Palace sign off in style

Palace rounded off their home fixtures for this season with a fine performance and a deserved victory over play off contenders Preston at Selhurst Park this afternoon. Preston should probably have taken the lead when in the 4th minute Clyde Wijnhard headed wide with the goal at his mercy. this proved to be the visitors only real threat of the afternoon as Palace at last found some form in front of their own fans. Second half goals from substitute David Hopkin with a 25 yard screamer, following some excellent work by Andrejs Rubins was followed by a first goal at Selhurst for Ade Akinbiyi who prodded home from 3 yards following good work again from the lively Rubins. All the Palace players put in decent performances, apart from the disappointing Clinton Morrison, who appeared to have his mind on World Cup duty. It was particularly pleasing to see the return of Tony Popovic who added much needed stability to the Palace rearguard, and the late introduction of Wayne Routledge provided some insight into what should turn out to be a long run of first team football for the youngster. Next week's final match of the season sees Palace visit high flying West Bromwich Albion, a match which could see the Baggies win an automatic promotion place, but will at least guarantee a play off place.