DOUGIE Freedman admitted it was good to finally get what Crystal Palace deserved after they recorded their first win of the new year with an emphatic 4-0 success over Watford.

The Eagles boss believes Palace have been unfortunate not to come away with all three points earlier in the calendar year but was delighted with the threat his side posed going forward.

“We’ve been performing fantastically well over the last three or four games and our performances have merited wins,” said Freeman.

“It’s pleasing to get what you deserve and we certainly got what we deserved today.

“Watford gave it everything they’ve got and we had to defend very well at times and play as a unit.

“But I felt there were parts of that game where we were outstanding in terms of our attacking display and when we attack like that we can open up most defences in this division.”

Saturday was the first time the Eagles have scored four goals at Selhurst since their 4-1 win over Portsmouth on September 14, 2010. Wilfried Zaha set the home side on their way after 20 minutes before a brace from Chris Martin and a rare goal from Kagisho Dikgacoi completed the rout.

Freedman believes Zaha still has a lot to learn and will take a couple more seasons before he is the complete all-round player.

“I'm pleased to see Wilfried getting in the right areas,” the manager added.

“He is a working progress who wants to get better and is now dedicating his life to being a professional.

“Zaha is not just a guy that turns up on a Saturday afternoon and entertains the crowd.

“He’s got wonderful naturally ability but he needs to be coached and needs to understand the game.

“It’s a wonderful joy to work with young kids who want to get better but it will take time and I’m sure in a few years time he will be the finished player.”

The Eagles took advantage of some poor defending from the Hornets and while it was their first win in 2012, Freedman has been impressed with the way his players have reacted in recent games.

He added: “We don’t get beat and we refuse to leak goals so it was a case of sticking to what we have been doing.

“It was pleasing to see the players didn’t have any negative thoughts about when the next win would come and just stuck to what they do best.

“The wins will come, I am convinced of that.”

Returning defender Dean Moxey was scheduled to make his comeback but was ruled out late Friday night due to illness.

“Dean Moxey could have played today, he was fit and definitely part of my plans but he felt unwell,” confirmed Freedman.

Follow us on Twitter @NewsShopperSprt