Vaughan edges Palace past Boro

05 February 2011 19:00
James Vaughan's deflected strike proved the difference as Crystal Palace edged out their npower Championship relegation rivals Middlesbrough 1-0. The striker, on loan from Everton, collected the ball and dribbled past a couple of Boro defenders before unleashing a shot that took a deflection and nestled in the net to give Dougie Freedman his first win since being named officially as Palace manager. The Eagles had chances to kill the game off through Jermaine Easter and Darren Ambrose, and though they were made to hang on in the final stages, they managed to claim victory. Boro were a touch unlucky to come away with nothing as they dominated possession and saw Julio Arca hit the post in the first half. However, their failure to create any meaningful chances came back to haunt them as they saw their six-match unbeaten run come to an end. Although Palace stayed in 21st place in the league, they moved four points clear of the drop zone.

Source: PA