April 13 2002

Rubins had a good game

Crystal Palace ended their final home game of the season on a high after defeating a disappointing Preston side 2-0.

Preston desperately needed the win to claim a place in the play-offs, but the defeat leaves their season over.

A poor first half was followed by a much better second with Andrejs Rubins as the best player on the pitch. He assisted both goals. Goalscorers were substitute David Hopkin and Ade Akinbiyi.

The visitors could have taken an early lead when Clyde Wijnhard headed wide from close range from Richard Cresswell's cross on the right and Alex Kolinko just did enough to put him off.

He was then called into action to save from Gareth Ainsworth and Paul McKenna in the space of a minute. In the 16th minute, Cresswell had a header clear the crossbar.

Michael Keane shot wide and Ainsworth forced Kolinko into another save in the 24th minute. All Kolinko's save were pretty easy for him.

Palace looked more assured at the back, thanks largely to the presence of Tony Popovic, back from a long injury lay-off. Dean Austin contiuned his good form with a very good display along side him.

Julian Gray had to limp off injured in the early stages of the second half and Rubins came on and was very impressive. He will be looking to stake a regular place in the side for next season after his performance today.

Palace looked a threat when he had the ball but did not threaten Tepi Moilanen's goal.

In the second half, Hopkin replaced Andrew Frampton and had an immediate impact 10 minutes into the second period. Rubins put him through at the edge of the box and his drive sailed into the top left corner.

Clinton Morrison, who had a quiet game and obviously trying to stay injury free for the World Cup, had a goal disallowed from an Akinbiyi cross on the right.

But he reversed roles and set up Akinbiyi who couldn't miss to score from three yards with a low cross on the left. Akinbiyi ran to the Holmesdale and took his top off in celebration.

Promising England under-17 star star Wayne Routledge was given a run-out for the last five minutes, replacing Rubins who went off to a rousing reception.