September 23 2003

Andy Johnson

Two Andy Johnson penalties helped Crystal Palace to a 2-1 Carling Cup victory at home to Doncaster.

He gave Palace the lead after 17 minutes when Darren Powell was fouled in the penalty box and AJ put the spotkick away.

He doubled that lead eight minutes later, again from the spot. Hayden Mullins sent Johnson through and his strike was parried by Doncaster keeper Andy Warrington.

But the ball rebounded to Neil Shipperley whose shot was saved, and as Johnson looked to go round Warrington and score, he was brought down by John Doolan for a second penalty. Johnson stepped up and scored.

Ben Watson had the first opportunity of the game after six minutes but scuffed Gary Borrowdale's left-wing cross straight to the keeper.

Then moments later, Johnson's good run down the left resulted in him shooting wide of the goal.

He put the home side ahead after 17 minutes but on 21 minutes, Palace were relieved when Gregg Blundell's shot crashed against the crossbar from Michael McIndoe's centre.

The Eagles went 2-1 up on 25 minutes before Third Division Doncaster pulled a goal back from Blundell two minutes after the break from 18 yards.

Gareth Williams had a header saved while Blundell twice and Ricky Ravenhill had chances to equalise for Donny. But Palace held out and are in the hat for the third round.

Palace: Berthelin, Powell, Mullins (Fleminng 72), Butterfield, Borrowdale, Williams (Riihilahti 69), Derry, Watson, Hughes (Routledge 45), Johnson, Shipperley.

Subs not used: Cronin, Soares.

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