Schlupp on scoresheet as Palace halt losing streak – and finish 14th in Premier League

A Jeffrey Schlupp goal ensured Crystal Palace did not extend their losing run to eight as they ended the season with a 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur.

Schlupp cancelled out an early Harry Kane strike and the Eagles had the better of the play throughout – but could not manage a late goal. Roy Hodgson’s side end the campaign 14th on 43 points – their lowest finish since 2017.

Palace had the better of the opening stages but seemed susceptible to a counter-attack, and that is how Kane gave Spurs the lead inside 15 minutes.

Giovani Lo Celso fed the England forward on the left-hand side of the penalty area and the 26-year-old took a touch to create space before finishing low to Guaita’s left.

Lucas Moura almost netted a second midway through the half but having wriggled free of several challenges and rounded Guaita, he was too far wide, and James McCarthy was on hand to clear as the ball rolled along the goal-line.

Palace youngster Tyrick Mitchell was making his second-successive start and grew into the game. He produced two dangerous crosses in the first half, the second one was met by Joel Ward but his header was too soft.

The Eagles had played well but rarely created anything in the final third but were level 10 minutes into the second half. Scott Dann headed down a corner to Ayew, whose scuffed shot fell to Schlupp and the midfielder swivelled before firing high into the net.

There was little response by the visitors, who required a point and results elsewhere to go their way to secure a Europa League place – Wolves losing at Chelsea ensured that happened. They rarely threatened a weakened Palace back four which included Cheikhou Kouyate as a centre-back.

Instead, it was Palace who had the better chances late on. Ayew fired wide with his left foot before Dann headed wide from a free-kick with the Eagles’ best chance.