystal Palace
Davies (2) Murray
Ambrose
Thursday 1 December 2011
Derby County Preview: Friday 2nd December 2011 (League)
Wednesday night...
No combination of words in the whole of the world's linguistic listings could describe how I felt at half past ten on Wednesday night.
The weeks of torture and taunt that I endured during the countdown to Wednesday night was almost unbearable as my father and grandfather support Manchester United. I suffered and suffered and when the game kicked off there was a part of me saying "you better hope they're not merciless, that they have some sympathy for you" but I sat there, in the middle of my girlfriend's front room, eyes glued to the television and watched as both sides fought as if this was the final of the Champions League, not a Carling Cup quarter final. Zaha having a penalty/free kick claim denied but he picked himself up and continued to work his magic. The United players seemed too relaxed, as if victory was their right and not something they needed to work for, the Palace players throwing their all into it. Sean Scannell limped off, injured, before the break after a few collisions with Ji Sung Park and Fabio or Rafael Da Silva (not sure which one it was) and he was substituted for Jonathan Parr. Dean Moxey was replaced at the break, due to injury, by one Darren Ambrose. What a blessing in disguise this would turn out to be as after the hour mark both sides were going at it, still 0-0 up until the 65th minute. Zaha cutting inside from the right midfield to find Ambrose, under pressure from Park but able to slip away with a couple of touches, Darren let loose that ferocious right foot from 35 yards and gave Ben Amos something to grab at, but Amos' efforts were in vain as the rocket-esque ball flew with power, pace and swerve to defy his reach and ripple the top corner of the net. Forced to change locations and watch the game from my girlfriend's bedroom on her laptop I sprung from the bed with a cry of "YES!!" and she told me to stop shouting but it didn't matter, we were ahead against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Carling Cup quarter finals.
Straight onto the phone to my Dad who picked up the phone, uttered the word "B****cks" and hung up. His weeks of torture were long behind me now, but of course the joy was short lived. Paddy McCarthy pulled down Federico Macheda in the box and the penalty was rightly awarded. Macheda himself stepped up and sent goalkeeper Lewis Price the wrong way to level the sides.
The last twenty minutes of the ninety were edgy for both sides, Valencia proving a force to be reckoned with had come close a few times but his efforts were all in vain and he couldn't seem to find the deadly ball to settle it. Price making a wonderful save with his feet sticks out in my mind.
Extra time was on the cards and it was substitute Glenn Murray that provided the Palace fans something to celebrate and there are probably fans still celebrating now as Wilfried Zaha, trouble maker that he is, earned Palace a free kick on the left hand side of United's penalty area, Ambrose (that beautiful man) crossed in for Glenn Murray to duck and head home the winner in the first half of ET. I'll admit he was in an offside position but it was no more than Palace deserved as they proved that they are worthy contenders against anyone. A nervy second half of ET for Palace as countless defensive phenomenons came one after another, Paddy McCarthy intercepting Park's near effort, Anthony Gardner clearing almost off the line before throwing his head in front of another effort just moments later. Nathaniel Clyne was in excellent form all night, making an incredible tackle to keep Diouf from providing a late equalizer. Price made the final touch as he clung to the ball in his six yard box in the last ten seconds before launching it up field. The whistle blew, my heart leaped, my stomach was doing back flips and my fingers were flying off the buttons on my Blackberry and I could hardly believe it. Crystal Palace have beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Carling Cup quarter finals. Incredible!
A few quotes:
Dougie Freedman:
"When you come to Old Trafford you have to give it everything and the lads did that"
Alex Ferguson:
"Disappointed" ... "Not taking anything away from Palace, they deserved it"
Steve Taylor (my Dad, a United fan):
"Ya gonna lose son!" ... "Gibson will break your heart" .... "Enjoy your moment"
Jordan Gillam (Palace fan):
"One of the best performances I've seen away from home...not at any point during the game did I think we were going to lose it"
Jess Copper (Palace fan):
"Complete and utter perfection and the best whole team performance I've ever seen"
No words could possibly describe this feeling, but I am extremely proud to be a Crystal Palace supporter. Regardless of the result, the performance was flawless. The best of the best against the "underdogs" and we stepped up and took the game to them, gave it our all and got the reward. Priceless.
