September 18 2002

Julian Gray

Julian Gray made his comeback from injury as the reserves beat Cambridge United away 1-0.

He came through the full 90 minutes and could be pushing for a place in the starting line-up for Palace's visit to Watford on Saturday.

Cambridge had the first chance of the game when Kevin Winkworth volleyed wide after 15 minutes and a few minutes later Winkworth's shot was deflected wide for a corner following good build-up play.

Gray was causing the U's defence problems and he had a shot saved onto the post by the keeper on 22.

Against the run of play, Palace scored in the 32nd minute. Tommy Black bombed down the wing and pulled the ball back for Andrejs Rubins to net from close range.

In the second half, Winkworth again had a chance to score for the U's but his effort went staright to Lance Cronin in goal.

On 55, Palace went down to 10 men as Robert Smith, who had been booked in the first half, was shown a second yellow and given his marching orders by the ref for lashing out at Adam Tann.

Despite being a man down, Palace did not let the home side back into the game and could have added to the score.

Palace: Cronin, Gibson, Borrowdale, Smith, Antwi, Frampton, Nabil (Surey 46), Watson, Rubins (Dobson 86), Black, Gray.

Sub not used: Julius.