Crystal Palace U18 0 Sunderland U18 1
Neville Pilkington
Sunderland battled to take all three points with a determined, well-organised display at the Palace training ground in South London this afternoon.
The visitors started well and Nathan Thomas shot just wide but Palace hit back to force a good save from Sunderland keeper Jordan Pickford.
Jordan Laidler was unlucky when he went very close following good play between Jordan Lavender and James Brace. It was Brace who showed quick thinking to hit a free kick inches wide but Palace were always dangerous on the counter attack.
Palace had lots of pace throughout the game but Kevin Ball's lads kept the ball well to deny them possession for long periods.
The dominance finally paid off in the 76th minute. A Palace defender handled in the area and then pulled Laidler back when the Sunderland man went for the loose ball.
The referee allowed the player to stay on the field although he was technically the last man, awarding the spot kick for the handball which Laidler easily tucked away to the keeper's right.
It was enough to claim the points but only a tremendous last-minute save by Pickford from a set piece ensured the deserved victory.
Coach Kevin Ball said: "We kept the ball well and it was a good win."
Sunderland: Pickford, Reece Noble, McNamee, Lavender, Callaghan, Martin, Brace, Mitchell, Honeyman (Thomas, 14), Laidler, Lawson (Mandron, 22).