Team News:
Crystal Palace will look to rest a few players after Wednesday night's win over Man Utd in the Carling Cup (never get tired of saying that). Sean Scannell, Dean Moxey & Wilfried Zaha all put in good efforts, Moxey and Scannell having been subbed off in the first 45 minutes due to injury are expected to miss it. Zaha deserving a rest after playing the full 120mins with a tremendous effort. Jonathan Williams (leg), Lee Hills (knee) and Alex Marrow (ankle) all still out of action long term.
Derby County manager Nigel Clough signed Tamas Priskin on loan from Ipswich Town in the last week of November and the striker will hope for a place. John Brayford and Nathan Tyson are doubts for The Rams whilst Theo Robinson (thigh), Steven Davies (skull) & Kevin Kilbane (back) are all ruled out. Saul Deeney (shoulder) and Russell Anderson (hamstring) are also out.
Preview
Derby County are the visitors at Selhurst Park on Friday night with a vital three points up for grabs. Derby have lost their last five games, the last of which was a 1-0 defeat to Palace's rivals Brighton. Palace, on the back of a thrilling victory over Man United in the Carling Cup, get back to league action against The Rams and will hope to improve on their league form if they are to push for that play-off spot they held just weeks ago. The Eagles have lost two of their last five in the league and drew the other three 0-0 at home. Their last league match against Millwall left Palace fans in a state of shock as Glenn Murray (who scored the winner against United on Wednesday) put the ball wide of the post from 12 yards after McCarthy was fouled in the box. Hoping to get back to winning form, Dougie Freedman may need to rest some of his regulars as they put in a solid shift with overtime on Wednesday, the effects taking their toll as Scannell & Moxey both left the field with injuries, Wilfried Zaha seemed to have a strain towards the end, or perhaps just bad cramp. Either way, he deserves a rest for this one but with not many wingers to replace him, reserves and fringe players may get the nod to make their season debut. Stuart O'Keefe, a very competent and extremely talented midfield man, gave his all on Wednesday and seemed to have more fuel in the tank, he may be a sub or just a flat out starter after the performance he put in. The sides have produced nine goals in their last TWO meetings, seven being from The Rams, five in just one game at Pride Park. Their most recent meeting, at Selhurst Park, left the sides split down the middle 2-2, Darren Ambrose (his cracking goal setting the pace on Wednesday) with an 88th minute penalty to rescue the point for Palace last Spring.
The sides have met 62 times altogether and Derby have emerged victorious a whopping 28 times, with Palace getting ten less. The closest date to tomorrow that the sides have met on is the 1st December 1923 in the Old Division 2 where Derby emerged 5-0 victors. The 5 is a good number for Derby where Palace are concerned and having lost their last five, you just couldn't write it if Derby were to score another five past Palace. However, if Palace can keep out Manchester United for 120 minutes (bar a penalty) then I'm sure they can hold out an out-of-form Derby County.
My CPFC line-up:
No combination of words in the whole of the world's linguistic listings could describe how I felt at half past ten on Wednesday night.
