January 22 2006

Iain Dowie

IAIN DOWIE insisted Andy Johnson had enhanced his England claims against high-flying Reading.

England coach Sven Goran Eriksson was at Selhurst Park to see Johnson win and convert a second half penalty.

Reading midfielder James Harper grabbed an equaliser just moments later but it took a superb stop from Marcus Hahnemann to deny Johnson a late winner.

DOWIE said: "I didn't tell him Sven was here but he can't not have been impressed.

"He was always a threat and always on the move.

"His link-up play was good, he was full of energy and drive, and he could have had four or five tonight. He's a top player."

DOWIE admitted Palace face a tough schedule in the coming weeks as they try to keep their play-off bid on track and advance in the FA Cup.

He said: "We've got a big week coming up with Southampton away followed by the FA Cup and we'll see where we are after that.

"That's 16 points from 18 for us, and that's a pleasing run. Our winning streak has been broken, so we need to go on another one.

"We've played a top team tonight and more than matched them. Man of the match for them was probably the keeper.

"I thought we were the better side and I'm a little disappointed not to get three points."