Ahead of Saturday’s U18 Premier League South clash with West Ham United, in-form Crystal Palace Under-18 striker David Angibeaud reflected on the narrow defeat to Leicester City, the tight title race, and the challenge awaiting the young Eagles...
The match will be streamed LIVE on Palace TV+ on Saturday (28th February), with coverage beginning at 10:45 GMT ahead of a 11:00 GMT kick-off – click HERE to find out more and subscribe.
Supporters can follow live commentary on our Academy X (Twitter) page, with a full match report and reaction published shortly after full-time in our Academy news section.
Highlights and extended reaction will be available on Palace TV+.
We have to stick together
—David Angibeaud
Despite dominating possession against Leicester and creating several clear openings – with Angibeaud, Donte Martin and Dylan Monk all going close – Palace were frustrated by a disciplined defensive display and a string of fine saves from 'keeper Leo Stretton. A late onslaught followed, but the equaliser would not come.
Reflecting on the result, Angibeaud said: "It was a tough game. I think the main difference was that they fought more than us on the day. A few of us looked tired, mentally as well as physically.
"We’re getting to that stage of the season where fatigue can creep in, but that’s when we have to stick together. We’ve got some really important games coming up."
The defeat leaves Palace third in the U18 Premier League South, level on 28 points with West Ham and separated only by goal difference. Tottenham Hotspur sit second on 34 points, while runaway leaders Chelsea have 36 and a game in hand.
On whether the squad is conscious of the table, Angibeaud added: "Of course we know where we are, but we have to take it one game at a time. If you focus too much on the table, it can weigh on you. We just need to attack each game properly."
On a personal level, I’m grateful
—David Angibeaud
Taking stock of his own season, the forward was balanced in his assessment.
"Personally, it’s been good, but I feel like in the last few games I can give more. That’s normal – every player goes through phases. The focus is always the next match."
Angibeaud has registered 10 goals and three assists in 22 appearances under Javier Alonso. After breaking into the side in October with a substitute appearance against Fulham, he quickly established himself – at one stage scoring 10 goals in as many games.
"On a personal level, I’m grateful. This time last season I wasn’t in the squad, so to be where I am now means a lot. I’m thankful to God and the staff, but I know I’ve got to keep working. It’s only going to get tougher from here."
Even though we lost, it helped us grow as a team
—David Angibeaud
West Ham arrive in strong form despite a recent setback, having collected more points than any other U18 Premier League side across the previous ten-match stretch. They also remain competitive in cup competitions.
Looking ahead to the contest, Angibeaud said: "Last time was tight – we lost 3–2 and scored late. If we approach it with the right mindset like we do in the big games, I’m confident. For me, that game was part of building momentum. Even though we lost, it helped us grow as a team."
And with the run-in intensifying, he made a final call to supporters: "It’s important we feel that support. Having the fans behind us makes a difference."
The match will be streamed LIVE on Palace TV+ on Saturday (28th February), with coverage beginning at 10:45 GMT ahead of a 11:00 GMT kick-off – click HERE to find out more and subscribe.*
Supporters can follow live commentary on our Academy X (Twitter) page, with a full match report and reaction published shortly after full-time in our Academy news section.*
Highlights and extended reaction will be available on Palace TV+.
Crystal Palace U18s v West Ham U18s
