13 May 2013

Palace into playoff final

London - Wilfried Zaha scored both goals as Crystal Palace beat Brighton and Hove Albion 2-0 on Monday to reach the Championship (second tier) playoff final where they will face Watford.

The two sides were level 0-0 after Friday's first leg and it took until the 69th minute of the second leg for the visitors to break the deadlock.

Zaha, who is joining Premier League champions Manchester United in July, sent Palace a step closer to joining him in the top flight with a header from close range after a superb cross from substitute Yannick Bolasie.

The Ivory Coast-born forward made sure of the win with a fine left-footed strike into the roof of the net two minutes from time.

Palace, who finished fifth this season behind fourth-placed Brighton, are seeking a return to the Premier League for the first time since they were relegated in 2005, while manager Ian Holloway last managed in the top flight with Blackpool in 2011.

Watford booked their place in the May 27 final at Wembley on Sunday when they beat Leicester City 3-1 on the day for a 3-2 aggregate victory.

Champions Cardiff City and runners-up Hull City won automatic promotion to the Premier League.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred

Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.

Join News24 today

description

username

Show Comments ()