Crystal Palace Under-18s goalkeeper Jack Mason sat down this week to reflect on the highs of the season so far, the challenge of biding his time, and the tight-knit “GK Union” at the Academy.
This game will also be streamed LIVE on Palace TV+ on Saturday morning (13th December, 12:00 GMT) -click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!
Can’t watch live? Stay up to date with live commentary on our Academy X (Twitter) page and look out for the full match report and reaction on our Academy news section shortly after the final whistle.
We need to take this chance
—Jack Mason
Javier Alonso’s side remain perched at the top of the U18 Premier League South, level on 21 points with Chelsea and last season’s treble winners Aston Villa.
Palace’s superior goal difference keeps them ahead of Villa, while nothing currently separates the young Eagles and the Blues, who both boast +18. With defeats few and far between, the mood in the camp is buoyant – something Mason admits has lifted everyone.
“The season's been good. I think the team's done really well – we’re top at the moment so it’s a really good start. There's not much to complain about,” he said.
“A few of the losses were last-minute goals, a bit unlucky. We could’ve probably won them, but that's football. Overall, it’s looking good.”
Despite sitting at the summit, several of Palace’s closest challengers still have games in hand. For Mason, that makes Saturday’s final fixture of 2025 against Norwich all the more important.
“We do need to take this chance. Ending the year with a win gives you a lift going into the new year. Other teams have competitions and games in hand, so we’ve got to expand our lead – and I think we will.”
The GK Union is definitely a thing
—Jack Mason
Mason has been part of every U18 matchday squad so far but has had only two starts – stepping in when first-choice ‘keeper Harry Whitworth was sidelined through injury. For a second-year scholar fighting for a professional contract, the wait hasn’t been easy.
“It was difficult at the start. You go into it thinking: 'This has got to be the year to prove it.’ When you don't play, it’s hard to prove anything – you can train well but matches are what count.
“I was performing in friendlies and just waiting for the opportunity. I think I'm taking it well so far. Just keep going, keep pushing.”
Among Whitworth, Thiago Speroni, Lucca Benetton and himself, Mason says the camaraderie behind the scenes is genuine – even with only one spot up for grabs.
“The GK Union is definitely a thing. Everyone’s good with each other, but when it comes down to it, you’re all fighting for one place. Still, everyone’s sound.”
It was relieving, to be honest
—Jack Mason
Mason’s first start of the 25/26 campaign came in the thrilling 4-2 win over Southampton, a top-of-the-table clash that meant more to him than most realise.
“It was relieving, to be honest. As a second year fighting for a pro, it feels like it’s now or never. To finally play – and take the chance – felt good.”
He followed that with a clean sheet in the Youth Cup third-round win over Bradford, played under the lights at Selhurst Park – an experience he won’t forget soon.
“One in a million. A great experience. It was my first time playing there – I joined just after the boys played there previously.
“I just can’t wait to keep going in the competition and hopefully fill the stadium even more.”
If we stick to Javi’s game plan, it usually works
—Jack Mason
Turning attention to Saturday’s opponents, Mason insists Norwich will provide a real test.
“They’re a good side. People underestimate teams and they shouldn’t – they’re in the Premier League South for a reason. It’ll be difficult, but if we stick to Javi’s game plan, it usually works.”
And on Alonso’s influence from a ‘keeper’s perspective?
“He’s really good with me. First 10–15 minutes we go longer, then after that it’s ‘play what you see’.
“He’s not shouting if something goes wrong – just get the next one right. He’s encouraging, that’s the main thing.”
Finally, on his plans for Christmas, Mason keeps it simple: “Golf and family – that’s it.”
This game will also be streamed LIVE on Palace TV+ on Saturday morning (29th November, 11:00 GMT) -click HERE to learn more about Palace TV+ and subscribe today!
Can’t watch live? Stay up to date with live commentary on our Academy X (Twitter) page and look out for the full match report on our Academy news section shortly after the final whistle.
Crystal Palace U18s v Norwich City U18s