A general view of the ground ahead of the match Crystal Palace Women v London City Lionesses, Women’s Championship football match, Hayes Lane Stadium, London, UK - 12 Sep 2020 Photo: Chloe Knott for The FA

Honours even as Crystal Palace and London City Lionesses battle to derby draw

Crystal Palace drew for the second time this season in their first home game as they held visitors London City Lionesses to a 1-1 draw.

Palace started brightly and their early dominance was rewarded when Lizzie Waldie headed home from a corner within three minutes. London City Lionesses almost had an immediate response when Liz Ejupi’s shot hit the underside of the crossbar and bounced just outside of the goal.

As the half progressed, London City Lionesses had more possession and drew some good saves from Chloe Morgan in the Palace goal. The home side continued to press with some good link-up play between Coral-Jade Haines, Cherelle Khassal and Bianca Baptiste though they tested Shae Yanez in the London City Lionesses goal less. Just after the half hour mark, Ejupi finally found the back of the net for the visitors, beating Morgan from close range to make it 1-1.

Just before half-time, Palace were forced into their first change as Baptiste picked up an injury and was replaced by former London City Lionesses player Amber Gaylor.

In the second half, as Palace tired, the visitors became more dominant with The Eagles restricted to few chances. Both sides were less disciplined as each pushed for a winner and both keepers were called into action. Ultimately, neither side found the breakthrough and the game finished 1-1.

It was an evenly matched encounter, with a draw being a fair result. Both sides played on the front foot, pressing forward. Palace were strong in defence but wasteful in front of goal. Keeper Morgan was named the sponsors’ Player of the Match after a string of fine saves whilst Haines was named Club’s Player of the Game.

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