March 31 2007

Clinton Morrison

Crystal Palace lost 2-1 to Sheffield Wednesday at Selhurst Park, reports Peter Gillman.

They went down to a late Wednesday strike after a goal from Clinton Morrison on 80 minutes appeared to have secured a draw.

It was disappointing result, exposing the Eagles’ claims to be worth a playoff place. Palace were defeated by a mid-table side who displayed more flair and finishing power.

Palace were the better side in the first half. Morrison had three clear openings but could not beat ex-Palace loanee Iain Turner.

Jamie Scowcroft missed the best chance of all when he headed narrowly wide from a searing McAnuff cross. At the other end, Gabor Kiraly saved well from Wednesday number nine Maclean.

Wednesday began the second half strongly and it was no surprise when they went ahead on 56 minutes. Paul Ifill lost the ball on the left and Brunt fired in a cross which Burton headed home.

Palace lost their way and Tudgay wasted three good chances in ten minutes. Then Palace rallied and on 79 minutes won a freekick when Ifill was brought down on the right by number three Gilbert.

Mark Kennedy’s cross from the edge of the area was headed in by Morrison from close range.

Wednesday continued to press and won the points on 84 minutes. Leon Cort intercepted a cross but sliced his clearance. The ball rebounded off the bar with Kiraly stranded and the ever-dangerous Tudgay claimed the goal.

Palace did not come close in the remaining stages of the game. Morrison made a vociferous penalty claim for handball in the final seconds but ref Hall was unmoved.

Palace: Kiraly; Lawrence, Cort, Hudson, Borrowdale; Soares, Fletcher, Watson (Ifill 52), McAnuff (Kuqi 59); Morrison, Scowcroft (Kennedy 71).

Not used: Speroni, Butterfield.

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