Down but not yet out...

Crystal Palace 1 v 2 Bristol City
Championship Play-Off Semi-Final 1st Leg - Selhurst Park Stadium. Att: 22,869
Saturday, 10th May 2008

High hopes of taking an unassailable lead to Ashton Gate for the 2nd leg were dashed when Bristol City harried and hustled Palace throughout this enthralling game. Having lost by 2 goals on their league visit they made sure they didn't let the home side play and got their reward over the 90 minutes.

Bristol City took the lead with a well worked goal from a free-kick which found its way to Louis Carey and he curled the ball into the far corner. The goal spurred on the home fans and in turn Palace who came out looking for goals. But they did not come and tension began to mount with them not wanting to go further behind.

Jose Fonte was pushed up front and it was him that won the penalty after being tripped in the area. The 87th minute spot kick was converted by Ben Watson and, on balance, a draw would have been considered a good outcome from this difficult game. But it was Bristol who would have the last laugh in this first game with a spectacular 30 yard shot from David Noble that soared into the top corner.

So, a goal down going into the 2nd leg is not where they would want to be but with away goals not counting double it remains merely a win by the odd goal that Palace need to take the game into extra time and penalties whilst anything better will see them on their way to Wembley.