Crystal Palace Under-21s concluded the first phase of the Premier League 2 in style, securing a commanding 5-0 victory over league leaders Tottenham Hotspur on Monday evening at the VBS Community Stadium.
The star of the night was English-born Ghanaian winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who scored a hat-trick, while Roshaun Mathurin and Vonnte Williams also contributed with a goal each.
The Eagles made three changes to their lineup, with David Ozoh, Rak-Sakyi, and Dylan Reid coming in. The duo of Rak-Sakyi and Daniel Imray showed early promise down the right flank, threatening Spurs' defense.
The deadlock was broken in the 25th minute when Mathurin converted a penalty. Just four minutes later, Rak-Sakyi doubled the lead. Palace goalkeeper Joe Whitworth denied English-born Ghanaian youngster Rio Kyerematen's attempt from a tight angle, ensuring the Eagles maintained their two-goal advantage.
Rak-Sakyi scored his second and Palace's third just before the half-time whistle, taking the score to 3-0 at the break.
The second half began with a bang as Williams scored his first goal of the season just 16 seconds after the restart. Rak-Sakyi completed his hat-trick on the hour mark, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Eagles.
Despite late efforts from Akinwale, Mathurin, and Gibbard to add a sixth goal, the match ended 5-0 in favor of Crystal Palace.