Crystal Palace’s horror run finally over as Brighton beaten in tight Premier League clash
Crystal Palace claimed a crucial 1-0 triumph over south coast rivals Brighton at the Amex Stadium on Sunday, bringing an end to their frustrating 12-match winless spell.
Ismaila Sarr proved the difference between the two sides, netting the solitary goal shortly after the hour mark with a composed finish.
The Senegalese forward latched onto a pass from substitute Evann Guessand before finishing beyond Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
It was Palace’s first effort on target in what had been a largely uninspiring contest between two teams struggling for form.
The strike took Sarr’s tally to 10 goals across all competitions this season, providing Oliver Glasner’s side with a vital three points.
The opening 45 minutes offered little in the way of entertainment, with neither side able to produce meaningful attacking play.
Brighton’s Maxim de Cuyper registered the only shot on target before half-time, though his effort from distance lacked any real conviction.
Crystal Palace’s wait for a first win since December is finally over, with the Eagles beating rivals Brighton 1-0 at the Amex Stadium on Sunday
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Seagulls skipper Lewis Dunk came closest to breaking the deadlock, twice going close with headers from Pascal Gross deliveries.
The defender first directed a header over the crossbar from a corner before failing to hit the target from a subsequent free-kick 15 minutes later.
Palace showed signs of improvement as the interval approached, yet Adam Wharton fired wide from outside the box.
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Sarr also squandered an opportunity, slicing his shot off target whilst being challenged by Dunk.
Opportunities remained scarce until Sarr produced his moment of quality just past the 60-minute mark, beating Verbruggen to secure what would prove the winning goal.
Brighton sought an immediate response through teenage forward Charalampos Kostoulas, but Palace keeper Dean Henderson stood firm to preserve his side’s advantage.
Fabian Hurzeler’s hosts were unable to find a route back into the match, extending their disappointing league form.
The Seagulls have now failed to secure a top-flight victory since their success against relegation-threatened Burnley on 3 January.
Ismaila Sarr scored the only goal of the game for Crystal Palace against Brighton
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PA
For Palace, the result represents a welcome return to winning ways after a difficult run of fixtures.
Glasner’s men can now look ahead with renewed confidence following this hard-fought derby success on the south coast.
There were contrasting scenes at the full-time whistle, too.
Palace players were jubilant, with Dean Henderson sliding on his knees and enthusiastically kissing the badge on his jersey.
Brighton fans, however, booed their team off.
