Crystal Palace Under-18s extended their winning run to three matches in all competitions by defeating Reading 5-3 in the U18 Premier League South at the Academy on Saturday.
The Young Eagles produced an outstanding first-half display, with Donte Martin completing a second consecutive hat-trick alongside goals from Makai Bernard-Ferguson and Jacob Fasida. Palace went into the interval five goals ahead, having followed Alonso’s game plan and taken their opportunities.
The match became far more difficult after the break. Reading scored three times, while Palace were reduced to nine players following the dismissals of Daniel Owoade and Alfie Mulvenna. Alonso was pleased with the result but felt the response after half-time highlighted the need for greater focus and collective discipline.
The head coach addressed the squad in the dressing room after the final whistle, stressing that the players must continue performing with the same intensity regardless of the scoreline. He also said the team needed to understand how to operate together when playing with nine men, viewing the experience as an important lesson for their development.
Saturday’s result followed a 3-0 U18 Premier League Cup win over Leeds United and a 6-2 league success away to Ipswich Town. The two consecutive league victories have moved Palace up to 10th in the Premier League South, with Alonso pointing to improved confidence, tactical understanding and finishing as key factors behind the recent upturn.
Martin’s latest treble took his tally to two hat-tricks in two matches, but Alonso also highlighted the forward’s wider contribution and leadership within the group. Palace will aim to continue their progress when they travel to Brighton next Saturday, with the derby scheduled for an 11:00 BST kick-off and available to watch live on Palace TV+.
