Crystal Palace Under-21s suffered their first defeat of the 2026/27 campaign on Saturday, losing 1-0 to Blackburn Rovers at Sutton’s Borough Sports Ground. The result ended Darren Powell’s side’s unbeaten start in Premier League 2.
Palace controlled much of the opening period and created several opportunities, but could not convert their pressure into a goal. Benji Casey struck the posts with a penalty before Seb Williams saw a second spot-kick saved just before half-time. Joe Gibbard and Dean Benamar also went close, while Blackburn goalkeeper Taylor produced several important interventions.
The Young Eagles continued to threaten after the interval, with Gibbard, Adler Nascimento and Joél Drakes-Thomas all involved in Palace’s attacking efforts. Harry Lee also made a key one-on-one save to keep the scores level, but the match changed in the 70th minute when Taha Majni was shown a straight red card.
Blackburn took advantage almost immediately. Harvey Higgins reacted quickest after an inswinging corner was headed back across the area, turning the ball home to put the visitors ahead. Palace continued to search for an equaliser despite being down to 10 men, but Taylor denied Gibbard late on and Blackburn survived further pressure in the closing stages.
George King returned from injury to captain Palace, while 15-year-old Nat Kalembo made his second appearance for the Under-21s. The Young Eagles will now look to respond on Tuesday, when they travel to face Plymouth Argyle in the EFL Trophy.
