Here's what we learned from Palace's 3-1 defeat at The Amex
Bad Bad Bad Day at the Office
This was without doubt Palace’s worst game of the season. Roy Hodgson’s men, despite sitting in the depths of the league have always put up an fight and created chances. At The Amex they did not do that. I’m sure Mr Hodgson will have some choice words for his men who were second best to everything.
READ: Player Ratings from Palace's 3-1 defeat
Laurel ‘n’ Hardy, plus one
Mamadou Sakho, James Tomkins and Luka Milivojevic. Fine players on their day but this was one to forget. Football is a team game, but individually the captain and the centre-backs cost their side. Sakho’s miss-timed header in the opening moments set the tone and Tomkins and Milivojevic proceeded to out do each other.
Sympathise with Zaha
One of the finest players in the league needs protection. Kevin Friend offered him zero. Some call him a diver but if he doesn’t go to ground he won’t get the decision.
A figure of abuse from fans, one must applaud how he doesn’t rise to the bait.
VAR is needed...now
Officials need help. Friend needs that extra hand, specifically when making such important decisions as the opening penalty and the sending off.
Has the power to change the game and with the penalty decision, it did, sadly.
READ: Crystal Palace Christmas Calendar: Day 4- Captain Fantastic
Hughton has created a real outfit
Losing Glen Murray in the first half was a huge blow, but such is the strength and depth in the Brighton squad now, he was barely missed. Yes this was a derby, yes it was a home game, but Chris Hughton has got each player playing for the badge.
With the stadium and the support, the city is set up for some big nights ahead with this man at the helm.
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