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Crystal Palace claimed a 1–0 Premier League victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium on Sunday.
A decisive 61st-minute goal from Ismaïla Sarr earned the winners a crucial three points in the M23 derby.
Brighton went into the match hoping to build momentum after a recent draw, with ambitions to push toward European qualification despite a dip in form, while Crystal Palace arrived under pressure to end a long winless run and move clear of the relegation zone.
According to the Guardian, the first half was a tight and scrappy affair, with both teams struggling to create clear chances as midfield battles dominated and attacking moves routinely broke down before testing either keeper.
Brighton looked the more threatening side at times, probing down the wings and pressing Palace’s defenders, but they were repeatedly denied by disciplined defending and timely interventions by Palace’s back line.
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Just after the hour mark, Palace broke the deadlock when Sarr capitalised on a defensive mistake, clinically finishing a quick counterattack to send the travelling supporters into raptures and give the visitors the lead.
Brighton responded by pushing players forward in search of an equaliser, introducing fresh legs and increasing tempo, but they struggled to fashion a clear opportunity against a resilient Palace defence.
As the match entered the final stages, Palace sat deeper to protect their advantage, with goalkeeper Dean Henderson making key saves to deny late Brighton pressure and preserve the lead.
The result is a much-needed boost for Palace, lifting them nine points clear of the relegation zone and offering momentum in their fight to stay up, while Brighton’s hopes of creeping toward the top half suffered another blow.
Contributed by Emmanuel Lungu
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