Match Preview: Crystal Palace vs Sunderland Women

By Maizie Berry

After seeing their promotion hopes disappear last week, Sunderland Women’s attention now turns to Crystal Palace, facing off against the Eagles this Sunday. 

Crystal Palace currently sit top of the league, three points above Charlton, meaning even a point would secure Palace’s promotion. However, Palace’s huge 22-goal difference means it is unlikely the Addicks could claim the Women’s Championship title. 

After last week’s result, Sunderland fell short at home and forfeited the league title and their chance to appear in the 24/25 Women’s Super League. A mistake which most likely crowned this week’s opposition league champions. 

Recent form

The home side are heading into the game with confidence, after claiming four match wins in their last 5 home games. However, they will be missing the league’s top scorer Elise Hughes, due to injury.

Sunderland have claimed three wins out of their last five away fixtures. Emily Scarr hopes to make her way onto the scoresheet after scoring a brace in Sunderland’s latest away fixture. 

Head-to-head

The teams last went head to head in September, where both teams left Eppleton with a point after an equal  1-1 result. In the last 5 ties both teams have come away with a win alongside three matches drawn. 

Team news 

Crystal Palace have confirmed that vital player Elise Hughes suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in their latest game against Lewes. The Welsh forward is to undergo surgery and rehabilitation however she will still be present at Selhurst Park on Sunday.

It will be Sunderland defender Grace McCatty’s final game for the Lasses following her retirement announcement earlier this month. 

Match information

Crystal Palace vs Sunderland, 28th April, 14:00 kick-off at Selhurst Park.

The match will be available to stream live on the FA Player from 2 pm on Sunday.