Crystal Palace Under-18s head coach Javier Alonso is demanding a stronger return from his side when the Young Eagles travel to Arsenal in the U18 Premier League South on Saturday. The match kicks off at 11:00 BST and will be shown live on Palace TV+.
Palace have shown signs of progress in recent weeks, despite remaining without a win. After a 4-1 defeat by Southampton, Alonso’s team pushed Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa before producing an impressive display against league leaders Tottenham Hotspur last weekend. Donte Martin’s two goals put the Eagles 2-0 ahead, but Spurs recovered to win 4-2.
Alonso felt Palace had an opportunity to take control of the contest after establishing their early lead. The visitors created chances and defended effectively in the first half, but were unable to add a third goal shortly after the interval. Tottenham then reduced the deficit from the penalty spot before completing their comeback, providing what Alonso described as an important lesson for his young players.
Despite the results, the head coach remains encouraged by the development of his squad. He believes the players are improving both individually and as a group, while also pointing to competitive displays against Forest, Villa and Tottenham as evidence that better outcomes could follow if Palace become more clinical. Alonso was also pleased with the progress of the Under-16s and Under-17s, with several younger players—including Nat Kalembo, Arthur O’Keefe, Nas Campbell, Dominic Wright, Ja’Shaun Christmas and Fortune—having stepped up to the Under-18s.
Toby Williams has provided another positive moment for the Academy after his spectacular strike from inside his own half against West Ham was voted Palace’s August Goal of the Month. Alonso praised the finish after Williams noticed the goalkeeper’s position and attempted an ambitious effort from distance.
The Under-18s have trained well during the week as they prepare for another demanding fixture. Palace TV+ coverage of the Arsenal match begins at 10:45 BST, with live commentary also available through the Academy’s X page. A match report and reaction will follow after the final whistle, while highlights and extended reaction will be released on Palace TV+.