The weeks of torture and taunt that I endured during the countdown to Wednesday night was almost unbearable as my father and grandfather support Manchester United. I suffered and suffered and when the game kicked off there was a part of me saying "you better hope they're not merciless, that they have some sympathy for you" but I sat there, in the middle of my girlfriend's front room, eyes glued to the television and watched as both sides fought as if this was the final of the Champions League, not a Carling Cup quarter final. Zaha having a penalty/free kick claim denied but he picked himself up and continued to work his magic. The United players seemed too relaxed, as if victory was their right and not something they needed to work for, the Palace players throwing their all into it. Sean Scannell limped off, injured, before the break after a few collisions with Ji Sung Park and Fabio or Rafael Da Silva (not sure which one it was) and he was substituted for Jonathan Parr. Dean Moxey was replaced at the break, due to injury, by one Darren Ambrose. What a blessing in disguise this would turn out to be as after the hour mark both sides were going at it, still 0-0 up until the 65th minute. Zaha cutting inside from the right midfield to find Ambrose, under pressure from Park but able to slip away with a couple of touches, Darren let loose that ferocious right foot from 35 yards and gave Ben Amos something to grab at, but Amos' efforts were in vain as the rocket-esque ball flew with power, pace and swerve to defy his reach and ripple the top corner of the net. Forced to change locations and watch the game from my girlfriend's bedroom on her laptop I sprung from the bed with a cry of "YES!!" and she told me to stop shouting but it didn't matter, we were ahead against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Carling Cup quarter finals.
Straight onto the phone to my Dad who picked up the phone, uttered the word "B****cks" and hung up. His weeks of torture were long behind me now, but of course the joy was short lived. Paddy McCarthy pulled down Federico Macheda in the box and the penalty was rightly awarded. Macheda himself stepped up and sent goalkeeper Lewis Price the wrong way to level the sides.
The last twenty minutes of the ninety were edgy for both sides, Valencia proving a force to be reckoned with had come close a few times but his efforts were all in vain and he couldn't seem to find the deadly ball to settle it. Price making a wonderful save with his feet sticks out in my mind.
Extra time was on the cards and it was substitute Glenn Murray that provided the Palace fans something to celebrate and there are probably fans still celebrating now as Wilfried Zaha, trouble maker that he is, earned Palace a free kick on the left hand side of United's penalty area, Ambrose (that beautiful man) crossed in for Glenn Murray to duck and head home the winner in the first half of ET. I'll admit he was in an offside position but it was no more than Palace deserved as they proved that they are worthy contenders against anyone. A nervy second half of ET for Palace as countless defensive phenomenons came one after another, Paddy McCarthy intercepting Park's near effort, Anthony Gardner clearing almost off the line before throwing his head in front of another effort just moments later. Nathaniel Clyne was in excellent form all night, making an incredible tackle to keep Diouf from providing a late equalizer. Price made the final touch as he clung to the ball in his six yard box in the last ten seconds before launching it up field. The whistle blew, my heart leaped, my stomach was doing back flips and my fingers were flying off the buttons on my Blackberry and I could hardly believe it. Crystal Palace have beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Carling Cup quarter finals. Incredible!
A few quotes:
Dougie Freedman:
"When you come to Old Trafford you have to give it everything and the lads did that"
Alex Ferguson:
"Disappointed" ... "Not taking anything away from Palace, they deserved it"
Steve Taylor (my Dad, a United fan):
"Ya gonna lose son!" ... "Gibson will break your heart" .... "Enjoy your moment"
Jordan Gillam (Palace fan):
"One of the best performances I've seen away from home...not at any point during the game did I think we were going to lose it"
Jess Copper (Palace fan):
"Complete and utter perfection and the best whole team performance I've ever seen"
No words could possibly describe this feeling, but I am extremely proud to be a Crystal Palace supporter. Regardless of the result, the performance was flawless. The best of the best against the "underdogs" and we stepped up and took the game to them, gave it our all and got the reward. Priceless.
Team News:
Crystal Palace will look to rest a few players after Wednesday night's win over Man Utd in the Carling Cup (never get tired of saying that). Sean Scannell, Dean Moxey & Wilfried Zaha all put in good efforts, Moxey and Scannell having been subbed off in the first 45 minutes due to injury are expected to miss it. Zaha deserving a rest after playing the full 120mins with a tremendous effort. Jonathan Williams (leg), Lee Hills (knee) and Alex Marrow (ankle) all still out of action long term.
Derby County manager Nigel Clough signed Tamas Priskin on loan from Ipswich Town in the last week of November and the striker will hope for a place. John Brayford and Nathan Tyson are doubts for The Rams whilst Theo Robinson (thigh), Steven Davies (skull) & Kevin Kilbane (back) are all ruled out. Saul Deeney (shoulder) and Russell Anderson (hamstring) are also out.
