Palace secure survival

30 April 2011 18:30
Crystal Palace secured their npower Championship status for next season after drawing 1-1 with Hull. The Tigers saw their play-off dream end over the Easter weekend and they failed to sign off their home campaign in style as youngster Ibra Sekajja marked his Palace debut with a late leveller. Anthony Gerrard put the Tigers ahead in the first half but, after coming on as a substitute, Sekajja netted instantly to earn his side a share of the spoils. The goal mattered little, though, as Palace would have ensured survival even had they lost after Sheffield United could only manage a draw against Barnsley. It completes an excellent debut season for manager Dougie Freedman, who took the reins in November with the Eagles sitting second bottom. Their situation looked perilous at that stage but, having lost just seven of the ensuing 21 games, they have staved off the threat of relegation with one game remaining.

Source: PA