Brighton vs Crystal Palace: The Unexpected Rivalry

Few rivalries in football are as unexpected as Brighton vs. Crystal Palace. Despite the geographical distance between the two clubs, this rivalry has become one of the most interesting in English football, fuelled by years of animosity and unforgettable moments.

With classic clashes and a deep-rooted dislike between the two fan bases, the Brighton vs. Crystal Palace rivalry continues to be one of the most intriguing fixtures in the Premier League calendar.

The Origins of the Brighton vs Crystal Palace Rivalry

Unlike most football rivalries, which stem from local battles or historic city tensions, the Brighton vs. Crystal Palace rivalry emerged in the 1970s.

The animosity can be traced back to a series of intense encounters between the two sides, most notably during the 1976/77 season when both clubs were pushing for promotion from the old Third Division.

The rivalry intensified when Alan Mullery and Terry Venables, two fiercely competitive managers, led their teams into multiple heated clashes. One infamous FA Cup tie that season required three replays before Palace eventually progressed, with Brighton having a crucial goal disallowed under controversial circumstances.

Mullery’s reaction, throwing money on the floor and gesturing towards Palace fans was the catalyst for the hostility that remains to this day.

The Drama of Brighton vs Crystal Palace

Over the years, this fixture has provided no shortage of drama. From late winners to controversial decisions, here are just a few of the standout moments:

• Crystal Palace 1-0 Brighton (1976) – The catalyst to the rivalry, Phil Holder scored the only goal of the game, but there was controversy in the last minute of the match. The referee forced Brighton to retake a penalty for encroachment.
  
  Crystal Palace 3-1 Brighton (2013) – Brighton had high hopes of securing promotion but were stunned at home in the second leg of the play-off semi-final. A Wilfried Zaha brace sent Palace to Wembley, where they secured promotion, leaving Brighton heartbroken.

Brighton 3-1 Crystal Palace (2018) – A chaotic first half saw Brighton score three goals in 17 minutes, including a rare Glenn Murray penalty and a spectacular strike from Florin Andone. Despite Palace pulling one back, Brighton held on for a statement win.

Crystal Palace 1-2 Brighton (2021) – Brighton grabbed a dramatic stoppage-time winner through Neal Maupay, silencing Selhurst Park and igniting celebrations among Seagulls fans.

Brighton 1-1 Crystal Palace (2022) – A match that summed up the rivalry, intense, dramatic, and controversial. Brighton had a penalty saved, saw a goal ruled out by VAR, and then conceded against the run of play, only to equalise late on.

Crystal Palace vs Brighton Head-To-Head Record

The Brighton vs. Crystal Palace rivalry has been evenly contested over the years, with neither club dominating for extended periods.

As of 2025, the two sides have faced each other 111 times in competitive fixtures. Crystal Palace holds a slight advantage with 42 wins, while Brighton has secured 40 victories, and 29 matches have ended in draws.

In recent seasons, the rivalry has remained intense, with closely fought battles and dramatic late goals keeping the fixture as unpredictable as ever.

Experience the Brighton vs Crystal Palace Rivalry

Whether at the Amex Stadium or Selhurst Park, the Brighton vs. Crystal Palace fixture is always a spectacle, filled with passion, drama, and an electric atmosphere.

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Whether you’re entertaining clients, enjoying a special occasion, or simply want an unforgettable matchday experience, Brighton and Crystal Palace hospitality packages ensure a first-class day at the football.

Secure your Brighton hospitality tickets or Crystal Palace VIP tickets today and witness this heated rivalry in ultimate style!