The Women's Super League has opened an investigation after Crystal Palace made four separate substitution changes during their 1-0 victory over Everton on Sunday, exceeding the competition's permitted limit.
A formal statement from the league confirmed that Palace "breached" the regulations governing substitution opportunities. Under WSL rules, clubs are restricted to a maximum of three substitution windows per match, yet the Eagles utilised four distinct occasions to alter their squad.
The substitutions took place in the 62nd, 83rd, 90th and 97th minute of the match held at the Borough Sports Ground. Lexi Lloyd-Smith scored the decisive goal that secured the victory for the promoted side.
Palace's promotion to the WSL earlier in 2026 marked a significant milestone for the club, and they secured their place in the top flight alongside Birmingham City after a dramatic final day in the Championship.
The investigation will involve both Crystal Palace and Everton, alongside Pro Ref, the body responsible for referee operations in the WSL. Both clubs have been asked to provide their accounts of the incident.
What penalties could Palace face?
WSL regulations do not automatically prescribe a specific punishment for breaches of substitution rules. However, any confirmed violation could be escalated to an independent tribunal, which holds authority to impose a range of sanctions. These could include a formal warning, a financial fine, a deduction of league points, or other sporting penalties deemed appropriate by the tribunal.
What happens next?
The investigation is ongoing, with both clubs cooperating with the league and match officials to establish the full circumstances of how the breach occurred. The outcome and any resulting disciplinary action will be determined once the inquiry concludes.
