Dwight McNeil described the atmosphere at Besiktas Park as unlike anything he had previously experienced after Crystal Palace’s 2-2 draw in Istanbul.
The 26-year-old made his first start since the opening day of the season as Palace were met by a spectacular pre-match display and sustained vocal support from their travelling fans. The match itself lived up to the occasion, with Palace creating the majority of the territory and chances before being held by two clinical finishes from the hosts.
McNeil felt the performance represented a strong response from Palace after Sunday’s match. He was particularly impressed by the supporters who had travelled to Turkey, highlighting the backing they had provided throughout a demanding week and thanking them for their continued commitment.
Palace took control for long periods and recovered well after conceding late in the first half. They moved 2-1 ahead after the interval, but Besiktas found another opportunity to level the contest. McNeil nevertheless viewed the display as a positive step and stressed the need to carry those improvements into Sunday’s home meeting with Newcastle.
The midfielder also explained that the tactical plan involved placing two attacking midfielders around Jean-Philippe Mateta. He was pleased with how Palace executed that approach at times and said he was delighted to be back in the starting XI, especially in such an intense environment.
Having not featured regularly this season, McNeil is now looking to build rhythm and confidence through further minutes. He reiterated the importance of Palace’s supporters, whose backing he considers a major part of the club, as the Eagles prepare for their next challenge at home.
