BASKETBALL: Defeats at the hands of Chester and Newcastle means Palace's tally for the season is just 25.

And with five wins to remember, Palace fans could be forgiven for hoping for a quick end to the league campaign. But once again Palace showed they have the potential to mix it with the best.

Chester's visit on Saturday provided Palace with their best chance of victory, but Chester took control of a tight game.

Then Palace went into Sunday's clash needing a miracle against high-flying Newcastle .

For the first 40 minutes a major upset seemed to be on the cards, but Palace ran out of steam at the end, giving Newcastle their fifth straight win.

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