Steve Coppell's youngsters are putting some overdue smiles on the faces of Palace fans by hauling the team up the First Division table.

Tuesday's 3-2 victory over Ipswich at Selhurst Park virtually laid any lingering relegation fears to rest - and left the Eagles just eight points behind the play-off places.

Clinton Morrison was the hero for Palace with his two second half goals proving too much for second-placed Ipswich.

The visitors had been gifted a 10th minute lead through David Johnson but Palace battled back with a goal either side of half-time.

The equaliser came from Hayden Mullins a minute before the break, and Morrison headed Palace in front after Ipswich keeper Richard Wright had saved from Fan Zhiyi.

Jamie Clapham nodded a 65th minute equaliser for Town but it took just seven minutes for Morrison to restore the lead - forcing the ball home from Andy Linighan's cross.

Last Saturday, the Eagles had the woodwork and some fine saves from Kevin Miller to thank for the 0-0 draw with Bury.

Striker Lee Bradbury later described the draw as a good result. "It's always hard to come here and win and not many teams do," he said.

"We were happy with the point.

"We didn't really create chances or get any crosses in."

Bradbury goes back to one of his old clubs on Saturday when Palace play Portsmouth at Fratton Park.

The former England under 21 star made his name on the south coast with a hatful of goals which prompted Manchester City to take him to Maine Road.

Saturday's match is a clash of the accountants - Pompey are also in dire straits financially and in the hands of administrators.

Pompey, managed by 1966 World Cup winning hero Alan Ball, have been struggling in the league this season - but that is hardly surprising considering the financial constraints Ball has been working with.

That must sound familiar to Steve Coppell!

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