Fans told: Don't blame Akinbiyi

Crystal Palace goalkeeper Matt Clarke has pleaded with the club's fans not to blame their failure to reach the First Division promotion play-offs on Ade Akinbiyi.

As Birmingham, managed by former Palace boss Steve Bruce climbed into fourth place with a 3-1 win over Crewe last night, Clarke defended Akinbiyi's record of one goal in 12 games since his arrival from Leicester two months ago.

Palace have struggled since manager Trevor Francis paid £2.2 million for Akinbiyi and the Palace faithful have continued to barrack their misfiring striker.

Clarke said: "The players are just as frustrated as the fans that we've failed to do the business.

"But it's not Ade's fault. He offers more to the team than fans see on a Saturday afternoon."

Dons face harsh facts over Davis