August 26 2014

Dwight Gayle (Photo: Andy Roberts)

Dwight Gayle scores a first half hattrick as Crystal Palace sweep Walsall aside in the second round of the Capital One Cup.

Keith Millen made a number of changes to the starting line up, opting for a front partnership of Gayle and Glenn Murray.

Julian Speroni was completely rested, with Wayne Hennessey taking his place and Chris Kettings settling for an appearance on the subs bench.

Gayle opening the scoring after only 7 minutes, beating the offside trap and rifling home.

On 25 minutes Gayle curled home a free kick to double Palace's advantage, and then bagged his hattrick on 41 minutes with another powerful shot.

Brede Hangeland replaced Damien Delaney at half time.

Shortly after the restart Walsall's Ashley Grimes came close to getting a goal back, but his effort hit the post, rebounded off Hennessey, and bounced away to safety.

Millen gave a second half appearance to youngster Jake Gray, making his first senior debut.

Owen Garvan also made a surprise reappearance, replacing Jonny Williams after 75 minutes.

Palace held out for the clean sheet and the victory, which will see them in the hat for the third round of the Capital One Cup.

2014/15 squad stats

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