Crystal Palace Under-18s showed considerable resilience to claim a point in the derby against Brighton & Hove Albion, extending their unbeaten run to five matches in the process. The result followed three consecutive victories across all competitions for Javier Alonso’s side.
Palace’s task became significantly harder after Remi Shittu was sent off just 15 minutes into the match. The centre-back brought down Brighton forward Finn Dzekawong outside the penalty area after losing possession, leaving the Young Eagles to play the majority of the game with 10 men.
Brighton controlled much of the remainder of the first half, but goalkeeper Lucca Benetton kept Palace level with saves from Dzekawong and Christopher Condy. The hosts eventually took the lead 10 minutes after the interval when Zachary Brennan found the top corner with a long-range strike.
Despite Brighton’s numerical advantage, Palace remained in the contest and drew level shortly before the 75-minute mark. Donte Martin carried the ball forward from halfway before releasing Ajean-Ray Greaves behind the home defence, allowing the Palace captain to finish calmly beyond the goalkeeper.
The Eagles then defended deeply to protect the point, with Brighton unable to find a decisive second goal. Benetton continued to provide security in goal, while a late missed chance from Condy ensured Palace left with a deserved draw.
Palace were forced into two changes before kick-off, with Alfie Mulvenna and Daniel Owoade unavailable after receiving red cards in the previous match. Remi Shittu and Nat Kalembo came into the starting line-up. The Under-18s return to home action next weekend against Aston Villa in the English U18 Premier League Cup.
