Hayes Lane upset leaves Palace with questions to answer
Crystal Palace’s preparations for the new season suffered a notable setback as Bromley inflicted a 3-0 defeat at Hayes Lane on Saturday. The result was unexpected given Palace’s top-level status and the number of first-team players used during the match, but Bromley — promoted last season — produced a clinical performance.
Palace manager Pierre Sage selected sizeable options across both halves, with starting names including Walter Benitez, Jaydee Canvot, Romain Esse, Will Hughes and Justin Devenny. Palace created multiple openings yet failed to convert them into goals.
- Bromley took the lead shortly after the hour when Victor Adeboyejo lobbed Joe Whitworth following a long goal kick.
- Adeboyejo then scored from the penalty spot after a foul on Ethon Archer, securing his brace.
- Nicke Kabamba completed the scoring with a headed finish late in the game.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| ~60 mins | Adeboyejo lobbed Joe Whitworth (1-0) |
| Shortly after | Adeboyejo penalty (2-0) |
| Late | Nicke Kabamba header (3-0) |
Palace’s attacking intent produced several notable chances. Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, returning from a loan spell, went clear but tangled with the ball at the vital moment. Matheus Franca also beat the goalkeeper only to miscontrol his final touch. After the interval Sage made wholesale changes — introducing players such as Eddie Nketiah, Borna Sosa, Brennan Johnson, Cheick Doucoure and Tyrick Mitchell — but those alterations could not alter the outcome.
“Sometimes pre-season games
The manager of Bromley, former Palace coach Andy Woodman, called for level-headedness after the final whistle, urging supporters and players not to over-interpret the result.
For Palace, the scoreline will be a reminder that creating chances is not the same as finishing them; for Bromley it was a statement that they can trouble higher-level opposition on their day. With pre-season fixtures primarily designed to build fitness and sharpen tactics, the result is instructive but not definitive. Supporters in Derby and beyond will watch how Palace address their finishing in the coming matches, while Bromley will take confidence from a polished, opportunistic display at Hayes Lane.
