Crystal Palace Ladies FC

The Blues dropped their first points in the league this season in an entertaining game against old foes AFC Wimbledon.

In the first game back after the Christmas break the Blues looked sluggish in the early exchanges and their flowing, passing brand of football was missing.

AFC Wimbledon in contrast had learnt their lessons from the last encounter between the two teams and had set up with a strong defence and energetic midfield that caused problems to the Blues all game.

Totally against the run of play the Blues took the lead. An inch perfect pass from Emma released Keeley who held her nerve to score. There was some confusion as to if the ball had actually gone in but the AFC Wimbledon manager agreed that the ball had gone in and the goal was given. It was a wonderful display of sportsmanship and good to see.

Sarah shot wide moments later and Caloe was unlucky when her shot went just past the post moments later but it was AFC who scored next with a fierce shot from just inside the box.

H/T Blues 1 Yellows 1

Halftime had seen the girls given the hair dryer from manager Joe Fazzino who demanded better from his team and the girls flew out of the traps in the second half with more determination and pride.

Both sides created half chances without ever really going close and as the minutes ticked by it seemed as though it would take an individual error or a genius piece of skill to determine the winner.

AFC Wimbledon had a great chance to score when their forward made a breakthrough but Maisie was quick off her line and brave in making the save to deny a winner and the Blues couldn't quite capitalise on a few half chances that fell their way late on.

After the match manager Joe Fazzino said "It was a fair result and I'm proud of my girls for their second half performance. Every team that we play will raise their game against us and it is up to the team to be prepared for that. On a positive note we are still unbeaten in the league and know that we have our destiny in our own hands. We have a huge game next week against Meadow Sports in the quarter finals of the County Cup and I'm asking for as many supporters as possible to get down to the game to cheer the team on to hopefully a semi final place."

A special mention for Amy who had a tremendous game in a number of positions on the field.