Patrick Vieira’s verdict after Crystal Palace pick up point against ‘excellent’ Brighton
Patrick Vieira was pleased that his Crystal Palace side managed to pick up a point in their 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Eagles boss also described the Seagulls’ performance at Selhurst Park as “excellent”.
Pervis Estupinan thought he gave Brighton the lead on the half-hour mark after Pascal Gross jinked past Marc Guehi and James Tomkins, teeing up the Ecuadorian defender to dig a shot out from under his feet and beyond Vicente Guaita.
But VAR ruled the goal out for offside.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side eventually took the lead in the 63rd minute when Solly March evaded Tyrick Mitchell and met Estupinan’s cross at the back post.
Picture : Keith Gillard
Palace levelled six minutes later when Robert Sanchez dropped the ball from a Michael Olise free-kick and James Tomkins pounced to head the ball into the empty net.
World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister had a chance late on to win it for the Seagulls, but the Argentine midfielder could not direct his shot from inside the area beyond Vicente Guaita.
Brighton had 75 per cent possession and seven shots on target. The South Londoners only managed one attempt on target during the 90 minutes.
“To be honest with you, I’m satisfied with the point,” said the Palace boss.
“The game was really challenging and difficult – Brighton were excellent today.
Picture : Keith Gillard
“We needed to be well organised and well disciplined defensively, not to give them that space that they needed to express themselves.
“I’m really satisfied and happy with the organisation we had today. The discipline that we showed, in the end, allowed us to get into the game.
“I’m really pleased with the point we had today.
“It’s important for the fans not to lose the derby game, but you have to recognise the quality of the team we played against today.
“I can understand why their manager will be frustrated because they created a lot of chances, but I’m happy and satisfied with the point.
“We stuck together during the difficult period and made it really difficult for them. We managed to score that goal at the end.
“It’s good for us.”
PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD