Crystal Palace, fondly known as The Eagles, boasts a rich and vibrant history in the English Premier League (EPL). Formed in 1905, this team from South London has danced between the top two tiers of English football, with their latest stint in the Premier League starting in 2013. Their feisty performances and passionate fans have been integral to the EPL’s appeal.
Crystal Palace’s journey has been characterized by grit and tenacity, with notable highlights including a third-place finish in the old First Division in 1991 and an FA Cup final in 1990. The team also prides itself on some significant upsets against top-tier teams, embodying the unpredictable spirit of football.
The Eagles’ Alumni: From South London to the World
The Eagles have been a nurturing ground for some notable talents in the world of football. Ian Wright, a legend in English football, started his professional career with Crystal Palace before making a name for himself at Arsenal. The club also served as a stepping stone for Victor Moses, who played for Chelsea and Inter Milan, and Wilfried Zaha, who had a stint with Manchester United before returning to his boyhood club.
Friends and Foes: Palace’s Rivalries in and Beyond the EPL
Football is nothing without its rivalries, and Crystal Palace has plenty to offer. Their most fierce is with Brighton & Hove Albion, a rivalry that transcends geographical boundaries and is steeped in competitive history. However, in the EPL, Palace shares intense rivalries with fellow London clubs such as Charlton Athletic and Millwall, games that are always marked with anticipation and excitement.
Beyond the EPL, Palace has had memorable encounters in the FA Cup and the League Cup with clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United. In European competitions, although less frequent, the club has squared off against teams such as Inter Milan, adding international flavor to their rivalries.
Your Home at Selhurst Park: Seats, Scenes, and Tickets
Nestled in the heart of South London, Selhurst Park has been the Eagles’ fortress since 1924. This stadium is famous for its electric atmosphere, especially in the Holmesdale Road Stand. This stand, although not the most affordable (with ticket prices ranging from £45-£55), provides an unrivaled experience with the most passionate fans.
For those looking for a cheaper option, the Arthur Wait stand is a good choice, with prices starting at around £35. If you fancy a splurge, the Main Stand offers the most comfortable seating and the best views, with tickets reaching £65.
Ticket Tactics: The Best Way to Watch the Eagles
Getting your hands on Crystal Palace tickets is simpler than you think. You can buy tickets directly from the club’s website or from trusted online vendors. Remember, Palace’s games, especially the London derbies, sell out quickly, so it’s best to be quick off the mark.
So, are you ready to experience the roar of Selhurst Park and the thrill of Crystal Palace’s energetic football? Grab your ticket and be a part of the English Premier League’s legacy, where every game is a story waiting to unfold.
Get the 411
- Unique Origin: Crystal Palace was originally formed by employees of The Crystal Palace, a massive iron and glass exhibition structure located in Hyde Park, London. This makes their origin story quite unique in English football.
- The Eagle Mascot: The team’s nickname, “The Eagles,” comes from their club badge and mascot, an Eagle. But it wasn’t always this way. Prior to 1973, their nickname was “The Glaziers” referencing the glass structure of their namesake, The Crystal Palace. They switched to “The Eagles” and updated their club badge to reflect a more aggressive identity.
- Manager Merry-go-round: In the 2017/18 season, Crystal Palace set a Premier League record by becoming the first team to lose their first seven games without scoring a goal. The dismal start led to the dismissal of their manager Frank de Boer just four games into the season, marking one of the shortest managerial stints in the history of the league.
- Cult Heroes: Crystal Palace has been home to several cult heroes who might not be global superstars but have endeared themselves to the Palace faithful. Players like Julian Speroni, a goalkeeper who was with the club for 15 years, and Dougie Freedman, a striker-turned-manager, are fondly remembered by the fans.
- Youth Academy Success: Crystal Palace’s youth academy has a solid reputation for producing top-notch talents. Notable graduates include Victor Moses, Wilfried Zaha, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The latter two were sold to Manchester United, earning the club significant transfer fees.
- “Glad All Over”: The club’s anthem is “Glad All Over” by the Dave Clark Five, a British pop-rock group from the 60s. It’s played before home games at Selhurst Park and is often sung by the fans during the matches.