Preview
Derby County are the visitors at Selhurst Park on Friday night with a vital three points up for grabs. Derby have lost their last five games, the last of which was a 1-0 defeat to Palace's rivals Brighton. Palace, on the back of a thrilling victory over Man United in the Carling Cup, get back to league action against The Rams and will hope to improve on their league form if they are to push for that play-off spot they held just weeks ago. The Eagles have lost two of their last five in the league and drew the other three 0-0 at home. Their last league match against Millwall left Palace fans in a state of shock as Glenn Murray (who scored the winner against United on Wednesday) put the ball wide of the post from 12 yards after McCarthy was fouled in the box. Hoping to get back to winning form, Dougie Freedman may need to rest some of his regulars as they put in a solid shift with overtime on Wednesday, the effects taking their toll as Scannell & Moxey both left the field with injuries, Wilfried Zaha seemed to have a strain towards the end, or perhaps just bad cramp. Either way, he deserves a rest for this one but with not many wingers to replace him, reserves and fringe players may get the nod to make their season debut. Stuart O'Keefe, a very competent and extremely talented midfield man, gave his all on Wednesday and seemed to have more fuel in the tank, he may be a sub or just a flat out starter after the performance he put in. The sides have produced nine goals in their last TWO meetings, seven being from The Rams, five in just one game at Pride Park. Their most recent meeting, at Selhurst Park, left the sides split down the middle 2-2, Darren Ambrose (his cracking goal setting the pace on Wednesday) with an 88th minute penalty to rescue the point for Palace last Spring.
The sides have met 62 times altogether and Derby have emerged victorious a whopping 28 times, with Palace getting ten less. The closest date to tomorrow that the sides have met on is the 1st December 1923 in the Old Division 2 where Derby emerged 5-0 victors. The 5 is a good number for Derby where Palace are concerned and having lost their last five, you just couldn't write it if Derby were to score another five past Palace. However, if Palace can keep out Manchester United for 120 minutes (bar a penalty) then I'm sure they can hold out an out-of-form Derby County.
My CPFC line-up:
Speroni
Clyne McCarthy Ramage Parr
O'Keefe Jedinak
Cadogan Dikgacoi Garvan
Easter
Subs: Price, Gardner, Wright, Ambrose, Iversen
Derby's last six:
L-L-L-L-L-W
Last time out:
Crystal Palace 2-2 Derby County
Moxey (21') Pearson (7')
Ambrose (pen, 88') Ward (63')
Match Facts:
- The sides have met 62 times, Derby the victors 28, Palace 18.
- Neither side has won in their last five games, Palace drawing three, Derby losing all five.
- Crystal Palace score an average of 0.88 goals at home, conceding 0.55
- Derby score an average of 1 goal away from home, conceding 1.89.
- Derby's most common result so far this season is an away defeat, they have lost away five times this season.
- Palace have lost just one game at home so far this season.
- Derby have not scored in the last fifteen minutes all season, conceding 6 in that time period.
- Crystal Palace have scored 8 goals in the last fifteen minutes this season, their most dangerous period.
My Prediction:
Crystal Palace 3-1 Derby County
Easter Priskin
McCarthy
Cadogan
Monday 28 November 2011
Manchester United Preview: Wednesday 30th November 2011 (Carling Cup)
Saturday's Action...
Just one month before Christmas and, for some, it had come early as Crystal Palace faced off against Millwall at Selhurst Park in one of the most highly anticipated fixtures for fans of the respective clubs. The visitors "did the double" over The Eagles last season so revenge was in the minds of the Palace fans surrounding me as I traveled to the ground for my first match in ages. As I work for the club I am almost always working when we have home games so it was a nice change to be in the stands instead of serving behind the bar!
I'm no stranger when it comes to shouting at a match and it only took about thirty seconds for me to scream at Scannell to "break his f*cking legs!" when he went in for a challenge on a Millwall defender, earning me a chuckle from the fat bald bloke in front of me (no offence mate).
