Crewe Alexandra - 0
Crystal Palace - 1 (Jansen 65.)

Crystal Palace took this hard earned win at Crewe Alexandra. Both sides put forth a classic performance, giving their supporters a respectful match. However, the Eagles emerged victorious on Matthew Jansen's effort. Jansen was returning from Under-21 national duty.

The Palace lead came on the 65th minute. Simon Rodger crossed the ball for Neil Shipperley, who flicked it on to Jansen. The Palace supporters on hand showed their appreciation for their side's effort.

The first half saw the clubs challenge one another. Palace's best chance came on the 15th minute when Crewe defender Matthew Wicks missed a clearance and Jason Kearton made a point blank save.

Crewe's chance came when Rodney Jack sent in a low cross which Jermaine Wright met and fired on to see it deflected. Rodger sent on multiple searching balls for the Eagles and the side saw numerous goalmouth incidents. Herman Hreidarsson shot well on a Rodger corner, but it was cleared off of the line from Kenny Lunt. Crewe's James Colin then sent one over the bar from six yards out

Palace came out of half-time geared up and showed their experience over their challengers. After Jansen put the Eagles on top, Crewe substitute Colin Little shot just wide and then Jack shot one on from 30 yards out, which was deflected.

The Eagles emerged the winner and took three points in this challenging match. Palace has shown that the lineup is improving. Despite winning on just one goal, the team united on the pitch and the defence was much better. Jansen again proved worth his long-term contract, making the Eagles' supporters proud to cheer for him.

Jonathan Collura

Crewe: Kearton. D.Wright. S.Smith. Wicks. Unsworth. Collins (Little 74). J.Wright. Johnson. Jack. Lunt. Rivers.
Not Used: Charnock. P.Smith.
Booked: J.Wright.

Palace: Digby. Austin. Smith. Amsalem. Rodger. Linighan. Lombardo. Hreidarsson. Shipperley (Bent 81). Jansen (Morrison 89). Mullins.
Not Used: Burton.
Booked: Digby. Austin.

Attendance: 4.977
Referee: Mr P. Robinson (Hull)