Huddersfield Town 1 - 2 Palace

Saturday August 26 2000 - League

Neil Ruddock's winning goal gave Crystal Palace their first league win of the season in a rare away win over Hudersfield.

Town took the lead after 25 minutes when skipper Chris Lucketti's 30 yard ball for striker Clyde Wijnhard missed him and went into the back of the net past Stuart Taylor in goal.

Palace went into the break level as Julian Gray netted his first goal for the club from a Clinton Morrison cross, a minute before half-time.

Both sides had chances to go into the lead before Ruddock struck after 51 minutes after good work by Jamie Pollock on the right.

With 20 minutes left, substitute Leon McKenzie won a penalty with his first touch, but Hayden Mullins' spot-kick was easily saved by Vaesen.

Tommy Black was thwarted by Veasen and McKenzie missed an open goal at the end, but the points were safe.

Post match comments

A delighted Alan Smith said: "I was extremely proud of the lads today especially after last season's 7-1 thrashing, I was extremely pleased.

"I thought we were outstanding in the second half. Some of the younger boys are not quite sure of themselves yet and it's quite daunting coming to a ground like this having not won here for so long and facing a big name manager.

"I think we are gradually progressing in each match we play. I have changed the diet of the players and the training routines and if we hadn't won today then maybe the players begin to doubt you.

"I'd like to give them a day off tomorrow but I can't and they'll be in for training again."

Huddersfield Town manager Steve Bruce said: "We struggled today after last week's excellent performance. We were not much to shout about today.

"Nothing worked for us although we tried to change things around. I don't think there is a lack of spirit but we need to do more when we are chasing a game.

"I thought we were comfortable in defence but I've no real options going forward."

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