Glenn Murray's early chance had us (the fans in block D) out of our seats as the ball came across from Dean Moxey on the left, replays showing the tiniest of deflections to take it out of Murray's path.
Millwall gave Speroni a touch of the ball soon after as Jay Simpson's header was easily gathered by the Palace 'keeper. Liam Feeney on the right hand side of Millwall's attacking play, was causing trouble for Moxey all afternoon and his cross almost found 19-year-old Marquis at the back post but was just over the number 9's head.
Palace's own wing wizard, Wilfried Zaha, made a chance for himself with a little help from Chris Martin (who made is home debut in this match) who provided a back heel pass, Zaha taking on a few defenders before letting off a right footed strike that was comfortable for Millwall No.1 Steve Mildenhall.
Glenn Murray got another chance for The Eagles, a good team move and a perfectly weighted cross from Jedinak, gave Murray the ball in the box, controlling with the chest before turning to volley it, his shot was closed down by two defenders and gathered by Mildenhall. Murray showed some more acrobatics as another cross from Jedinak was headed back across goal by Chris Martin, Murray's bicycle kick kept out by the hand of Mildenhall who refused to give Murray the goal he was hunting for.
Marquis sprung onto a slip-up by Paddy McCarthy to create a chance for himself but McCarthy recovered well and with the help of Anthony Gardner was able to force the ball to Speroni for collection.
Sean Scannell with the next chance, after slipping on the edge of the box he stood back up and let off a powerful right footed strike, glancing across the face of goal, no threat to the net.
Marquis' cross to Barron gave Millwall a chance before the break but the headed effort was well gathered up by Speroni, the sides entering the interval as equals.
The second half saw The Eagles come out strongly, Moxey's cross to Murray cleared for a corner at the last second by Aston Villa loanee Shane Lowry before Wilfried Zaha's left footed strike inside the box was beaten away by Mildenhall. Zaha then set-up Scannell on the edge of the box who's scuffed shot just fizzed past the upright nearest Holmesdale's infamous Block B.
Owen Garvan's corner was almost converted by Paddy McCarthy, and probably would've been, had Paul Robinson not pulled the skipper's shirt and given away a penalty for Crystal Palace. Glenn Murray stepped up to the spot just as penalty specialist Darren Ambrose was subbed on. Murray's run up was stuttered and despite the 'keeper showing signs of going to his left, Murray went the same way as the Millwall goalie. That didn't matter though as Murray's shot was the wrong side of the post; a golden opportunity, wasted. Palace fans around me in disbelief.
Millwall's final chance came from Liam Feeney, the number 15 made his way into the right hand side of the box, only to fire his shot well over Speroni's goal, his claims for a corner denied.
The match ended 0-0, this is Palace's third consecutive scoreless home draw and they haven't scored in five games and with a cup tie against Man Utd looming, it may be time to get a goal.
Team News
Crystal Palace will be without long term absentees Jonathan Williams (broken leg), Lee Hills (knee) and Alex Marrow (ankle). Owen Garvan made a return from his injury on Saturday and put in a good shift. Loanee Chris Martin is likely to start after two impressive performances against Leicester & Millwall, despite having not scored yet. Loanee Dekel Keinan is unavailable as he is cup-tied by his appearance for Cardiff earlier this season.
Man United will be without Michael Owen (hamstring), whilst Chris Smalling is expected to be fully fit following an injury. Sir Alex Ferguson has said there will be a complete change from the side that drew with Newcastle at the weekend. Federico Macheda may feature as well as Darren Gibson & the Da Silva twins in contention.
