The 2004-05 campaign delivered a season of heartbreaking drama for Crystal Palace as The Eagles battled but ultimately succumbed to a crushing 18th-place finish and relegation from the Premier League. Leading the charge was the sensational striker Andrew Johnson, whose 21 league goals, making him the highest-scoring Englishman in the division, proved a heroic yet insufficient effort. Despite manager Iain Dowie's passionate efforts and a dramatic final-day draw against rivals Charlton Athletic, the club fell short, resulting in a devastating return to the Championship and marking a painful but defining chapter in their history. The season also saw young winger Wayne Routledge impress with 10 assists before his immediate departure.. The 2005-06 campaign was a season of soaring ambition and ultimate heartbreak for Crystal Palace as The Eagles clinched a 6th-place finish in the Championship, securing a play-off spot for an immediate return to the top flight. Spearheading the charge was their talisman, Andrew Johnson, who had stayed despite relegation and whose 15 league goals proved vital. The promotion dream died abruptly with a comprehensive play-off semi-final loss to Watford, which triggered the departure of manager Iain Dowie and the emotional sale of star striker Johnson to Everton, marking a pivotal end to the push for the Premier League.