March 9 2010

Selhurst Park

Crystal Palace's hopes of avoiding the drop were dealt a blow after a 1-0 defeat to Bristol City.

Chris Iwelumo's spectacular goal proved the difference between the two sides in a dour contest at Selhurst Park.

Palace had appeals for a penalty turned down when Louis Carey appeared to have handled Johanes Ertl's shot in the 11th minute.

Lacklustre finishing from Bradley Orr, Paul Hartley and Iwelumo ensured the first half ended goalless on a bitterly cold night in South London.

Iwelumo had a half effort on goal and Orr warmed the hands of Julian Speroni with a long-range strike.

But Alan Lee should have netted for the hosts but diverted his head narrowly past the post when in a great position to score.

And just as the game was heading for a draw, Scotland forward Iwelumo struck with a brilliant winner 17 minutes from time. Liam Fontaine's throw-in found Iwelumo just inside the box and he turned to rocket a volley into the back of the net past the helpless Speroni.

Jamal Campbell-Ryce almost added another goal, and despite the introduction of Neil Danns and Stern John as substitutes, the Eagles failed to test City keeper Dean Gerken.

It was only Bristol City's second win from 11 matches and the result leaves Palace outside the relegation zone on goal difference.

Palace: Speroni, Clyne, Hill, Lawrence, Butterfield, Ambrose (Danns 67), Derry, Carle (John 81), Ertl, Andrew, Lee.

Not Used: Manns, Scannell, Hills, Djilali, N'Diaye.

Bristol City: Gerken, Orr, Fontaine, Carey, Nyatanga, Johnson, Hartley, Skuse, Maynard (McAllister 90), Iwelumo (Akinde 86), Campbell-Ryce.

Not Used: Henderson, Clarkson, Williams, Sproule, Haynes.

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