Preview
After their most successful cup run in nine seasons, starting out against League Two Crawley Town and going on to defeat Middlesbrough, Wigan & Southampton, Crystal Palace face Premier League title holders Manchester United in the Carling Cup on Wednesday night. The Eagles will make the 215 mile journey north to Old Trafford to face-off against a United side that has lacked their flare as of late. With two draws in a row, one against Benfica in the Champions League last week and the other against Newcastle on Saturday the Red Devils haven't seen a win since their 1-0 win over Premier League new boys Swansea. The Swans gave them a run for their money and could've taken something from the game had their luck been in. David De Gea providing an excellent performance to keep them out. However, the doughnut-nicking Spaniard is unlikely to get a call-up in Wednesday's game as third-choice goalkeeper Ben Amos has stood between the sticks for their previous two League Cup ties, keeping a clean sheet against Leeds United & Aldershot.
This will be The Eagles' first away fixture in the competition this season having drawn Crawley, 'Boro, Wigan & So'ton all at Selhurst Park. Dougie Freedman has said:
Just one month before Christmas and, for some, it had come early as Crystal Palace faced off against Millwall at Selhurst Park in one of the most highly anticipated fixtures for fans of the respective clubs. The visitors "did the double" over The Eagles last season so revenge was in the minds of the Palace fans surrounding me as I traveled to the ground for my first match in ages. As I work for the club I am almost always working when we have home games so it was a nice change to be in the stands instead of serving behind the bar!
I'm no stranger when it comes to shouting at a match and it only took about thirty seconds for me to scream at Scannell to "break his f*cking legs!" when he went in for a challenge on a Millwall defender, earning me a chuckle from the fat bald bloke in front of me (no offence mate).
Glenn Murray's early chance had us (the fans in block D) out of our seats as the ball came across from Dean Moxey on the left, replays showing the tiniest of deflections to take it out of Murray's path.
Millwall gave Speroni a touch of the ball soon after as Jay Simpson's header was easily gathered by the Palace 'keeper. Liam Feeney on the right hand side of Millwall's attacking play, was causing trouble for Moxey all afternoon and his cross almost found 19-year-old Marquis at the back post but was just over the number 9's head.
Palace's own wing wizard, Wilfried Zaha, made a chance for himself with a little help from Chris Martin (who made is home debut in this match) who provided a back heel pass, Zaha taking on a few defenders before letting off a right footed strike that was comfortable for Millwall No.1 Steve Mildenhall.
Glenn Murray got another chance for The Eagles, a good team move and a perfectly weighted cross from Jedinak, gave Murray the ball in the box, controlling with the chest before turning to volley it, his shot was closed down by two defenders and gathered by Mildenhall. Murray showed some more acrobatics as another cross from Jedinak was headed back across goal by Chris Martin, Murray's bicycle kick kept out by the hand of Mildenhall who refused to give Murray the goal he was hunting for.
Marquis sprung onto a slip-up by Paddy McCarthy to create a chance for himself but McCarthy recovered well and with the help of Anthony Gardner was able to force the ball to Speroni for collection.
Sean Scannell with the next chance, after slipping on the edge of the box he stood back up and let off a powerful right footed strike, glancing across the face of goal, no threat to the net.
Marquis' cross to Barron gave Millwall a chance before the break but the headed effort was well gathered up by Speroni, the sides entering the interval as equals.
The second half saw The Eagles come out strongly, Moxey's cross to Murray cleared for a corner at the last second by Aston Villa loanee Shane Lowry before Wilfried Zaha's left footed strike inside the box was beaten away by Mildenhall. Zaha then set-up Scannell on the edge of the box who's scuffed shot just fizzed past the upright nearest Holmesdale's infamous Block B.
Owen Garvan's corner was almost converted by Paddy McCarthy, and probably would've been, had Paul Robinson not pulled the skipper's shirt and given away a penalty for Crystal Palace. Glenn Murray stepped up to the spot just as penalty specialist Darren Ambrose was subbed on. Murray's run up was stuttered and despite the 'keeper showing signs of going to his left, Murray went the same way as the Millwall goalie. That didn't matter though as Murray's shot was the wrong side of the post; a golden opportunity, wasted. Palace fans around me in disbelief.
Millwall's final chance came from Liam Feeney, the number 15 made his way into the right hand side of the box, only to fire his shot well over Speroni's goal, his claims for a corner denied.
