CRYSTAL Palace Ladies’ Priory School went down to a narrow 1-0 home defeat at the hands of Worthing College.

The first half was a scrappy affair with both sides struggling to keep possession.

Worthing College began to look stronger after 20 minutes and were looking good with their combination play as the team from Orpington seemed to be chasing shadows.

However, in and around the area, CPLC Priory managed to get in a last tackle or clearance and the team in blue were unable to create any clear goal scoring opportunities.

Against the run of play, CPLFC Priory forced a number of corners, two of which resulted in goalmouth scrambles, but they could not get the final touch to forced it over the line.

The deadlock was broken on 35 minutes when a pass over the top was allowed to bounce.

It looked as if the danger would be cleared, but slight hesitation allowed the Worthing number nine to nip between the defence and goalkeeper to toe poke home from eight yards.

Half-time came and went and although Priory went hunting for a goal, they could not reach their usual standards of play.

Chances were limited for both teams, but Katie Duffy made a great save when the CPLFC Priory defence was beaten.

In the final 15 minutes, CPLFC gained a second wind and pinned their opponents back.

The introduction of Jackson supplied a new attacking edge from right back and Jackson and Torrey both played in Louise Duffy down the right, but her excellent crosses were missed by inches by the CPLFC Priory strikers.

Crystal Palace Ladies FC’s development centre aims to provide a strong educational curriculum for Year 12 and Year 13 students, as well as a vibrant football development programme consisting of a comprehensive coaching and playing timetable.

Pupils interested in enrolling to the development centre next academic year should contact Neil Miller, Deputy Head, The Priory School, Tintagle Road, Orpington, Kent, BR4 4LG, or call 01689 819219 or e-mail neil.miller@priory.bromley.sch.uk

An opening evening will also take place at 7pm on November 6 at The Priory School, Tintagel Road, Orpington Kent, BR4 5LG.