Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage praised his side’s character after they beat Nottingham Forest 3-1, ending a run of 12 Premier League meetings without a victory against them. Palace’s previous record in those matches was eight draws and four defeats.
Sage said Palace had found the game difficult despite securing the result, with Forest having studied their opponents carefully. He acknowledged that his team did not produce a perfect performance but highlighted the unity and determination within the squad.
The Palace manager also pointed to a crucial save from Benitez, which prevented the score from becoming 2-0 and kept the game within reach. Sage regarded that moment as important in allowing Palace to remain in contention before completing the win.
Sage said the result demonstrated that teams sometimes have to win through resilience rather than complete control. He also stressed that every member of the squad has an important role to play over the course of a long season.
As a reward for the victory, the Palace players are set to have a day off. Sage, however, said the staff must remain focused on Lyon, which is now the next priority.