The match ended 0-0, this is Palace's third consecutive scoreless home draw and they haven't scored in five games and with a cup tie against Man Utd looming, it may be time to get a goal.
Team News
Crystal Palace will be without long term absentees Jonathan Williams (broken leg), Lee Hills (knee) and Alex Marrow (ankle). Owen Garvan made a return from his injury on Saturday and put in a good shift. Loanee Chris Martin is likely to start after two impressive performances against Leicester & Millwall, despite having not scored yet. Loanee Dekel Keinan is unavailable as he is cup-tied by his appearance for Cardiff earlier this season.
Man United will be without Michael Owen (hamstring), whilst Chris Smalling is expected to be fully fit following an injury. Sir Alex Ferguson has said there will be a complete change from the side that drew with Newcastle at the weekend. Federico Macheda may feature as well as Darren Gibson & the Da Silva twins in contention.
Preview
After their most successful cup run in nine seasons, starting out against League Two Crawley Town and going on to defeat Middlesbrough, Wigan & Southampton, Crystal Palace face Premier League title holders Manchester United in the Carling Cup on Wednesday night. The Eagles will make the 215 mile journey north to Old Trafford to face-off against a United side that has lacked their flare as of late. With two draws in a row, one against Benfica in the Champions League last week and the other against Newcastle on Saturday the Red Devils haven't seen a win since their 1-0 win over Premier League new boys Swansea. The Swans gave them a run for their money and could've taken something from the game had their luck been in. David De Gea providing an excellent performance to keep them out. However, the doughnut-nicking Spaniard is unlikely to get a call-up in Wednesday's game as third-choice goalkeeper Ben Amos has stood between the sticks for their previous two League Cup ties, keeping a clean sheet against Leeds United & Aldershot.
This will be The Eagles' first away fixture in the competition this season having drawn Crawley, 'Boro, Wigan & So'ton all at Selhurst Park. Dougie Freedman has said:
"It is about the players enjoying themselves and providing the fans with a great night. It is amazing to think we're playing Man United in the last eight of the League Cup this season. Who would have thought that?"
Despite his apparent shock at the distance Palace have traveled in the last few months under Freedman, the Palace boss has shown he has the stones to be a manager, giving young players like Williams and Zaha a chance to shine in big rivalry games like Brighton.
The two sides meet for the first time since March 2005 where it was goalless. Scholes, Rooney & Cristiano Ronaldo all coming off the bench to try and change things but Gabor Kiraly stood solid to claim a clean sheet.
My CPFC line-up
Price
Clyne McCarthy (c) Gardner Parr
Wright Garvan
Zaha Scannell Ambrose
Martin
Subs: Speroni, Moxey, Ramage, Jedinak, Dikgacoi, Murray, Pedroza
Manchester United's last six:
D-D-W-W-W-W
Last time out:
Crystal Palace 0-0 Manchester United
Match Facts:
- Crystal Palace haven't scored in five consecutive games. Three of these have been 0-0.
- Manchester United are on the back of two consecutive draws 1-1 (Newcastle) and 2-2 (Benfica).
- Palace have scored an average of 1.11 goals away from home this season; conceding 1.33.
- United have scored an average of 2.71 goals at Old Trafford this season; conceding 1.42.
- Ten of The Eagles' 18 goals have come on their travels this season.
- Nineteen of The Reds' 30 goals have come at Old Trafford this season.
- The two sides have met a total of 41 times, Palace winning just six of these, United winning 26.
- Crystal Palace were the opponents back in 1990 when Sir Alex Ferguson lifted his first trophy (FA Cup) as manager of Man Utd. The sides met five years later in the 1995 FA Cup semi-finals, United also the victors then.
My Predictions:
As a Palace fan I don't like to say it, but there's no denying we're the underdogs in this one. However, we have passion and the ability to fight back and I expect us to get on the score sheet, so:
Man United 2-1 Crystal Palace
Gibson Martin
Macheda
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