Jørgen Strand Larsen said he felt relieved after converting from the penalty spot in Crystal Palace’s emphatic 4-0 Europa League win over Lech Poznan.
The Norway international confidently struck the ball into the roof of the net before half-time, giving Palace a commanding advantage against the Polish champions. The goal was particularly significant for Strand Larsen, who had missed his previous two penalties.
The spot-kick was awarded after Yéremy Pino was fouled in the area. Pino appeared keen to take responsibility, but Strand Larsen stepped forward and explained afterwards that he needed the opportunity to restore his confidence. He added that Pino understood the decision, describing the Palace winger as his “brother”.
The penalty was Strand Larsen’s fourth goal in three games. He also scored twice in Palace’s Carabao Cup victory over Middlesbrough last week, and has now found the net in three different competitions this season.
Palace had already taken control through Pino and Chris Richards before Strand Larsen’s penalty. Pino opened the scoring after capitalising on loose defending, while Richards headed in the second goal as the Eagles produced an impressive display from the outset.
Strand Larsen also believes the result showed that Palace are beginning to adapt to life under new manager Pierre Sage. While he acknowledged that the approach feels different, he said the team’s performance demonstrated how effective it can be when everything comes together. Palace now turn their attention to Sunday’s fixture, with the forward insisting the squad must aim to secure another victory.
