o After a busy period of fixtures and some terrible weather, the Selhurst pitch finally had some rest last week.

An average of two matches every week at Selhurst Park had damaged the surface.

Head Groundsman John Plummer was pleased the pitch could be treated after 20 weeks of solid football.

He said: "The eight day break was very important, the pitch has been used non stop since the start of the season.

"The Christmas period also had an effect on the turf as it was frozen and thawed on a number of occasions."

"We have just fertillised and overseeded the pitch. Three of us are working on the surface and we hope to see an improvement in the next three to four weeks."

o The Palace Academy had two fixtures at the weekend, the U-17's and U-19's were both in action against Arsenal.

The U-17's lost their match away at Arsenal 2-0, but were unlucky not to get something from the game. Murray Jones selected two triallists, goalkeeper Christopher Neal and defender James Dalton.

The U-19's drew their match 2-2 at the Beckenham Training Ground with England Youth international Wayne Routledge scoring two goals.

Triallist Tony Smith made his debut in goal.

Murray Jones was pleased with the two performances: "The lads competed well in both matches and did themselves justice against strong opposition."

o The Reserve team play Leatherhead in the Surrey Senior Cup on Wednesday. The match is at Leatherhead and kicks off at 7.30pm.

o The Palace January sale ends on Thursday and this is the last chance to take advantage of the 20 per cent discount at all club shops.

o A new SMS Text alert service is now available to Crystal Palace supporters. The SMS Text alerts deliver Breaking News and Match Comments from the inside the club. SMS alerts are available for various flashes including scores, goals, cards and line-ups.

Terry Byfield

Communications Manager