Crystal Palace Football Club, fondly referred to as “The Eagles,” is one of South London’s proudest football institutions. The club has a fascinating legacy rooted in the original Crystal Palace Exhibition building and a lineage stretching as far back as 1861, and in 1905 marks its official professional beginning. Through turbulent decades, including numerous promotions, relegations, and dramatic survival battles, Palace has forged an identity synonymous with resilience, community, and the undying passion of its supporters at Selhurst Park.
From its earliest days playing in local amateur leagues to becoming a consistent force in England’s top divisions, Crystal Palace stats are defined by adaptability and ambition. The club soared to national prominence late in the 20th century, highlighted by a remarkable third-place finish in the old First Division in 1990–91 and two unforgettable FA Cup final appearances that remain carved in South London. Through financial struggles and triumphant returns, “The Palace” stands out for their unique style of play and a special connection to local talent.
Crystal Palace Top Scorers of all time:
The Crystal Palace stats of all-time top scorers list tells the story of legendary players who contributed to the club. Let's look into the Crystal Palace top scorers this season. These Crystal Palace player stats have defined the Crystal Palace's greatest eras, rewriting records and thrilling generations of Palace supporters. Their club stats, goals scored, appearances, and service years showcase the enduring impact of these footballing legends.
Rank
Player
Goals
Appearances
Years Active
1
Peter Simpson
165
195
1929–1935
2
Edwin (Ted) Smith
124
192
1911–1920
3
Ian Wright
117
277
1985–1991
4
Mark Bright
113
286
1986–1992
5
Clinton Morrison
113
316
1997–2002, 2005–2008
6
Dougie Freedman
108
368
1995–1997, 2000–2008
7
George Clarke
106
299
1925–1933
8
Johnny Byrne
101
259
1956–1962, 1967–1968
9
Albert Dawes
92
156
1933–1936, 1938–39
10
Wilfried Zaha
90
458
2010–2013, 2014–2023
Crystal Palace Top Scorers of all time
10. Wilfried Zaha
Wilfried Zaha is one of Crystal Palace top scorers with 90 goals in a remarkable 458 appearances across his two spells (2010-2013, 2014-2023). Crystal Palace stats tell that His electrifying dribbling, ability to beat defenders one-on-one, and knack for producing moments of magic single-handedly turned games. Zaha was the talisman, the main attacking threat for years.
09. Albert Dawes
92 goals in just 156 appearances from 1933-1936 and 1938-1939. One of Crystal Palace top scorers this season, Albert Dawes, managed an impressive striking efficiency with a goals-per-game ratio of 0.59, highlighting his clinical nature in front of goal. Dawes was a pure finisher, making the most of his opportunities.
08. Johnny Byrne
Johnny Byrne tallied 101 goals in 259 appearances for the club, split across 1956-1962 and 1967-1968. His flair and potent shot from distance, and immense technical ability made him a standout performer. Byrne's brilliance often breached stubborn defences, making him a joy to watch.
07. George Clarke
George Clarke, a significant figure in early Palace history, notched 106 goals in 299 outings between 1925 and 1933. His longevity and consistent goal production during that era are noteworthy. Clarke was a reliable goal scorer who played a crucial role in the team's attacking setup for nearly a decade.
06. Dougie Freedman
Dougie Freedman scored 108 goals in 368 appearances across his two periods at the club (1995-1997, 2000-2008). Crystal Palace stats say his fox-in-the-box instincts and ability to score with both feet and head made him a constant threat. Freedman's dedication and clutch goals solidified his legendary status among the Selhurst.
05. Clinton Morrison
Clinton Morrison contributed 113 goals in 316 games over two stints, from 1997-2002 and 2005-2008. His versatility and direct running often stretched opposition defences. Morrison was renowned for his work rate off the ball and his knack for popping up with vital goals, especially during key promotion campaigns.
04. Mark Bright
Mark Bright formed a lethal partnership with Ian Wright, burying 113 goals in 286 appearances from 1986 to 1992. A formidable target man, His aerial prowess and ability to hold up the ball were pivotal, creating space and opportunities for his teammates. Crystal Palace stats tell that Bright was a classic centre-forward, consistently finding the back of the net with his powerful strikes.
03. Ian Wright
Ian Wright, Crystal Palace top scorer, became a Selhurst Park icon, bagging 117 goals in just 277 matches for the Eagles between 1985 and 1991. His impact was immediate, showcased by his crucial goals during the 1990 FA Cup run, including a brace in the final. Wright's explosive pace and instinctive finishing made him a nightmare for opposition defenders.
02. Edwin Smith
Edwin "Ted" Smith slots in as Crystal Palace's second-highest scorer with 124 goals from 192 appearances across his two spells from 1911 to 1920. His return of 0.65 goals per game highlights his persistent threat in the final third. Smith was a consistent performer, a reliable presence up top, crucial in an earlier chapter of the club's history.
01. Peter Simpson
All-time Crystal Palace top scorer Simpson. He racked up an astonishing 165 goals in just 195 outings between 1929 and 1935, boasting an incredible goals-per-game ratio of 0.85. A genuine goal poacher. His prolificacy was unmatched; he netted a staggering 46 goals in a single season (1930/31) and still holds the club record for most hat-tricks with 19. A truly clinical finisher of his era.
Crystal Palace Statistics - Competition-wise
Crystal Palace stats reveal a long journey through English and European football's diverse competitions, marked by memorable highs and invaluable experience gained. In the Premier League, the best-ever finish is 3rd place in 1990–91 (then the First Division). Since 2013, they have consistently retained Premier League status, peaking at 10th in 2023–24.
In EFL, Crystal Palace boasts several promotions, most recently achieving Premier League return through the 2013 play-offs. Crystal Palace stats say two FA Cup finals, 1990 and 2016, stand as proud moments despite defeat. Palace fans recall these runs fondly for heroic upsets and high drama. League Cup (EFL Cup): The club has reached the semi-finals, showcasing ability in knock-out tournaments as well as the league. Crystal Palace stats say their only taste of European football came in the 1998 UEFA Intertoto Cup, underscoring the club’s gradual ascent on the continental stage.