London derby victory ´is the benchmark´, says Palace boss Glasner

Oliver Glasner asserted that Crystal Palace’s 1-0 victory over Tottenham represented “the benchmark” for his side going forward.

Palace secured their first three points of the season after a torrid run of eight games without a win at the start of the campaign.

Jean-Philippe Mateta secured the winner in the 31st minute and Palace could have had more with Eberechi Eze seeing a goal ruled out for offside and being denied a potential penalty shout in the second-half.

While the pressure had been mounting on Glasner after a run of three straight defeats, victory could ease the scrutiny.

“It helps all of us if we play in that way. We are a very good team and it’s very difficult to beat us. Getting this response, this game helps us,” Glasner told BBC Sport.

Victory #CPFC // #NoRoomForRacism

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) October 27, 2024

We have to show it again in three days against Villa. This is the benchmark. You can score and concede, this is football.”

Palace managed 14 shots throughout the game, with six of those on target. It was more than their traditionally attacking opponents could muster as they put just three shots on target and caused few problems for the hosts.

While Glasner’s side were unable to capitalise further on their dominance, he was delighted with the performance.

“Congratulations to team, to the players for how they played today with passion and courage. They showed it on the pitch against a good Tottenham team,” he added.

“The players took it as a chance and every single phase we played great and moved the ball. A very good performance today.

“I mentioned before the game that if we were convinced changing the formation was the solution then we would do it immediately. Tottenham tried everything late on. The players did it amazing and that is why we won this game.”

Eberechi Eze looked back to his best, as he notched the second-highest expected goals (xG) total on his team (0.16), only beaten by goalscorer Mateta (0.24).

He contributed the assist with a skilful flick to direct Daniel Munoz’s cross into the path of Mateta. He also took the most shots (four) and had the most touches in the box (seven) of both sides.

“I think we see the old Eze all season. He’s been a bit unlucky. We know he is technically unbelievable,” Glasner said.

“He scored a great goal but was offside. I think it’s a penalty but I didn’t see it on TV. If he has a free shot then he shoots so I don’t know why he would lie down on the grass.”